Flat Bar Brake Levers: Types, Differences, and How to Choose

Types of Brake Levers for Flat Bars

Brake levers for flat bars can be categorized based on the following three factors:

1. Brake System
2. Single or Dual Control Lever
3. Grip (Finger Type)

While the levers may look similar in shape, their functionality and usability differ significantly.

Types of Brake Systems

Brake systems used in MTBs, hybrid bikes, and road bikes fall into three categories:

1. Mechanical
2. Hydraulic
3. Hybrid (mechanical cable pull with hydraulic caliper)

Each system requires a compatible brake lever and cannot be interchanged (only hybrid systems are compatible with mechanical levers). Therefore, once you choose the brake caliper, the type of brake lever is essentially decided.

For example, in Shimano’s MTB components, all models above the SLX level use hydraulic brake calipers, meaning hydraulic brake levers are required.

On the other hand, mid-range and entry-level MTBs and hybrid bikes mainly use mechanical disc brakes or V-brakes, so mechanical brake levers are the standard choice.

Most mechanical brake levers are designed for V-brakes. However, since many mechanical disc brakes are designed to match the pull ratio of V-brake levers, they are generally compatible.

Single / Dual Control Levers

Shimano offers dual control levers that combine both the brake lever and the shifter into one unit. The key difference lies in whether the shifter is integrated into the brake lever.

While dual control levers are often associated with road bike STI levers, flat bar bikes also have dual control lever options.

However, these dual control levers are only available in lower-end product lines and are not compatible with higher-end components like 12-speed or 11-speed systems.

As a result, if you plan to use high-end MTB components, you will need to opt for single brake levers and purchase the shifters separately.

Grip (Finger Type)

Unlike STI levers for road bikes, flat bar brake levers come in different types based on the number of fingers used to operate them.

For example, hydraulic brake levers, which allow for easy braking with minimal force, are commonly designed for 2-finger or 2.5-finger operation. In contrast, lower-end models often use 3-finger levers.

How to Choose Brake Levers for Flat Bars

Start by Choosing the Brake System

For modern MTB and hybrid bikes, the cost of components varies depending on whether you choose a hydraulic or mechanical brake system. Naturally, hydraulic systems are more expensive.

With hydraulic brakes, you’ll typically need to build around a “high-end MTB disc brake system,” which often requires replacing most of your bike components—or even the entire bike. This setup usually involves using high-grade components.

On the other hand, mechanical brake systems offer broader compatibility, working with both disc brakes and V-brakes. They are also compatible with a wide range of entry- to mid-level components.

The choice between the two systems also impacts maintenance costs.

Hydraulic systems require special tools and hydraulic oil, and maintenance differs significantly from mechanical systems. In most cases, you’ll need to rely on a professional bike shop. They are also more delicate—for instance, squeezing the brake lever without a wheel installed can cause the pads to stick and not return properly.

Mechanical systems, in contrast, use a traditional cable-pull design. Anyone can perform maintenance with guidance from the manufacturer’s manual, and adjustments can be done easily even on the go.

As you can see, your choice of brake system significantly affects “cost,” “component grade,” and “ease of maintenance.” So, it’s essential to decide on this first.

Choose Your Component Grade

Unlike STI levers for road bikes where brakes and shifters are integrated, flat bar setups use separate brake levers and shifters. This allows for more flexibility in component combinations.

For example, you can pair a high-end SLX hydraulic brake system with a 9-speed ALIVIO drivetrain.

The grade of brake components should reflect how much braking performance you require from your MTB or hybrid bikes. If you want more confidence and easier braking, going with higher-grade brake components is definitely a viable option.

Choose the Right Finger Type

When riding an MTB or hybrid bikes, you’ll spend a significant amount of time operating the brakes. That’s why the feel of the brake lever—how it fits your fingers—is critically important. When choosing brake levers, be sure to consider the finger type as well.

While you can pull a 3-finger lever with just two fingers (and vice versa), using a mismatched lever may cause your fingers to get pinched or feel uncomfortable during braking. Selecting the lever that best suits your grip is always the better choice.

The number of fingers used also affects performance depending on the riding situation. For example, in downhill riding, where it’s essential to maintain a firm grip while braking, 2-finger levers are the standard. In some cases, riders even brake with just their index finger.

On the other hand, for relaxed city riding, where you’re often keeping your hands on the brakes, wider 3-finger levers can feel more comfortable and easy to use.

Since your braking style can vary depending on the riding context—and comfort preferences differ from person to person—it’s a good idea to visit a bike shop, try out different brake levers, and find the finger type that feels best for you.