Best Rim Bike Brakes of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Rim bike brakes are an essential component of any bicycle, providing reliable stopping power when needed. They work by pressing brake pads against the rim of the wheel, creating friction and slowing down the bike. Rim brakes come in various types, including caliper brakes, V-brakes, and cantilever brakes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. While disc brakes have gained popularity in recent years, rim brakes remain a popular choice for their lightweight design and ease of maintenance. Investing in high-quality rim bike brakes can greatly improve the safety and performance of your bike.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Magura HS33 R Bicycle Brake with 2-Finger Lever Cover #TOP 1
Magura HS33 R Bicycle Brake with 2-Finger Lever
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Magura HS11 Easy Mount Hydraulic Rim Brake Cover #TOP 2
Magura HS11 Easy Mount Hydraulic Rim Brake
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Magura HS11 EVO2 Hydraulic Rim Brake Cover #TOP 3
Magura HS11 EVO2 Hydraulic Rim Brake
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rim Bike Brakes

#TOP 1

Magura HS33 R Bicycle Brake with 2-Finger Lever

2700246
Black
2-Finger Hebel
Magura HS33 R Bicycle Brake with 2-Finger Lever Cover
Magura HS33 R Rim Brake, Bicycle Brake, Black, 2-Finger Lever

The Magura HS33 R Brake offers impressive features that enhance your cycling experience. With a 2,000 mm cable length, it provides flexibility during installation, allowing you to set up your brakes just the way you like. The improved braking performance, which is 5% higher, ensures you can stop more efficiently when you need to. Additionally, it is lighter by 15 grams, making it easier to handle and reducing overall bike weight. Its modern radial design not only looks stylish but also contributes to its performance and functionality.

What We Like
Improved braking performance
Lighter than previous models
Flexible cable length
Stylish modern design

Magura HS11 Easy Mount Hydraulic Rim Brake

2701252
Black
standard size
Magura HS11 Easy Mount Hydraulic Rim Brake Cover
Magura HS11 Easy Mount Hydraulic Rim Brake Bicycle Brake, Black, One Size

The Magura HS11 Brake is designed for trekking and city use, providing excellent performance in various conditions. Its handle and lever are made from Carbotecture, which ensures durability and a lightweight feel, making it easier for you to control your bike. The aluminium pliers offer strength and reliability, enhancing your braking experience. With its hydraulic system, you can enjoy smooth and responsive braking, boosting your confidence on the road or trail.

What We Like
Lightweight Carbotecture materials
Durable aluminium construction
Smooth hydraulic braking
Suitable for trekking and city
#TOP 3

Magura HS11 EVO2 Hydraulic Rim Brake

2701214
Black
standard size
Magura HS11 EVO2 Hydraulic Rim Brake Cover
Magura HS11 EVO2 hydraulic rim brake, bicycle brake, black, one size

The Magura HS11 Brake features a 3-finger lever, designed to provide you with a comfortable grip and improved leverage while braking. Its sleek black cover not only looks stylish but also offers added durability. You can conveniently use this brake on either the left or right side, giving you flexibility in your setup. The EVO2 attachment ensures a secure fit, enhancing your overall riding experience. With its single brake design, it is ideal for those seeking simplicity and efficiency in their bicycle braking system.

What We Like
Comfortable 3-finger lever
Durable black cover
Left/right compatibility
Secure EVO2 attachment
Simple single brake design
#TOP 4

SHIMANO 105 BR-5800L Skate Holder for Aluminium Rims

Y88T98020
Black
One Size
SHIMANO 105 BR-5800L Skate Holder for Aluminium Rims Cover
SHIMANO 105 BR-5800L SKATE HOLDER FOR ALUMINUM RIMS, Black

The SHIMANO 105 Skate Holder is designed specifically for aluminium rims, ensuring compatibility with various models including BR-5800 and BR-5700. Its compact size, with package dimensions of just 2.0 cm in each direction, makes it easy to store and transport. With a good dosage, it provides ample performance for your braking needs, enhancing your cycling experience. This product, made in China, is an ideal choice for those looking to improve their bike's braking efficiency.

What We Like
Designed for aluminium rims
Compact package size
Good dosage performance
Compatible with multiple models
#TOP 5

KCNC CB9 Road Caliper Brake Set for Wide Wheels

KCNC
KCNC CB9 Road Caliper Brake Set for Wide Wheels Cover
KCNC CB9 Road Caliper Brake Set Front and Rear Designed For Road Bike Wide Wheel Rim, Black, SK2044

The KCNC CB9 Brake Set is designed specifically for road bikes with wide wheel rims. Its linkage activated brake system is particularly useful in muddy or dirt conditions, ensuring reliable performance no matter the weather. Made from durable AL6061 material, the brake arms and parts are built to last, while the SUS centre mounting axle and bolts provide sturdy support. The included SwissStop BXP brake pads are ideal for alloy rims, offering superior stopping power and control for your rides.

