Complete Bike Brakes Set (Black) review

Have you been searching for a single kit that replaces both front and rear brakes, adds new cables and levers, and gives you tools to finish the job?

Overview of the Complete Bike Brakes Set – Universal Front and Rear Brakes with Cables and Levers, Including Multi-Tool Wrenches (Black)

I tested the Complete Bike Brakes Set – Universal Front and Rear Brakes with Cables and Levers, Including Multi-Tool Wrenches (Black) because I wanted a single purchase that would refresh my bike’s braking without complex trips to a shop. The package promises a full replacement: brakes, levers, cables, and tools. I approached this kit looking for reliability, straightforward installation, and clear value.

I’ll walk through what’s included, how the parts performed during installation and on the road, what adjustments I made, and whether the kit is worth buying based on real-world use. I’ll point out the good and the limitations so you can decide if this set fits your bike and riding style.

What’s in the Box

I like knowing exactly what I’m getting before I start wrenching. The box includes multiple parts intended to cover both front and rear brake systems on most bikes.

Below is a clear breakdown of the contents and some quick notes on each item.

Item	Quantity	Notes
Black brake assemblies (with elbow and screws)	2 pairs	One pair for front, one pair for rear; includes mounting screw hardware
Black aluminum alloy brake handlebars (brake levers)	1 pair	Lightweight alloy levers designed for easy grip and leverage
Front brake cable (outer/inner lengths included)	1 piece (80 cm / 65 cm pipe)	Front inner cable 31.5 in (80 cm); outer/pipe 25.6 in (65 cm)
Rear brake cable (outer/inner lengths included)	1 piece (200 cm / 155 cm pipe)	Rear inner cable 78.7 in (200 cm); outer/pipe 61 in (155 cm)
Multi-tool	1	Compact multi-tool for common fasteners
Multi-wrenches set	1 set	Additional wrenches for adjustments and cable anchoring
Cable ties	10	For neat cable routing and securing housing

I appreciated that the kit includes two pairs of brake assemblies rather than single units, which makes it truly a full replacement in one purchase. The cable lengths are generous, especially the long rear cable which gives flexibility for larger frames or unusual routing. The multiple cable ties and the multi-tool are small touches that made the job cleaner and reduced the need to fetch extra tools.

First Impressions and Fit

When I first unpacked everything, I noticed the clean black finish and the compactness of the levers and brake arms. The parts felt light but not flimsy, and the aluminum levers have a matte coating that matches many bikes visually.

The kit positions itself as “universal,” and I found that it physically fits most standard mountain and city bikes with conventional brake mounting holes. The levers are designed for typical handlebar diameters, and the calipers are the style common to v-brakes or linear-pull brakes used on many bikes. From the packaging, it’s clear the manufacturer aims to provide a one-size-fits-most replacement that emphasizes value and accessibility.

Installation Experience

I installed this kit on a standard hardtail mountain bike frame and on a commuter road bike with linear-pull style brakes to test both front and rear setups. I completed the job at home with basic tools and the supplied multi-tool.

Installation felt approachable. Every kit item had a clear purpose, and the included hardware matched typical mounting points. The steps below describe my process and what I found useful or tricky.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, I laid out the multi-tool and the additional wrenches included in the package, plus a couple of extra items from my toolbox: a small cable cutter, a 5 mm Allen key, and some lubricant for the pivot points.

I recommend having a cable cutter on hand because the kit’s cable ends need clean cutting for smooth operation. The supplied multi-tool covers many fasteners, but having a dedicated cutter and a 5 mm Allen key made the job faster. I also had a small flat-head screwdriver for fine tension adjustments.

Removing the old components

Removing old levers and calipers took only a few minutes. I released cable tension, removed the old cables from the anchor bolts, and unbolted the levers and brake arms with the multi-tool.

I always take the time to compare the old and new parts before removing everything, which helped me confirm cable routing and anchor locations. Removing the old cables and housing cleaned up the handlebars and frame so the new kit would install smoothly.

