Non aero brake cable question

[Maca]

Right so this might sound a stupid question but ................

I am just about to build my 1st bike with non aer brake levers. So my question is should the brake cables come down in front or behind the handle bars ??

I've seen it done both ways just wonder if there is a right or wrong way and pro's and con's ?

 

[Midlife]

It depends on the length of the stem, for a short stem they go in front but with a longer stem they go behind if that makes sense

Shaun

 

[tonyf39]

They go wherever you want them to go, it makes jack difference unless you have a 45mm stem or somesuch. Don't let anybody tell you that you HAVE to have them behind because it's not true despite the eye rolls and sounds of indignation from traditionalists...

 

[Maca]

I'm using a 110mm stem, its for a bike that I am hopeing to have at the l'eroica next year so I want it to be right.

 

[glpinxit]

Try both - you may find them getting in the way of your hands with one or the other. (Behind works best for me on my road bike with non-aero levers.)

 

[originalshinkicker]

I'm using a 110mm stem, its for a bike that I am hopeing to have at the l'eroica next year so I want it to be right.

Look at as many images of the top pros riding the classics of the 70s and 80s (or whatever era your bike is) and go for the same. The pro team mechanics had it right and the top pro riders had it right - if you want it right then copy how they had it.

My personal preference is behind the bars. I have 2 TI Raleighs and any image I look at of the TI Raleigh team has cables behind the bars.

 

[Spokesmann]

Where cables are routed always seem to be a moot point. Im with Shaun and run them behind on a longer stem in front if shorter. It's all up to you really and how you want your ride to look . Im always being told to cut or shorten my cables....

 

[markyp]

it doesn't matter....as long as you've got the L/H brake lever operating the front brake!

 

[Maca]

Not even getting into that one ........... but no I ride with rear brake on left.

 

[markyp]

TROLL ALERT! please ignore my last comment regarding brake levers.