Avid Shorty Ultimate Front Brake - Black

The Avid Shorty Ultimate Front Brake is a cyclocross-specific brake designed to provide an ideal b...

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Product Information

Full details

The Avid Shorty Ultimate Front Brake is a high-performance, cyclocross-specific braking solution engineered for competitive riders who prioritize a precise balance between raw stopping power, modulation, and weight savings. Its standout feature is the adjustable stance design, which allows for versatile setup based on varying trail conditions, though users should be prepared for the specialized setup required to dial in the dual-position performance.

All features

SeriesShorty Ultimate
Model Part NumberAV502803
BrandAvid

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Does this brake work with STI road levers?

Yes, the Shorty Ultimate is designed to be compatible with most road-style cyclocross levers, though ensure your lever pull ratio matches the brake setup.

Can I use standard mountain bike brake pads?

No, this brake is designed specifically for road-style cartridge pads.

What is the weight of the brake?

The Avid Shorty Ultimate weighs approximately 115g.

Is this a front or rear brake?

This specific model is the Front Brake version.

How do I switch between wide and narrow stance?

The conversion is handled by swapping the position of the brake arms or adjusting the cable anchor point; refer to the included technical manual for your specific model year's configuration.

Troubleshooting

Brake arms are rubbing the rim unevenly

Adjust the spring tension screws located on the sides of each brake arm until they return to center uniformly.

Braking feels mushy or lacks power

Check your stance configuration; a narrow stance typically provides more power. Also, ensure the straddle wire is set at the lowest possible height that still clears the tire.

Quick-release lever is difficult to operate

Clean the quick-release mechanism with a degreaser, dry it, and apply a drop of lightweight bicycle lubricant to the pivot point.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Highly adjustable geometry for specific course conditions
  • Excellent mud clearance for harsh cyclocross environments
  • Extremely lightweight design at 115g
  • Convenient tool-free quick-release system

Cons

  • Requires mechanical knowledge for precise setup
  • Not compatible with disc-brake specific forks
  • Requires frequent adjustments if swapping between stance configurations

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Installing the Shorty Ultimate requires standard cantilever brake bosses on your cyclocross fork. During setup, ensure the straddle wire height is adjusted correctly to match the chosen stance. Use a 5mm hex wrench for mounting the arms and ensure the springs are tensioned equally on both sides to provide centered braking.

For care, keep the pivot points clean and lightly lubricated with a bicycle-specific dry lubricant to prevent seizure. Regularly inspect the cartridge pads for wear, especially after riding in gritty, sandy conditions, and replace them once the wear indicators are no longer visible. When cleaning the bike, avoid high-pressure water near the pivots to preserve the integrity of the internal springs.

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