Dia-Compe 986 and 987

[michael franks]

How good (or bad) are these brakes? Is one set better than the other?
How do they compare to Shimano cantis? I've never used them myself and was just wondering. Thanks.

 

[jimo746]

I like them, find them quite easy to set up, coupled with some SS5 levers they're pretty good, also available in different colours.
I prefer the 987's myself.
I don't think they're any better than Shimano, just different.

 

[bikey :)]

I haven't used the 986 but I do use the 987. The main difference between the two types is that the 987 is lower profile. The arms don't stick out as much as the 986. What effect this would have on performance I don't know.
Performance of the 987 is probably as good as other well set up canti brakes of the period, with decent pads. The brake arm pivots on a steel sleeve rather than directly on the brake boss and the leg of the spring attaches to a nut rather than one of the holes at the back of the frame or fork bosses. This means that spring tension can be adjusted from either side.

 

[66 triumph daytona]

In the early 90s I ran 987s with SS7 levers on my downhill bike with Kool stops.I couldnt fault them and without doubt the best non super pricey/boutique set ups.Fit and forget.

 

[Silvergoat]

Re:

They're awesome and highly recommended.

I've been running the same Dia Compe SS7 levers and 986 cantis on the same bike, since originally installing them back in '92 when I first built my bike up.

With all those small parts, the 986 cantis could be a fiddle to set up, particularly on a day when the magic wasn't working but when done correctly, they could stop the bike on sixpence. Occasionally, I'd catch my heels on the rear canti arms. I think their wider profile allowed a more efficient pull/mechanical advantage with the arms and straddles being truly set at 90 degree angles. Very sadly, I had to retire my 986s a year ago as a couple of the coiled springs fatigued and I couldn't find replacements.

The SS7 levers are beautiful, comfortable levers and are still in use on the bike now – I couldn't bear to part with them after all this time. They're now combined with Avid 5-digit v-brakes which have been refitted with 72mm long Aztec pads. The Avids have been a revelation – both in being ridiculously easy to fit and in just how much stopping power they have.

Still, if I could find replacements and repair my 986s, there's a strong chance I'd fit them back on the bike...

 

[michael franks]

Re:

Thanks for all the opinions and information, all very helpful and informative. Further proof of what a great forum this is

 

[Benmac]

Re:

Loved my SS7s and purple 987s BITD, only changed them when Vs came along. Was reminicsing about them a while ago then happened upon them in a carrier bag in the shed when tidying up for a move. Must find a suitable home for them at some point.