Shimano

105 BR-R7000 Brake Caliper

Shimano's road brakes are always well regarded as having some of the smoothest operation and powerful on the market feel and the new 105 BR-R7000 Brake Caliper receives the same trickle-down technology that makes Ultegra and Dura-Ace the leaders of the pack. The new brakes are redesigned and borrow the same new pivoting mechanism for a linear feel that provides an incredibly consistent power distribution from the lever to the rim's braking surface.

As with the range-topping Dura-Ace BR-9100 Brake Calipers, Shimano builds the 105 model with a true dual-pivot design, deviating from the older versions using the mounting bolt as a second pivot. Instead, the 7000 has a rear-mounting plate with a center bolt for frame attachment. The brake arms have a slimmer profile and more rigidity contributing to more positive braking. The housing stop and quick release still reside off to one side and the barrel adjuster makes it easy to take up the slack due to worn pads or for personal preference.

That arm placement, now closer to the rim, drastically increases modulation and will have you questioning the merits of disc brakes. Actuation from the levers is very light especially when coupled with Shimano's low-friction cables and housing. Best of all, it will now accommodate tires up to 28mm wide.

The smoother operation, positive modulation, and a low profile, sleek design have the new 105 calipers nipping at the heels of its higher-priced siblings. The Shimano 105 Brake Calipers are available in Black and available as a front or rear and are optimized for the newest batch of 11-speed Shimano road levers.