Installing the levers

Installing the alloy brake levers was straightforward. I opened the clamp, positioned them roughly where I wanted on the handlebars, tightened the clamp bolts lightly, and then fine-tuned lever angle for comfort.

I set the lever reach so my fingers contacted the levers comfortably without strain. If your bars have grips or accessories, plan lever placement before final tightening. The lever clamp fit normal 22.2 mm handlebar diameters well. For larger or smaller bars, you may need different clamp shims (not included).

Mounting the brake arms

The brake arms bolted onto the frame and fork brake studs without issue. I greased the mounting bolts lightly to avoid corrosion and to make later adjustments easier. The arms seated flush and the springs could be adjusted to center the brake pads properly.

I threaded the cable through the provided elbow and housing, routed it to the lever, and secured the inner cable under the anchor bolt. The kit’s elbow piece and the screw hardware fit standard holes and made alignment of the housing straightforward.

Cutting and installing cable housing

Because the kit supplies both inner cables and pipe (outer housing), I measured and cut the housing to the lengths needed for tidy routing. I used a cable cutter to create a clean end and installed ferrules where appropriate.

The longer rear outer housing was especially helpful on a larger frame because I didn’t need to splice or extend anything. On the front, the shorter pipe length matched typical fork-to-handlebar routing and kept things neat.

Final adjustments and bed-in

After installation, I adjusted cable tension using the barrel adjusters on the levers and the fine-tuning screws on the brake arms. I made small, incremental changes and checked pad clearance and wheel spin. Once the brakes contacted the rims evenly and returned smoothly, I rode the bike slowly to bed-in the pads and cable stretch.

I recommend checking and re-tensioning after the initial short ride because new cables stretch and pads seat differently after a few stops.

Performance on Road and Trail

I tested braking under a variety of conditions: dry pavement, wet streets after light rain, and a few off-road sections with loose gravel. The kit delivered predictable, effective stopping power for the price and type of brakes provided.

I observed consistent braking behavior and quick response after proper adjustment. The levers offered good mechanical advantage, and the pads made solid contact without grabbing or slipping in dry conditions. In wet conditions the braking distance increased slightly, as expected, but modulation remained reasonable with no sudden lock-ups.

Braking Power

These brakes are not high-end hydraulic systems, but for mechanical linear-pull/brake-arm style setups they provided strong stopping power once properly adjusted. I felt confident making safe stops from regular cycling speeds and during occasional harder stops.

I found that pad quality and correct toe-in adjustment affected initial bite and noise. With a quick toe-in tweak (slight leading edge contact), the braking improved and squeal reduced. For aggressive downhill or very heavy riders, a hydraulic or higher-spec mechanical system will provide more control, but for everyday riding and moderate trails these perform well.

Modulation and Feel

I liked the lever feel: they offered a clear progression of force and reasonable modulation through the stroke. The alloy levers felt stiff and gave consistent feedback. I could gauge how much pulling force I had left before lock-up, which is important for controlled braking in variable terrain.

One minor note: the lever return depends on spring tension in the brake arms. If the spring tension isn’t set symmetrically, one side may return slightly slower. This was easily fixed by adjusting the spring tension screws.

Weather Resistance and Durability

The kit’s housing set is advertised as resistant to cold, heat, and oxidation, and my short-term observations aligned with that claim. The cable housing performed consistently in light rain and the metals showed no immediate corrosion after repeated rides. The plastic components (where present) felt robust and weatherproof.

For long-term durability, regular maintenance — cleaning, lubrication of pivot points, and replacing cables when frayed — will extend the life of these mechanical brakes. The materials used (alloy and plastic) are typical for value-oriented replacement kits and hold up well under normal use.

Compatibility and Fit Details

I tested compatibility across a few bike styles and found the kit works with most bikes that use linear-pull or V-brake style mounts. However, this isn’t compatible with disc brakes or caliper-style road brakes without appropriate adapters or different mounting points.