What We Like
Effective in muddy conditions
Durable construction materials
High-quality brake pads included
Designed for wide wheel rims

MAKELEN V Shape Bike Brake Set

MAKELEN
Black
MAKELEN V Shape Bike Brake Set Cover
MAKELEN Bike Rim Brakes Sets V Shape Brake with Steel Calipers Aluminum Lever and Cable Brake V Type Replacement Set for City Bike BMX Bike Road Bike

The MAKELEN Bike Brake Set is designed for a variety of bicycles, including city and BMX bikes. Its adjustable brake pads ensure a perfect fit, allowing you to fine-tune your braking system for optimal performance. Made from high-quality aluminium alloy, it offers durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions, giving you confidence in your brakes. The easy installation process means you can quickly replace old brakes without hassle, ensuring your bike is always ready for use.

What We Like
Durable aluminium alloy construction
Adjustable brake pad height
Easy to install
Suitable for various bike types
#TOP 7

SHIMANO Alivio T4000 Front V Brake Caliper

BRT4000FS
Silver
Front
SHIMANO Alivio T4000 Front V Brake Caliper Cover
SHIMANO Men's Shimano Rim Alivio T4000 V Brake Caliper, Silver, Front UK

The SHIMANO Alivio T4000 Brake features a durable aluminium brake caliper that ensures reliability during your rides. With 107 mm brake arms, you benefit from improved clearance to the mudguard, allowing for better performance in muddy conditions. The adjustable spring tension lets you customise the braking feel to suit your preferences, enhancing your overall comfort. Additionally, the included S65T brake pads provide excellent stopping power, giving you confidence as you navigate various terrains.

What We Like
Durable aluminium construction
Improved clearance for mudguards
Customisable spring tension
Excellent stopping power
#TOP 8

Silver Recessed Rim Brake Pair R539 by Tektro

TEKTRO_4717592013580
Multi-coloured
Einzhel
Silver Recessed Rim Brake Pair R539 by Tektro Cover
Road Bike Rim Brake R539 - Recessed - Pair - Silver

The Tektro R539 Rim Brakes are designed for optimal performance on your bike. The recessed design ensures a sleek fit, while the silver finish adds a stylish touch. These brakes provide reliable stopping power, giving you confidence while riding. With their easy installation, you can quickly upgrade your bike's braking system, enhancing your overall cycling experience. Whether you’re commuting or enjoying a leisurely ride, these brakes will help ensure your safety on the road.

What We Like
Stylish silver finish
Reliable stopping power
Easy installation
Sleek recessed design

Jadeshay V Shape Mechanical Brake Set

Jadeshay7r9n6p54zm
Jadeshay V Shape Mechanical Brake Set Cover
Jadeshay Bike Brake Calipers, 1 Pair Road Bike Brakes - Rear Bike Caliper Brake Set V Shape Mechanical Dual-Pivot Brake Set Repair Parts Cycling Accessory

The Jadeshay Brake Calipers are designed to enhance your cycling experience with their efficient safety braking system. The V-brake mechanism creates friction between the brake pads and the rim, ensuring reliable stopping power. Their simple structure makes installation and maintenance a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your rides without hassle. With a groove design that boosts braking effectiveness, you can feel more secure while cycling. Additionally, the set includes two brakes for easy replacement, providing convenience for your road bike needs.

What We Like
Effective safety braking
Easy installation and maintenance
Enhanced braking effectiveness
Convenient quick replacements
Durable and sturdy materials
#TOP 10

WEERAS BMX Rear Aluminium Alloy Brake Set

WEERAS
BBS1101
WEERAS BMX Rear Aluminium Alloy Brake Set Cover
WEERAS BMX Rear Aluminum Alloy Rim Brake Set Rim Brake Caliper Set

The WEERAS BMX Brake Set is designed to enhance your cycling experience with its comprehensive package. It includes a rim brake caliper, a brake lever, and a brake cable, ensuring you have everything you need for installation. You can enjoy the convenience of having all necessary hardware included, making your setup straightforward. This set provides reliable braking performance, allowing you to ride confidently, knowing you can stop safely when you need to.

What We Like
Complete brake kit included
Reliable braking performance
Easy installation
Enhances cycling safety
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our rim bike brake research, we found 172 rim bike brake products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 11,544 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rim bike brakes list. We found that most customers choose rim bike brakes with an average price of £30.17.

The rim bike brakes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rim bike brakes, including Magura, SHIMANO, KCNC, MAKELEN, Tektro. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,955 consumers with an average rating of 3.7.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.