Complete Bike Brakes Set review

Have you been searching for a single kit that can replace both front and rear brakes on your bike without a lot of guesswork?

First impressions

When I opened the box of the Complete Bike Brakes Set, Universal Bike Front and Rear MTB Brake, Inner and Outer Callipers Cables Lever Kit with Multi-Tool Wrenches Black, I immediately noticed how complete the package looked. I like having almost everything I need for a swap or upgrade in one kit, and this one certainly felt like a ready-to-install solution out of the box. The black finish gives a tidy, understated look that matches many frames and handlebars, and the included tools reduce the need to hunt for extras before starting the job.

What’s in the box

The kit includes a pair of black brakes (with elbows and screws), a pair of black aluminum alloy brake levers, a front brake cable, a rear brake cable, a Multi-Tool, a Multi-Wrench, and 10 cable ties. Having those parts all together saved me time because I did not need to source separate levers, cables, or mounting hardware.

Item	Quantity	Key detail
Brake calipers (black)	1 pair	Includes elbow and mounting screws
Brake levers (black aluminum alloy)	1 pair	Standard clamp size for most handlebars
Rear brake cable (outer)	1	78.7 in (200 cm)
Front brake cable (outer)	1	31.5 in (80 cm)
Rear brake inner wire	1	61 in (155 cm)
Front brake inner wire	1	1
Multi-Tool	1	Small, functional for common adjustments
Multi-Wrench	1	Adds flexibility for different nuts/bolts
Cable ties	10	Useful for cable routing and tidy finish

I put those parts on the bench and sorted everything before starting the installation, which made the process smoother. The lengths of the cables stood out to me as particularly generous for the rear, which is often a point of frustration with some cheaper kits.

Included tools and accessories

The Multi-Tool and Multi-Wrench included are small but practical for most of the adjustments needed during installation and setup. I appreciated having cable ties in the kit since they help secure the cables along the frame and prevent rattling during rides. The elbow pieces and mounting screws were included with the brake calipers, which meant I did not have to go hunting for small parts that are often missing from generic kits.

Design and build quality

The overall design blends aerospace-grade aluminum with composite rubber elements to balance strength and feel. From my hands-on time, the levers feel solid without being overly heavy, and the brake arms have a clean finish that suggests attention to basic build quality. The black coating looks well-applied and gives a coordinated appearance with other black components on the bike.

Materials and construction

The kit makes a point of using aerospace-grade aluminum and composite rubber in key areas, and that shows in the feel of the levers and brake arms when I tested them. The brake cables are sheathed in a high-density PU layer, and the cores are described as a metal-plastic hybrid — in practice the cables feel smooth in the housings and resistant to kinking during routing. I found the elbow fittings to be well-machined and the screws to thread cleanly without cross-threading.

Durability and weather resistance

This brake system is rated to operate under extreme temperatures from -30℃ to 80℃, and I like that the manufacturer emphasizes an oxidation-resistant coating. On wet rides I noticed less surface corrosion after a few weeks compared with older, untreated components I’ve used. The kit claims the cables offer 300% enhanced wear resistance and are tested for over 10,000 cycles; while I cannot fully replicate that in a short test, the initial feel is reassuringly solid.

Brake performance

On the road and trail, the braking response felt predictable and linear, which is what I look for when I install a new brake set. The lever travel is reasonable, and once adjusted the pads contact the rim consistently without a lot of fiddling. I did several braking tests in different conditions to get a feel for modulation and stopping power.

Braking power and modulation

The braking power is more than adequate for casual riding, commuting, and moderate trail use. I noticed good modulation — I could feather the brakes without abrupt locking — which gave me confidence when approaching corners or descents. For heavier riders or aggressive downhill runs, I would be cautious and recommend testing thoroughly before relying on them for all-out braking demands.

Heat and wear performance

Because these are mechanical rim brakes paired with PU-sheathed cables, heat buildup is mostly a concern on long descents where friction accumulates at the pads and rims. In my tests, I did not notice significant fade on moderate descents, but extended high-speed descents on heavy bikes would benefit from regular inspection of pad wear and rim temperature. The manufacturer’s claims about wear resistance and longevity are promising, and I expect reasonable durability with routine maintenance.

Installation experience

Installing the Complete Bike Brakes Set was straightforward for me, and I appreciate that the kit contains most of the small parts required. I followed a logical sequence: mounting the calipers to the frame and fork, running the cables through the housing and elbows, attaching the levers, and then fine-tuning tension and pad alignment. Having the Multi-Tool and Multi-Wrench on hand made alignment and tension adjustments easier.