Frame and Fork Mounts

If your bike has standard threaded brake studs (the posts where V-brakes mount), this kit will mount directly. I installed it on a mountain fork that had these studs and on a commuter frame with the same mounting and both fit without modification.

If your bike uses post mount disc brakes or older center-pull calipers, this kit won’t be a direct fit. Before buying, confirm your bike’s brake mount type. The kit is aimed at riders with conventional V-brake compatible posts.

Handlebar Compatibility

The alloy levers clamp onto standard handlebars. I used them on a 22.2 mm handlebar and on slightly larger touring bars by adjusting placement. If your handlebars are oversized or drop-style road bars, these levers may not be the ideal match without shims or adapters. They’re primarily designed for flat bars and riser bars used on mountain and hybrid bikes.

Cable Lengths and Routing

The rear inner cable length of 78.7 inches (200 cm) is generous, enabling clean routing for larger frames or unusual routing under the frame. The 61-inch (155 cm) rear outer pipe is also long enough for most setups. For the front I found the supplied 31.5 inches (80 cm) inner and 25.6 inches (65 cm) outer to be adequate for common handlebar-to-fork lengths.

If you have a tandem, very large frame, or complex internal routing, you may still need custom lengths or extension pieces. For standard single-frame bikes, the kit’s cable lengths were a good match.

Build Quality and Materials

The combination of aluminum levers and alloy/plastic brake arms balances durability and cost. The finish is neat and scratches a bit less easily than cheaper plated steel alternatives.

Alloy Levers

The aluminum alloy levers offered a crisp, positive feel. They resist bending under normal use and have a comfortable shape for my fingers. The clamp hardware is adequate, but if you’re very rough on equipment or perform aggressive downhill riding, I’d inspect the clamp bolts regularly.

Brake Arms and Springs

The brake arms are made of alloy and plastic composites in high-wear areas. The pivot points felt solid after lubrication and didn’t show play after a few rides. The internal spring and tension mechanism worked as advertised, and I could readjust spring tension with the included tools when needed.

Cables and Housing

The cable inner wires and housing performed similarly to aftermarket replacement parts of this category. I liked that good-length housing pieces are provided, and the inner cables had suitably crimped ends. If you want premium stainless or coated cables for reduced friction, you could swap them later, but the supplied cables are good for typical maintenance cycles.

Pros and Cons

I always find a pros and cons list helpful to weigh whether a purchase is right for my needs. Here’s what stood out to me.

Pros

• Complete kit: front and rear brakes, levers, cables, and tools included, which simplifies a single purchase.
• Generous cable lengths: especially useful for larger frames or unusual routing.
• Easy installation: fits standard V-brake mounts and common handlebar sizes without special tools.
• Good value: hardware quality and included tools make this a cost-effective replacement option.
• Reasonable weather resistance: materials resist cold, heat, and oxidation as advertised.

Cons

• Not compatible with disc brake systems or road caliper brakes without adapters.
• For aggressive downhill use, hydraulic brakes remain superior in modulation and power.
• Clamp shims for oversized or drop bars are not included.
• Long-term durability depends on routine maintenance; higher-end components will outperform in longevity.

Maintenance and Adjustments

I performed a few basic maintenance tasks and adjustments after installation to get the best performance. These are simple steps I routinely follow to keep mechanical brakes working well.

Adjusting Brake Cable Tension

I tightened the cable so the pads contacted the rim with about 2-3 mm clearance from the rim when the lever is at rest. Using the barrel adjuster at the lever and the anchor bolt at the brake arm, I made micro-adjustments until braking felt responsive and wheels spun freely when not engaged.

After the initial setup, I rechecked tension after the first short ride because cables stretch slightly when new. Re-tensioning ensured consistent lever travel and good stopping power.

Centering the Brake Arms

I adjusted the spring tension screws on the brake arms to center the pads evenly on the rim. This prevents one pad from rubbing and ensures even wear. If you find persistent rubbing, re-check the spring tension and pad alignment, and make small adjustments until the clearance is equal on both sides.

