breyk lee-vurz
Noun, Plural
The handlebars of a bicycle that are used to activate the brakes.
Example usage: When descending a steep hill, use the brake levers to maintain control.
Most used in: Urban and mountain cycling.
Most used by: All types of cyclists.
Popularity: 9/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Drop Bars, Brake Hoods, Brake Shifters, Caliper Brakes,
What are Brake Levers?
Brake levers are a type of handlebar-mounted lever used for braking on a bicycle. They are typically located on the handlebars near the rider's hands and are operated by the rider's fingers. The levers control the brakes of the bicycle, allowing the rider to slow down or stop the bike.
Brake levers are found on all types of bicycles, including road, mountain, and hybrid bikes. They are usually made of metal, plastic, or composite materials, and can be found in a variety of colors and styles. Many brake levers come with adjustable reach and angle settings to fit different hand sizes and rider habits.
The use of brake levers is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, bicyclists are less likely to be involved in a crash if they use their brakes properly. Proper brake use is also important for maintaining control of the bike and avoiding dangerous situations.
Brake levers are an essential part of any bike, and can make the difference between a safe and enjoyable ride or an accident. When selecting brake levers for your bike, it is important to choose ones that are comfortable and easy to use. Additionally, make sure to replace your brake levers regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly.
The History of Brake Levers in Cycling
The term 'brake lever' was first used in the late 19th century, in relation to the use of levers to operate brakes on bicycles. This was a new feature at the time, as brakes had previously been operated by a lever on the handlebars. The use of levers to control brakes was an important innovation, as it allowed cyclists to stop more quickly and safely.
The first brake levers were invented in France in 1891 by Charles Terront. He developed the lever-operated brakes as a way to improve the safety of cycling. The system he developed was quickly adopted by other bicycle manufacturers, and soon became the standard method of braking for cyclists around the world.
Since the invention of brake levers, they have become an essential part of cycling. Today, most bicycles come with lever-operated brakes, and they are the most common type of brake used by cyclists. Brake levers have come a long way since their invention, and they are now more comfortable, efficient, and reliable than ever before.
