[mtncrux]

I just picked up a used Raleigh Rowdy 20inch 6 speed for my 6yo. It is in pretty good shape except that the head of the reach adjust screw for the rear brake lever is totally stripped out. I tried to cut a notch in the top of the screw and get it out with a flat screwdriver but it didn't work. I could probably drill it out and re-tap it, but now I am thinking that it would just be easiest to replace the whole brake lever.


Can someone recommend a cheap brake lever that works well with little hands?

It has Tektro brake levers with V-brakes but I don't see any model number marked on the levers.

Should I be shopping for a mountain bike lever or a BMX lever? (The Tektro BMX levers seem to be the closest match to what I have now)

Are there any kid-specific brake levers?

Thanks for the help!!

 

[mtncrux]

Is this a good choice for a replacement?

Tektro 319A RH BMX Linear Brake Lever Silver Black BMX Use | eBay

 

[ilmfat]

Avid FR-5 Brake Levers > Components > Brakes > Mountain Bike Brake Levers | Jenson USA Online Bike Shop

ive had good luck with my daughters sd-7 levers, and im sure the fr5s are similar.

but the tektros will be fine too.

 

[indianadave]

Second the Avid Speed Dials. Very easy to find cheap on Ebay, or your local bike club, and very adjustable as far as reach, and leverage. I have them on my daughters 20" Hotrock, and will probably get another set for the new 24" bike.

 

[djork]

I'm thinking of swapping out the stock Tektro brake lever on my my nephew's 20" Hotrock for an Avid FR5. The Tektro lever feels a bit stiff whereas the Avid feels more fluid and has less resistance. So I say Avid FR5 for price and ease of functionality.

 

[ilmfat]

Switching from Tektros to Avids has ALWAYS increased performance, even without a cable change.

Which is weird, cause u'd think the brakes would have more to do with it.

Years ago, I went from Tektro brakes to avid, and was disappointed that braking did not improve. Switched to fr-5s, and tada. So now I don't worry bout the brakes and just switch levers.

Tho my monocog runs a full set of Tektros and they seem to run well.

And I DO like the Sd-7s more than the fr5s. But the 5s are a definite improvement over the Tektros.

 

[mtncrux]

Thanks for the advice. I just ordered a pair of Avid FR-5 levers.

 

[ilmfat]

:thumbsup: