Brake Cables & Covers

In this category, you will find brake cables and brake housings for mechanical rim and disc brakes on bicycles. The range includes high-quality cables and housings from Shimano, Jagwire, Alligator, Clarks, SRAM, Avid, Tektro, and BBB – suitable for road bikes, mountain bikes, trekking bikes, and city bikes. Whether you are looking for a single replacement cable, a complete set, or a wear-resistant housing: all products are designed for durability and precise braking performance and are delivered quickly throughout Switzerland.

Buy Brake Cables & Housings Online

Brake cables and housings are among the most important wear parts on a bicycle. Timely replacement ensures safe and controlled braking – especially in wet conditions and on challenging terrain. In our range, you will find universal and manufacturer-specific cables, coated variants for reduced friction, as well as complete sets with end caps and cable housings. This allows you to easily maintain your mechanical brakes yourself and maximize braking performance.

Types of Brake Cables and Housings

The range essentially distinguishes between standard stainless steel brake cables and coated cables with Teflon or silicone coating. The latter reduce friction inside the housing and improve modulation. Brake housings are available in various thicknesses and designs – from tinned steel housings to Kevlar-reinforced versions and color-coordinated variants. Sets are also available that include end caps, guides, and seals in addition to the cable and housing.

Compatibility and Installation

Before purchasing, check whether your brake system works with standard cables and what diameter the housing must have. Shimano and SRAM brakes usually use 5 mm housings, while older or simpler brakes sometimes use 4 mm housings. Also pay attention to the correct length: Most cables are supplied in extra length and can be shortened with sharp side cutters or special cable cutters. With the right end caps, you can prevent the housing from fraying and ensure a clean look.

Top Brands

Shimano Jagwire Alligator Clarks SRAM Avid Tektro BBB

Brands Compared

Brand	Known for	Ideal for	Price Segment
Shimano	Original spare parts, complete cable sets	Shimano riders	Mid-range – Premium
Jagwire	High-quality cables with special coating	Performance-oriented riders	Mid-range
Alligator	Durable cables and housings with Teflon	Road bike and MTB users	Mid-range – Premium
Clarks	Solid and reliable sets	Everyday riders, workshops	Entry-level – Mid-range
SRAM	Brake cables and housings for SRAM components	SRAM riders	Mid-range – Premium
Avid	Tuned for Avid brakes	Avid users, older models	Mid-range
Tektro	Beginner-friendly and universal brake cables	Beginners and city bike riders	Entry-level – Mid-range
BBB	Accessories and cables in Dutch design	Quality-oriented users	Entry-level – Mid-range

Who Is This Category Suitable For?

This category is aimed at anyone who wants to maintain or upgrade their mechanical bicycle brakes – from hobby mechanics and regular commuters to professional bike shops in Switzerland. Those looking for a suitable spare part for their own brand or a high-quality upgrade will find components here for all common brake systems.

Quality, Material, and Durability

High-quality brake cables made of stainless steel and durable housings with internal lubricating coating increase service life and ensure a smoother braking feel. A quality cable is particularly worthwhile when riding frequently in the rain or off-road – it remains smoother to operate and reliably protects against corrosion. When purchasing, look for complete sets with matching end caps to ensure clean installation and long-term safe function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brake cables and housings fit my bike?▾

Compatibility depends on the brake system. Mechanical rim and disc brakes from Shimano, SRAM, or Avid mostly use standard cables with 5 mm housings. Check the diameter of your existing housing and choose a suitable set – many housings are universally applicable.

What is the difference between a brake cable and a shift cable?▾

Brake cables are thicker and stronger than shift cables because they have to withstand higher forces. A shift cable must never be used as a brake cable, as it could break under the load. When purchasing, pay specific attention to the description as a brake cable.

How long do brake cables and housings need to be?▾

The required length depends on the bike type and routing. Many cables are offered in lengths of 2 m or more and can be shortened as needed. Measure the old housing or cable and add a few centimeters of reserve to be able to cut cleanly.

What should I pay attention to when replacing brake cables and housings?▾

Use sharp side cutters or special Bowden cable cutters to prevent fraying. Always place fresh end caps on the cut housing ends and lightly grease the cable before inserting it into the housing. Pull the brake cables several times after installation and check that the clamping is secure.

Which brands offer the best value for money?▾

Clarks and BBB deliver solid brake cable sets at a moderate price. Jagwire and Alligator score with high-quality coating and long durability in the mid-price segment. Shimano and SRAM original cables are the safe choice for perfect coordination with the respective system.

Can I use brake housings for hydraulic brakes?▾

No, hydraulic brakes work with a closed oil or DOT fluid line. Brake cables and housings are exclusively suitable for mechanical brakes. For your hydraulic system, use the lines and bleeding kits specified by the manufacturer.

How often should you replace brake cables and housings?▾

This depends on riding performance and environmental conditions. For daily use and riding in the rain, replacement is recommended every one to two years or as soon as the braking feel becomes spongy or the cable becomes difficult to move. A visual check for rust and kinks indicates the need for action early on.

What do the different colors and coatings on brake housings mean?▾

The color is usually an optical customization and has no influence on the function. Coatings such as Teflon or silicone reduce friction and keep dirt away. High-quality housings also have Kevlar reinforcement, which increases compressive stability and prevents compression when braking.