Tools provided and ease of use

The Multi-Tool handled most of the hex and Allen key adjustments, and the Multi-Wrench helped with cable anchor nuts. I found that these tools were adequate for the job, but if you already have a full toolkit the included tools serve as a convenient backup. The cable ties were useful for keeping everything tidy and preventing cable rub against the frame or chainstays.

Step-by-step installation notes

I aligned the caliper holes with the mounting points on my frame and fork, then threaded the brake cables through the brake wire tubes and secured the ends. I fastened the brake line to the anchor bolts, fitted the brake caps in place, and carefully adjusted the pad-to-rim distance and spring tension. I recommend trimming the cables only after confirming final routing and tension to avoid cutting too early and needing an extension.

Fit and compatibility

This kit aims to be universal for most mountain and road bikes that use rim brakes, and in my testing it fit several common frames and forks without modification. The adjustable brake arm tension and the ability to adjust the internal brake spring make it adaptable to different frames and fork geometries. Because the cable lengths are generous, the kit accommodates a variety of frame sizes and handlebar setups.

Cable lengths and how they work

The rear brake cable outer length is 78.7 inches (200 cm), while the front outer is 31.5 inches (80 cm); for inner wires the rear is 61 inches (155 cm) and the front is 25.6 inches (65 cm). I found those lengths more than sufficient for long-reach setups and bikes with routing that requires extra slack. If you need less cable, the easy solution is to trim to size and install new ends, which is straightforward with basic cable cutters.

Adjustability and tensioning

Adjusting spring tension is easy via the internal brake bow, and I tightened or softened the spring as needed to center the calipers and equalize pad travel. The lever reach is standard and comfortable for most hands, and I could fine-tune lever position on the bars quickly. Once I set the anchor bolts and did a few test squeezes, the system held its adjustment well during several rides.

Maintenance and longevity

Routine maintenance for these brakes is the same as other mechanical rim brake systems: inspect pads, clean rims, lubricate cable housing interfaces, and replace cables when frayed. Because the kit uses PU-sheathed cables and a hybrid core, I expect less stretch and better longevity than some lower-end cables I’ve used in the past. I recommend periodic checks every few hundred miles to confirm cable anchor bolts remain tight and pad material is acceptable.

Replacing cables and pads

If you need to replace the cables or pads down the line, the process is straightforward and can be completed with the tools provided or a basic bike toolset. When trimming cable lengths, be sure to use a proper cable cutter to avoid frayed ends and install a new ferrule or end cap. Brake pad replacement is standard — remove the mounting bolt, swap pads, and re-align to the rim surface.

Expected lifespan

Based on construction and my observations, I expect the mechanical components to last several seasons with normal commuting or moderate trail use, provided I keep up with basic maintenance. The PU-sheathed cables and oxidation-resistant finish will help prevent premature corrosion and wear, but pads will wear faster depending on riding conditions and rim material. I’d budget to replace pads and possibly cables within a year or two of heavy use, which is in line with typical mechanical rim brake setups.

Pros and cons

I like that the kit offers a nearly complete brake swap with solid materials and long cable lengths, and the included tools simplify installation. On the downside, this is still a mechanical rim brake system, which has inherent limitations in high-heat or heavy-load scenarios compared with some hydraulic systems.

• Pros:
  • Comprehensive kit with most parts and tools included.
  • Generous cable lengths for compatibility with many bikes.
  • Solid feel and good modulation for everyday riding.
  • Oxidation-resistant coating and PU-sheathed cables for durability.
• Cons:
  • Not intended to replace hydraulic brakes for high-performance downhill use.
  • Brake pads are standard and may require frequent replacement on rough terrain.
  • The included tools are basic and may not replace a full workshop toolkit.

Value and who should buy it

I think this kit offers good value for riders who want a reliable, all-in-one mechanical brake upgrade without spending on custom parts. If you are a commuter, weekend trail rider, or someone restoring an older bike with rim brakes, this set makes a lot of sense. If you demand high-end braking for aggressive downhill racing or very heavy loads, hydraulic systems or premium rim components may be a better match.

Comparisons with other kits

Compared to budget single-piece brake replacements, this kit stands out for including levers, cables, and tools together, which reduces compatibility guesswork. I’ve used other kits that skimp on cable length or omit small tools, which makes installation slower and more frustrating. This set sits in a middle ground between bare-minimum replacements and premium branded components.

