Marketed as a road series, Jagwire Pro Cantilever pads aren’t compatible with the latest generation of wide-arm cross-type brakes but they are the perfect performance perk for older Shimano M-system brakes and others employing 7mm thread bolts. The cartridge design means they can be upgraded for something condition-specific should you prefer, but the standard compound has inspiring confidence in all weathers.

Jagwire claim these are compatible with all rim types (including ceramic and carbon), and they’re easy to fit – the long threaded studs offer ample adjustment while the pads align beautifully when employing the old strip-of-card trick. Fitted to my Univega’s Tektro/Dia Compe brakes, they have felt bang on from the outset, keeping the 90kg mass of bike, me and laden trailer fully in check without the faintest hint of squeal.

Three pronounced water channels undoubtedly enhance wet-weather prowess but they have a tendency to accumulate grit, evolving into a grinding paste given 20-odd miles of greasy backroads. That said, it’s no worse than you get with many other brands but make sure you inspect them regularly and chase debris clear with a toothpick.

Pad life is difficult to quantify and will vary according to rider weight, riding style and conditions, but early indications suggest the moderate compound should return a couple of season’s hard road service before retirement. Exchanging pads is simply a question of loosening the 2mm Allen key and slipping a fresh set in their place. Given that a complete set leaves change from £20, these are a smart choices for working, winter and cross mounts and they're capable of giving more exotic choices a good run for their money.

Verdict

Smart upgrades for older/budget cantilever brakesets

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Jagwire Pro Cantilever brake pads

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

"Superior braking performance

High-power with excellent modulation

Long-wearing

Excellent wet weather control"

Marketed as a road pad but they are capable enough performers when conditions get muddy.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
7/10
Rate the product for performance:
 
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
 
7/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
7/10
Rate the product for value:
 
8/10

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? Yes

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 37  Height: 1m 81  Weight: 70 kilos

I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset  My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Most days  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,