WestPine Style Brake Made By ImprovePart

We have faithfully recreated and further refined a legendary brake system from the 1990s — the WestPine Brake.

    Inspired by the classic U-brake structure, the WestPine features a bottom-mounted booster design, making it compatible with standard V-brake mounts. Its most distinctive characteristic is the parallelogram brake arm linkage — a rare design combined with CNC-machined retro aesthetics and striking anodized finishes, bringing a bold yet timeless mechanical presence to any build.

    In terms of cost efficiency and ultimate braking performance, it does not compete directly with modern V-brakes. It requires more tuning, patience, and a certain level of mechanical understanding, possibly even minor modification. However, for those who value mechanical expression, aesthetic proportion, and the spirit of vintage cycling, it offers a uniquely satisfying and deeply engaging experience.

**Major Upgrades**

1. Redesigned Return Spring Mechanism**

    The original structure used a single spring connecting the tops of both brake arms, meaning one spring simultaneously controlled the left and right arms. In real-world use, we found that this setup could easily lose balance under small bumps or vibration — one arm would stay against the rim while the other would spring fully away, requiring manual readjustment.

    We redesigned the return system using a straight steel spring structure similar to that of a V-brake, allowing each brake arm to rely on its own independent spring for adjustment.

    This eliminates the instability of the original single-spring system at a structural level, enabling more precise tuning, more balanced force distribution, and significantly improved overall stability.

    This brake works best with short-pull V-brake levers. During testing, we found the braking force to be very strong. Therefore, we include a cable guide tube with a built-in force-release mechanism (similar to the Shimano PM40). In simple terms, there is a spring inside the housing — when braking force becomes excessive, the spring activates to release part of the force, preventing wheel lock-up.

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2. U-Brake Compatibility**

    During the design phase, we redefined the pivot diameter and spacing to ensure compatibility with traditional U-brake mountain bike frames, expanding application possibilities for vintage builds.

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3. Multiple Brake Pad Mounting Options**

    We offer both canti pad and V-brake pad configurations.

For the V-brake pad version, a set of extended titanium brake pad bolts is included to accommodate different rim widths.

    Recommended rim width range: 22mm – 45mm.

    The brake is without brake Pad.

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    We also offer laser engraving customization. Names or logos can be engraved onto the brake arch. The engraving appears in white, adding a personalized and premium touch.

ImprovePart team

  If any questions, please contact us.