Seems like every "Shimnao equipped" bike I see on the web or the LBS has Tektro brakes. I see Nuevation charges $110 for Ultegra brakes over Tektro. That seems like alot, implying that these things are pretty cheap.
Do Tektro brakes suck?
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pmf
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35 Posts
I have Tektro R530 dual pivot and changing to kool stop pads made a world of difference. :thumbsup: but the Tektro caliper return spring does feel alittle weaker than Shimano.
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2 Posts
Thanks a lot for the responses guys. I will try to swap out the pads and get a good feel before I report back.
Thanks again
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14,776 Posts
It's worth the couple bucks extra to get one of the models with the spherical washers that allow easy and precise angle adjustment. So it's the Supra 2 if you want to go with the inexpensive one-piece pad, or the Dura type holders if you want fancier-looking metal hardware with replaceable pads. I'd go with the Supra 2. And I like the plain salmon compound personally.
Kool Stop Salmon Brake Pads for Bicycles from Harris Cyclery
I agree, get the DuraType holders and pads. I got mine at Amazon. They line up real easy
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5 Posts
+1 on weak return spring... The rear brake on mine seems particularly reluctant to return to where it started. Otherwise I haven't got any real complaints about them. I've never had issues with reluctant stopping; quite the opposite in fact. Sometimes when riding in a group they can be a little treacherous for whoever's following me. Although that could just be my ham-fisted braking :blush2:
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53 Posts
How do you get Kool Stop Salmons on Tektro brakes? I ordered a pair of Salmons before my new bike showed up because I had heard how bad the Tektro pads are, but I couldn't configure all the washers properly to make them fit. Because of the design, it seemed like the caliper doesn't open wide enough to accomodate the pad. Part of it has to do with the fastener Kool Stop provides.
EDIT: I do want to comment and say that I don't really have an issue with the stock Tektro pads. They seem to work just fine. However, that comment is based on not having tried better pads yet.
EDIT: I do want to comment and say that I don't really have an issue with the stock Tektro pads. They seem to work just fine. However, that comment is based on not having tried better pads yet.
Just a general thought: sometimes, moving a washer to the other side of the caliper will solve that problem. Obviously, convcave curved washers will have to mate with convex curved washers or - surfaces. But some of those flat washers or spacers can sometimes live on the other side of the caliper or be gotten rid of altogether.
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5,844 Posts
I would rather have Tektro brakes with Kool Stop pads than Shimano brakes with their stock pads. As others said, the pads make all the difference. Considering the price differential between Shimano and Tektro, you can get the Tektros with Kool Stop pads and still come out ahead.
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53 Posts
Oh, I tried a handful of configurations. Maybe I need to order the version for DuraAce/Ultegra even though I have Tektro brakes. Here is a DuraAce/Ultegra type and here is the regular threaded Salmon. You can see how much longer the stud is.
It looks like the DuraAce/Ultegra matches the style of fastener of the stock Tektro pads. This is stock pic of the brakes.
Yes, I see what you're saying. I think those Supra pads were primarily designed for V-brakes. They might fit some caliper brakes as well, but obviously not yours.
Just wanted to share my Tektro USA and the absolute disgrace of a service team they have in UTAH, queue banjo. I had a really bad accident resulting in nearly 2 years off work. I can’t use my right fingers, so needed a brake solution. I waited 3 months, all of those beautiful days of UK summer for this tectro dual brake to arrive. When it did, I thought this must be some sort of joke. The crudest piece of pig iron, wrapped badly in Christmas wrapping paper. The guy must of thought I was from Downton Abbey, I was nothing but nice to them. I put the piece of .... in the bin where it belongs. I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to make fun of disabled people. Avoid.
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16,359 Posts
Still pissed off about this are ya?
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989 Posts
To answer the question, yes they suck. Now, will they be good enough for you, very possibly. What's adequate braking power for one rider is not the same as for another rider. I would never accept to ride with many versions of Campy Record or Shimano Dura-Ace brakes, but obviously they have been good enough for many pros. Just the same, I would never go in the Alps with Tektro brakes, but they are fine for many riders in this group. Also as mentioned, Koolstop pads are great. Many people also recommend Swisstop, personally I've always been very happy with Koolstop.
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24,421 Posts
Define "suck". No, the Tektro brakes I have had experience with are nowhere as good as Shimano 105 or above, but they are nowhere near as bad as a pair of Cane Creek brakes I once had.
However, TRP (Tektro's high end brakes) are actually quite good and rival Shimano.
However, TRP (Tektro's high end brakes) are actually quite good and rival Shimano.
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3,886 Posts
i've had nothing but great operation from my tektro dual-pivots. i have them on three vintage keepers. 539 on the front; 559 on the rear. they're a great value. though, i do always toss the pads and use kool-stop refills in the shimano-like shoes.
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16,359 Posts
Anyone that throws out the blanket statement that 'Tektro brakes suck' is pretty much an idiot. Tektro makes TONS of brakes of all different types and quality levels. Sure, some suck. Same w/ pretty much all manufacturers that make more than 1 level of a component.
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