Avid FR-5
FR-5
Avid

Avid FR-5

In Stock

Avid FR-5 is a lightweight, flat-rate aluminum brake lever made for cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes. Reversible, reach-adjustable and built to fit standard 22.2mm MTB bars for front or rear use.

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Available Options

Option Price Availability
Avid, FR-5 Brake Lever, Black, Unit Right/Left — In Stock
Avid, FR-5, Brake lever, Silver, Unit, Left or right — In Stock

Product Details

Overview & Technology

Avid FR-5 lever delivers dependable, no-nonsense stopping power for cable-actuated mountain bike brakes. The FR-5 uses a flat-rate lever geometry tuned for predictable modulation and a consistent cable pull — a practical match for Avid mechanical disc systems and other linear-pull brakes. Constructed with an aluminum lever blade and a 22.2mm clamp, the FR-5 keeps weight low (155g) while staying stiff and durable for trail use, commuting or everyday replacements. The lever is reversible and includes reach adjustment so you can fine-tune bite point and hand position without changing handlebars.

Key Features & Benefits

The FR-5's design focuses on practical, workshop-friendly details that improve the ride without adding complication. The flat-rate geometry gives a linear feel that many riders prefer for predictable modulation and easy setup with mechanical disc calipers like Avid's own models. • Aluminum lever blade: light and rigid for consistent feel and long service life. • 22.2mm clamp: fits standard mountain/flat bars and accepts front or rear placement. • Reversible design: install as left or right without special parts. • Reach adjust: fine-tune lever position to match hand size and glove thickness. • Flat-rate geometry: deliberate, predictable power delivery for cable-actuated systems.

Fit, Compatibility & Installation

The FR-5 is engineered for linear-pull and mechanical disc brake systems — it is not compatible with hydraulic brakes. The 22.2mm clamp matches standard MTB and flat handlebars; use a clamp shim or adapter if your bars are a different diameter. The lever works equally well as a front or rear lever and is sold as single units in left or right options, available in black or silver finishes. Installation is straightforward: mount to the bar, route the brake cable to the appropriate caliper (or V-brake), set cable tension, and fine-tune reach. The FR-5 pairs particularly well with Avid mechanical disc calipers (e.g., BB5/BB7 family) and other linear-pull designs that accept standard cable pull ratios.

Who the Avid FR-5 Is For

The FR-5 is for mountain riders who want a simple, durable replacement or upgrade lever for mechanical disc brakes — racers on a budget, commuters who value reliability, or trail riders running a mechanical setup. Its light aluminum construction and adjustable ergonomics also make it a good choice for bikes where weight and control matter. If you run hydraulic brakes, the FR-5 isn't appropriate; but if your bike relies on cable-actuated stopping power and you want a rugged, easy-to-service lever with predictable feel, the FR-5 is an economical and proven option.

Key Features

  • ✓ Flat-rate lever geometry for predictable modulation and consistent cable pull
  • ✓ Aluminum lever blade — lightweight yet stiff at a street/trail-ready 155g
  • ✓ 22.2mm clamp fits standard MTB/flat handlebars front or rear
  • ✓ Reversible design lets you install as left or right without extra parts
  • ✓ Reach adjust lets riders fine-tune bite point for hand size and gloves
  • ✓ Specifically matched to Avid mechanical disc and linear-pull brake systems
  • ✓ Available in Black or Silver as single left/right units

Specifications

Brake Lever Clamp 22.2mm
Brake Lever Comp. For linear pull or mechanical disc brakes
Lever Blade Material Aluminum
Position Front or Rear
Primary Color Black

Product Identifiers

Vendor Item # 00.5215.026.010
UPC 710845642005

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Avid FR-5 compatible with hydraulic brakes?

No. The FR-5 is designed for cable-actuated linear-pull and mechanical disc brakes. Hydraulic systems use different actuation and master cylinders, so you should not attempt to pair this lever with hydraulic calipers.

Will this lever fit my handlebars?

The FR-5 clamps to a 22.2mm bar diameter, which is standard for most mountain and flat handlebars. If your bar diameter is different, a shim or dedicated clamp adapter may be required.

Can I use the FR-5 for front and rear brakes?

Yes. The lever is position-neutral and reversible, so the same FR-5 unit can be installed on the left or right for front or rear control. It’s sold as single units in left or right options.

Does the FR-5 include brake cable and housing?

No. The FR-5 is a replacement lever only. You’ll need to provide brake cable, housing, and any specific caliper hardware separately when installing.

How do I adjust reach on the FR-5?

The FR-5 features reach adjustment to move the lever closer or farther from the bar to suit your hand size. Adjustment typically requires a small tool (hex or screwdriver depending on model). Check the lever for the adjuster screw and consult the manual or a mechanic if unsure.

Which mechanical disc brakes pair best with this lever?

The FR-5 is an ideal match for Avid's mechanical disc calipers (and similar linear-pull designs) because the cable pull and leverage are configured for cable-actuated systems. It pairs well with Avid BB5/BB7 style calipers and many V-brake/linear-pull setups.

Buying Guide

When choosing a replacement brake lever for a mechanical disc or linear-pull setup, prioritize cable compatibility, clamp diameter, and ergonomics. Confirm that the lever is designed for cable-actuated systems (not hydraulic), choose the correct clamp size (22.2mm is standard for MTB bars), and pick left/right units as needed. Adjustable reach and a reversible mount make installation easier and allow you to dial in lever feel for your hand size. Material and construction matter: aluminum blades like the FR-5 balance weight and stiffness for a responsive feel without fragility. If you’re replacing a worn lever or upgrading a commuter or trail bike, keep spare cables and a basic tool kit on hand to complete installation and setup properly.

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