Dia-Compe (mod. 163) extension levers
I don't know how well this shows in the photo, but these levers are mounted on Nitto "Classic" drop bars (mod. B115), with a moderate outward flare toward the bottoms. These durable brake levers had their drop lever arms tilted outward - yes, the drop lever blades were actually BENT - to follow the contours of the Randonneur style bars on which they were mounted originally, which also flared - even more than these bars.
The brakes are still very solid, in spite of this manufacturer (or bike shop, or user) modification to the levers. I think it was nice that someone had taken the time to fit these levers so carefully to their intended bars. They were meant to be used for a long time and were not just a hasty afterthought. The extension arms are quite level with the bar top when pulled up.
After examining the design of these particular brake levers with obsessive attention, I'm really considering using them... with pride. They will always remain useful as a theft deterrent on any bike, since the style is always associated with cheap lower tier bikes...
DSCF3017a
Dia-Compe (mod. 163) extension levers
I don't know how well this shows in the photo, but these levers are mounted on Nitto "Classic" drop bars (mod. B115), with a moderate outward flare toward the bottoms. These durable brake levers had their drop lever arms tilted outward - yes, the drop lever blades were actually BENT - to follow the contours of the Randonneur style bars on which they were mounted originally, which also flared - even more than these bars.
The brakes are still very solid, in spite of this manufacturer (or bike shop, or user) modification to the levers. I think it was nice that someone had taken the time to fit these levers so carefully to their intended bars. They were meant to be used for a long time and were not just a hasty afterthought. The extension arms are quite level with the bar top when pulled up.
After examining the design of these particular brake levers with obsessive attention, I'm really considering using them... with pride. They will always remain useful as a theft deterrent on any bike, since the style is always associated with cheap lower tier bikes...
DSCF3017a