- Short-reach brakes are the modern standard: 39-50mm brake pad positioning from center of frame bolt to center of pad bolt
- Standard-reach brakes are often called “long reach”: 47-57mm brake pad positioning from center of frame bolt to center of pad bolt. Back in the day, just about everything was this size. We still use it on our road frames because we like to have extra clearance for big cushy tires
The Pacer and Steamroller* frames use standard reach calipers, although some short reach calipers will work. Some fine current examples of standard reach calipers are Shimano BR R-600 or BR A-550, Tektro 521AG, 521A, or 520A. Do not use Sidepulls with 53-71mm or 61-78 reach.
*The Steamroller frameset was not specifically designed for use with a
rear brake and will result in a class "B" fit. If you choose to use a
rear brake on your Steamroller frame, use a front standard reach caliper
on the front and rear of the bike. You'll need some extra mounting
hardware to secure the caliper to the seat stay bridge (see photo). The
front mounts normally. We also cannot guarantee the calipers will allow
tire clearance for 700c x 38mm tires.