Replacing Cables and Pads

Over time you’ll need to replace cables and pads. The kit’s cables are straightforward to swap. I recommend replacing inner cables every 1–2 seasons of regular use or sooner if you notice fraying or corrosion. Brake pads wear depending on conditions; replace them when the grooves are gone or stopping power declines.

Real-World Scenarios and Use Cases

I used this kit in several scenarios to assess how well it performs for different riders and conditions.

Commuter Use

As a daily commuter, I appreciated the complete kit’s convenience. The levers are comfortable for frequent stop-and-start urban riding, and the included tools make roadside adjustments easy. The weather resistance is a plus for rainy commutes.

Light Trail Riding

On singletrack with moderate climbs and descents, the brakes were reliable. I had good modulation for typical trail speeds and could control descent speed safely. For more technical or steep downhill-only purposes I’d prefer hydraulic brakes, but for mixed trail riding these were adequate.

Budget Upgrades and Emergency Replacements

If your old brakes are worn or damaged and you need a full replacement without buying individual parts, this kit is ideal. It’s especially useful if you want to do a complete refresh at home and get back on the road quickly without sourcing multiple components.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

I encountered a couple of minor issues during setup and rides, but each had simple fixes.

• Squealing brakes: I fixed this by adjusting toe-in so the front edge of the pad contacts slightly earlier than the rear, and by cleaning the rim and pad surface.
• Uneven pad wear: I corrected this by fine-tuning the spring tension with the small screw on the brake arm until pads centered.
• Lever pull feels spongy: After checking cable routing, I tightened the anchor bolt and made small barrel adjuster tweaks. If sponginess persists, check for frayed cables or rough housing ends.

If any issue persists beyond basic maintenance, the kit’s customer service offers assistance and the manufacturer promises solutions.

Comparison to Typical Alternatives

I compared this kit mentally to single-part purchases (new pads, cables, or levers separately) and to hydraulic systems.

• Compared to buying individual parts, the all-in-one kit saves time and often money because everything matches and comes with tools.
• Compared to hydraulic brakes, this kit is much easier to install and maintain at home, but hydraulic systems offer superior power and modulation for aggressive riding.
• Compared to higher-end mechanical replacements, the materials and finish are on par for the price range, but premium parts will offer longer wear and potentially lighter weight.

For most recreational riders and commuters, this kit is a strong value choice.

Who Should Buy This Kit

I recommend this Complete Bike Brakes Set if:

• You have a bike with V-brake/linear-pull mounts and want a full, inexpensive replacement kit.
• You prefer to do maintenance at home and value having the right tools included.
• You ride mostly on roads, commuting routes, or light-to-moderate trails and want consistent stopping power without professional installation.
• You need generous cable lengths for non-standard routing or larger frames.

I would not choose this kit if I needed disc brakes, drop-bar road brake replacements, or the absolute highest performance for downhill racing.

Value for Money

I evaluated the kit’s components, included tools, and overall performance against typical replacement part prices. The combined value of brakes, levers, cables, multi-tool, and wrenches in a single purchase makes the kit cost-effective for cyclists who want a full package.

I saved time and avoided compatibility headaches that come from sourcing individual pieces. If you factor in a bike shop’s labor costs, the kit’s value increases further as a DIY-friendly option. For basic to intermediate riders, this is a budget-conscious upgrade or repair.

Final Verdict

I’m satisfied with the Complete Bike Brakes Set – Universal Front and Rear Brakes with Cables and Levers, Including Multi-Tool Wrenches (Black). It delivered a full, coherent replacement bundle that installed cleanly and performed reliably across street and light trail conditions. The included tools, cable lengths, and adjustability made installation straightforward for a home mechanic like me.

If you want a practical, effective mechanical brake replacement without spending on premium parts or shop labor, this kit is an excellent choice. Keep in mind the limitations regarding disc brake compatibility and extreme performance demands, and plan routine maintenance to keep the system working smoothly. Overall, I found it to be a friendly, competent, and value-driven product that brought my bike’s braking back to good working order.

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