Tektro RL721
Tektro

Tektro RL721

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Tektro RL721 top-mount brake levers are forged aluminum, 90g/pair, with hinge clamp, return spring and reach adjustment — a lightweight, durable choice for cantilever and caliper setups.

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Product Details

Overview & Technology

Tektro RL721 is a purpose-built top-mount brake lever pair for cyclocross and drop‑bar bikes running cantilever or caliper brakes. The levers are forged from aluminum for an excellent strength-to-weight ratio and finished in matte black to resist corrosion and road grime. The hinge‑clamp design simplifies installation on 31.8mm bars and the integrated return spring provides positive, reliable lever feel in muddy conditions. A built‑in reach adjust lets you tune blade position for different glove sizes and race-day conditions, delivering confident modulation when it matters most.

Key Features & Real-World Benefits

Forged aluminum construction gives the RL721 high structural stiffness without unnecessary weight — at about 90g per pair, these levers shave grams while resisting flex under heavy braking, which improves control and modulation on technical CX courses. • Hinged clamp makes fitting and removing the levers fast and easy — great for swaps and mid-season adjustments. • Reach adjustment lets small- and large‑handed riders set blade position for power and comfort. • Return spring ensures consistent lever reset in wet, muddy or gritty CX conditions.

Fit & Compatibility

The RL721 is designed specifically for top‑mount installation on drop bars for use with traditional caliper and cantilever brake systems. The available variant features a 31.8mm hinged clamp — confirm your bar clamp diameter before ordering. These levers are not suited to long‑pull systems such as V‑brakes or many mechanical disc calipers that require a different cable pull ratio. They accept standard brake noodle/cable routing for cantilevers and conventional road calipers; cable and noodle accessories are sold separately.

Who It's For

The RL721 is aimed at cyclocross racers, gravel riders and road cyclists who need a dependable, lightweight top‑mount lever for caliper or cantilever brakes. It's ideal for riders who prioritize low weight, simple serviceability and a traditional mechanical setup. If you're converting a vintage or cyclocross bike with cantilever bosses, restoring a race bike, or seeking a light spare lever set for mud races and training, the RL721 offers a practical balance of performance and value.

Key Features

  • ✓ Forged aluminum lever blades for high stiffness and low weight
  • ✓ Top‑mount design built for caliper and cantilever brake systems
  • ✓ Hinged 31.8mm clamp for fast installation without full bar removal
  • ✓ Adjustable reach to fit different hand sizes and glove thicknesses
  • ✓ Integrated return spring ensures consistent lever reset in mud
  • ✓ Approximately 90g per pair — lightweight race-ready option

Specifications

Brake Lever Clamp Hinged clamp style
Brake Lever Comp. Caliper and cantilever brakes
Lever Blade Material Aluminum
Position Left and Right
Primary Color Black
Reach Adjust Yes

Product Identifiers

Vendor Item # ABBL000469
EAN 4717592009637

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these compatible with V‑brakes or long‑pull mechanical discs?

No. The RL721 levers are made for short‑pull caliper and cantilever systems and will not provide the correct cable pull for V‑brakes or many mechanical disc calipers that require long‑pull levers.

What clamp sizes are available?

The RL721 is offered with a 31.8mm hinged clamp variant. Confirm your handlebar clamp diameter before purchase; adapters for other sizes are not included.

How hard are they to install?

Installation is straightforward thanks to the hinged clamp: open the clamp, position on the bar, and tighten. You'll still need to route and tension the brake cable and set pad clearance, so basic mechanical skills or a shop tune are recommended.

Can I adjust reach on both levers?

Yes. Both left and right levers include reach adjustment, allowing you to set symmetric lever position for comfort and optimal braking leverage.

What maintenance do these levers require?

Periodic cleaning and a drop of light oil on the hinge and pivot will keep action crisp. Inspect clamp bolts and cable anchor for tightness before race days; replace worn cables and housing to maintain braking performance.

Do they come with brake noodles or cables?

No. The RL721 ships as levers only. You will need compatible noodle routing hardware and brake cables/housing for cantilever setups.

Buying Guide

Choosing top‑mount brake levers starts with compatibility: match the lever pull to your brake type (short‑pull for caliper/cantilever, long‑pull for V‑brakes). Pick a clamp diameter that fits your bars — 31.8mm is common on modern drop bars. Materials matter: forged aluminum offers superior stiffness and durability compared with cast or stamped alternatives, while keeping weight low. Look for reach adjustment if you frequently race in gloves or switch between riders, and prefer hinge clamps for ease of installation. Finally, remember that fresh cables, housing and appropriately shaped noodles make the biggest real‑world difference in stopping power and modulation.

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