Shimano Dura-Ace
Introducing a new shoe compound to its 2010 model brakes, Shimano's Dura-Ace brakes ($345 as of March 2010) report 50 percent longer wear and 120 percent greater stopping power (in dry conditions) over previous models. Dura-Ace brake calipers are made of cold forged aluminum and feature an anodized finish. Custom settings include toe-in, centering, and spring tension adjustment. Each brake weighs 293 grams.
Campagnolo Record
Produced in Italy, Campagnolo has dubbed its premier brakes "skeleton brakes" due to the brakes' sleek and hollow appearance. This unique geometry has allowed Campagnolo to reduce the overall weight of the brake without sacrificing any of the brake's stopping power. Each brake weighs just 282 grams and includes light alloy and titanium hardware. Campagnolo Record Skeleton brakes ($365) come in a black finish.
Sram Red
The choice of Lance Armstrong and his 2010 Radioshack Cycling Team, Sram Red brakes ($240) share Campagnolo's lightweight, skeleton-like design. Sram brakes promise a blend of maximum stopping power and minimum weight through the use of cold forged aluminum brake arms, alloy pivot bolts, and centering and spring tension adjustments. Sram Red brakes come in black and weigh in at 265 grams.
Cane Creek SL
While perhaps better knows for its quality headsets, Cane Creek also produces a stellar pair of brakes. Cane Creek SL brakes ($205.50) include all the attributes of its more famous rivals -- cold forged aluminum arms, titanium pivot bolts, and quick release mechanism for easy maintenance. Each Cane Creek SL brake weighs in at a cool 264 grams, making it one of the lightest brakes on the market. 2010 Cane Creek SL brakes come in silver or black finish.
