BOX THREE MINI 85MM BRAKE CALIPER

Product Overview

The Box Three Mini 85mm Brake Caliper is a short-reach V-brake designed for BMX mini/cruiser bikes and cyclocross/gravel applications using linear-pull brake systems. Cold-forged and CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with up to 35mm of vertical pad adjustment, this brake provides powerful rim braking in a compact package. Includes Box Three Air Flow brake shoes with dual-compound pads and all necessary mounting hardware.

Key Features

• Cold-forged construction – Cold-forging process produces maximum strength and stiffness while minimizing weight compared to cast or machined-only designs
• 6061-T6 aluminum – Heat-treated aluminum alloy provides durability and corrosion resistance
• 85mm arm length – Short-reach "Mini-V" design provides appropriate mechanical advantage for drop-bar levers or compact BMX applications
• 35mm vertical pad adjustment – Extensive adjustment range accommodates different rim widths and allows precise pad positioning
• Box Three Air Flow brake shoes – Included brake pad assemblies feature dual-compound rubber for balanced grip and modulation
• Complete hardware kit – All mounting bolts, springs, and adjustment components included for installation

Technical Specifications

• Brake type: V-brake (linear-pull), Mini-V configuration
• Arm length: 85mm (short-reach)
• Material: 6061-T6 aluminum, cold-forged and CNC-machined
• Pad adjustment range: Up to 35mm vertical
• Weight: 196g (6.9 oz) per brake
• Brake size: Mini (85mm arm)
• Included: Box Three Air Flow brake shoes with dual-compound pads, mounting hardware
• Lever compatibility: Mini-V/short-pull levers, drop-bar levers

Compatibility and Ideal Use Cases

This brake fits frames and forks with V-brake/linear-pull brake bosses—two threaded posts spaced vertically on each side of the wheel. The 85mm arm length is designed for use with drop-bar brake levers (road/cyclocross) or short-pull BMX levers, not standard long-pull V-brake levers. The reduced mechanical advantage compared to 108mm V-brakes matches the cable pull of drop-bar levers for proper braking performance. Not compatible with disc brake mounts or cantilever brake posts. Verify your frame has V-brake bosses and you have compatible levers before ordering.

Best suited for BMX mini/cruiser riders using rim brakes, cyclocross riders, or gravel cyclists who want powerful rim braking with drop-bar lever compatibility. The 85mm arm length provides adequate braking power while working correctly with the shorter cable pull of drop-bar levers. The 35mm pad adjustment range accommodates various rim widths and tire clearances. The included dual-compound brake shoes provide balanced performance without requiring separate pad purchase. Ideal for mini BMX racing, cyclocross racing, gravel riding, or urban/commuter bikes with drop bars. The cold-forged construction delivers performance and durability for demanding riding. Important: Verify brake lever compatibility—85mm "Mini-V" brakes require drop-bar levers or short-pull levers, not standard V-brake levers. Using incompatible levers results in either weak braking (if lever pull is too short) or excessive lever travel (if lever pull is too long). When installing, adjust pad toe-in (front edge slightly closer to rim) to reduce squeal and improve modulation. Check brake pad alignment regularly to ensure pads contact the rim surface without touching the tire.