Cane Creek SCR-5 Vs. SCR-5C

The Cane Creek SCR-5 and SCR-5C are aero drop bar brake levers made by Tektro under the Cane Creek brand name. Although nearly identical in terms of form and characteristics, the SCR-5C lever offers a more compact variation of the SCR-5 design. The shorter reach of the 5C lever is intended to accommodate riders with smaller hands and fingers.

  1. Composition and Appearance

    • Both models feature cold-forged 6061 aluminum alloy levers and resin bodies, which lend a sturdy, confident feel. Each model has a textured rubber brake hood, offered in black or a tan "gum" color. There are several color combinations available, with each hood color coupled with either polished silver or black lever bodies.

    Mass

    • The SCR-5 and SCR-5C are virtually indistinguishable in terms of mass, weighting 267 and 263 grams, respectively, according to the manufacturer. Considering this minute difference in mass is undetectable and can be negated by the weight of a piece of chewing gum, weight economy should be a consideration in your decision between the two models.

    Levers

    • Both the SCR-5 and SCR-5C feature contoured levers fitted individually for the left and right hands. The only prominent difference between the two models is the length of the lever mechanism. According to the famed Harris Cyclery, the SCR-5 is reputedly very comfortable for riders with particularly large hands. Conversely, the SCR-5C is designed to allow riders with smaller hands to keep their fingers comfortably and safely at the ready for any braking situation.

    Other Considerations

    • Both models are priced equally by Cane Creek, so the decision between the two should be based strictly on your personal comfort. They are particularly well suited to riders looking to upgrade the braking performance of an older road bike without installing new calipers. Both lever models have a quick release pin on the lever body, which will allow you to remove your wheel without letting air out of the tire, even if you use wider tires or brake calipers without a quick release switch.