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kal-i-per brakes

noun

A type of bicycle brake that is operated by pulling a lever on the handlebars, which causes two arms to squeeze the wheel rim.

Example usage: My bike has caliper brakes for extra stopping power.

Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.

Most used by: Riders who need reliable and precise braking.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 2/10

Also see: Cantilever Brakes, Rim Brakes, Direct-Pull Brakes, V-Brakes,

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What Are Caliper Brakes?

Caliper brakes are a type of bike brake that provides cyclists with greater control and stopping power. The brake system consists of a pair of curved arms, or 'calipers,' that are mounted to the frame of a bike and connected to the brake levers on the handlebars. When the brake lever is pulled, the calipers squeeze the brake pads to the wheel's rim, slowing the bike down.

Caliper brakes are the most common type of bike brake and are found on most road and mountain bikes. They are durable, reliable, and easy to adjust, making them a popular choice for cyclists. They also provide a high degree of modulation, meaning that cyclists can apply consistent and precise amounts of braking power.

Caliper brakes are not the most powerful type of bike brake, but they offer a good balance of stopping power and control. They are also relatively affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-minded cyclists. According to a survey conducted by the National Bicycle Dealers Association, caliper brakes are installed on 66% of all bikes sold in the United States.

The Origin of the Term 'Caliper Brakes' in Cycling

Caliper brakes, also known as side-pull brakes, are a type of brakes used on bicycles that were designed in the 1950s in Europe. These brakes are attached to the frame of the bicycle and have two arms that are connected by a cable. The arms are pulled by the cable, causing the brake pads to press against the wheel rims to stop the bike.

The term 'caliper brakes' was first used in the 1960s in the United States and United Kingdom to refer to these brakes. The term is derived from the word 'caliper,' which means a device used for measuring the thickness or distance between two points. This is because the brakes have two arms that are used to press against the wheel rims, similar to how a caliper is used to measure the thickness of an object.

Today, caliper brakes are still used on many bicycles, especially those designed for road and track cycling. They are preferred for their lightweight design and ease of maintenance. They are also more efficient than other types of brakes, as they provide more powerful stopping power.

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