Versus stock brakes

If your bike currently has worn or corroded stock brakes, this kit is usually a step up in terms of fresh cables and new levers. I found braking responsiveness improved after replacing older, stretched cables and glazed pads. For bikes with relatively new stock brakes, the differences are less dramatic, but aesthetics and the fresh feel of the levers are still worthwhile.

Versus higher-end components

Against higher-end branded rim brakes or hydraulic systems, this kit cannot match the absolute braking performance and heat management of premium hardware. However, the cost-to-performance ratio is favorable, and for many riders the convenience and comprehensive nature of the kit outweigh the marginal gains offered by elite components. I see this as a practical, budget-conscious solution rather than a racing-level upgrade.

My real-world ride report

I installed the kit on my commuter and took it on a mix of city streets, a short gravel cutoff, and a local mellow descent to assess real-world behavior. In everyday conditions the brakes performed reliably and predictably, and I had confidence braking in both wet and dry conditions after a short bedding-in period. The lever feel was comfortable for long commutes, and the calipers stayed centered after several rides without needing constant readjustment.

Commuting and city riding

For commuting, the kit performed very well: stopping distances were reasonable, modulation made it easy to approach intersections, and the cable routing stayed tidy with the included ties. I appreciated the corrosion-resistant finish during rainy rides, as it reduced quick surface rust on exposed components. The levers felt comfortable when I carried groceries and made frequent stops.

Trail and mountain use

On light trail rides the brakes handled short technical sections and moderate descents without drama, but I would not rely on them for extended, high-speed downhill runs or for heavy all-mountain bikes. The pads and rim brakes in general generate heat and wear faster under repetitive heavy braking, so for serious trail riders I’d recommend evaluating pad compounds and rim compatibility before committing. For casual trail use, they were more than adequate.

Road riding and touring

For road riding and light touring, the kit’s long rear cable length is especially helpful when you need extra routing for extended frames or handlebar setups. I used them on a weekend tour with luggage and found brake modulation remained predictable even under load. Regular pad checks are necessary when touring, but the system itself was reliable and easy to adjust on the road.

Common questions and troubleshooting

I collected a few typical issues I experienced or anticipated and how I handled them during setup and rides. These tips helped me reduce noise, ensure safety, and keep the brakes performing consistently.

Why are my brakes noisy after installation?

Noise usually comes from misaligned pads, dirty rims, or insufficient bedding-in of new pads. I cleaned the rims, checked pad alignment so the pad hits the rim squarely and not the tire or the spokes, and rode gently to bed in the pads — that reduced noise substantially. If noise persists, check for embedded debris in the pad surface and replace the pads if necessary.

My lever feels spongy or has too much travel — what should I adjust?

Spongy or excessive travel often means cable tension is too loose or the cable is stretching in the first hours of use. I tightened the anchor bolt incrementally and used the barrel adjuster to fine-tune lever travel until the pads engaged the rim comfortably. After initial stretching the cable settled and kept good tension, but I rechecked after the first couple rides.

How do I prevent cables from fraying after trimming?

Use a proper cable cutter and install ferrules or crimped end caps to keep the cable end neat and prevent fraying. If you cut with pliers or a poor-quality cutter, the wire ends will splay and make installation harder. I always crimp a metal end cap after trimming and give it a small dab of grease to protect against corrosion.

Safety checks before every ride

I developed a short pre-ride checklist that I use after installing this kit and during regular use to ensure continued safety. These quick checks take a minute and can prevent many common issues.

• Squeeze both levers and confirm firm engagement and return action. I watch for any unusual slack or grinding.
• Inspect pad wear and rim surface for glazing or embedded debris. I file or replace pads when necessary.
• Check cable anchor nuts and mounting bolts for tightness. I use a torque sense and confirm with the Multi-Tool if needed.
• Verify cable routing is secure with ties and not rubbing moving parts. I reposition ties if I hear rub or see fraying.

Final thoughts and recommendation

Overall I find the Complete Bike Brakes Set, Universal Bike Front and Rear MTB Brake, Inner and Outer Callipers Cables Lever Kit with Multi-Tool Wrenches Black to be a practical, well-rounded solution for riders looking to replace or upgrade mechanical rim brakes affordably. I appreciated the comprehensive contents, long cable lengths, and solid initial performance, and I recommend it to commuters, casual trail riders, and DIY cyclists who want an all-in-one kit that performs reliably with routine maintenance. If you need elite braking for intense downhill or competition use, consider higher-end options, but for most everyday riding scenarios this kit strikes a good balance between cost, convenience, and performance.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.