The Best Cyclocross Bike Brakes

Kore Kross Race Plus

Combining performance with user-friendliness, Kore Components' Kross Race Plus brakes are built for the cyclocross racer who wants a finely-tuned stopping system. Conical washers and spring-tension screws on each arm allow for easy application and adjustment and at 135g per wheel, the Race Plus brakes won't slow a rider down until he wants them to. Calling them "an instant favorite on the race course and in the workshop," Bicycling.com lauded the Race Plus' ease of use as well as their effectiveness in sloppy conditions, saying that "their shape allows for incredible mud clearance" and that their open design allows "clutter-free wheel changes even when the tires are packed with mud."

The Hive Revl

At 115g per wheel, The Hive's Revl carbon brake set is a solid option for those who want maximum stopping power with minimal weight cost. Carbon fiber arms, titanium studs and a single-pivot design allow the Revl to stop on a dime without weighing a rider down, and SwissStop ghp pads provide smooth, powerful stopping power. Recommending the Revl to riders who want "unique and powerful stoppers" Bicycling.com noted the Revl's "structural rigidity, which keeps braking forces sharp," as well as its "ability to provide muscular stopping power in wet or dry conditions."

TNP Euro X Magnesium

With a wide profile, TNP's Euro X Magnesium cyclocross brakes are clog-resistant, and at 105g per wheel, you won't even know they're there. Noting the Euro X Mag's white color with gold accents, Bicycling.com called them "man jewelry for the manliest form of bike racing this side of [downhill racing]." Bicycling.com noted the brake's stopping power and "excellent mud clearance" but was wowed by its most distinguishing characteristic, "a vitally important single-hand adjuster nut to release tension from the brake without tools," which allows a rider to loosen the brakes on the fly.