Miche's RS rim brakes are constructed using a special lightweight alloy that’s forged and then CNC machined to minimise weight. The body is hard anodized to keep them looking good for longer – and that surface is certainly hard.
The tough, light, quality approach continues in the rest of the construction with the first pivot and pivot screws built from Ergal 7075 alloy, and the second pivot using titanium. The dual pivot action is controlled by double coil springs, and manifests itself at the lever with plenty of resistance and feel when braking.
- Highs: The RSs have a great feel and are beautifully made and finished
- Lows: Not as powerful as the competition
The RS’s design isn’t ‘truly’ compatible with the latest super-wide rims from the likes of Zipp, Easton, ENVE or Reynolds. The brake from pad-to-pad (standard items) is around 28mm; the Zipp 404 Firestrikes on our test bike are 26.4mm wide, so there’s not much room with standard pads.
Zipp’s pads are, however, thinner than standard so on the bike it’s much less of an issue. We also ran the cable quick releases turned down to around eight o’clock rather than straight down at six to open the brakes a little more.
All adjustment screws are stainless steel so they won’t bind or corrode and the brake pad carriers are lightweight skeletal alloy with titanium hardware. It all adds up to a minimal 282g a pair – lighter than Shimano’s Dura-Ace (300g) and Campagnolo's Record Skeleton Ds (320g).
Pricewise they bear direct comparison to Dura-Ace, SRAM Red and Record Skeleton D. Both Shimano and SRAM’s offerings feel more powerful though, thanks to the more modern design. The RSes feel on a par power-wise with the Campagnolos, and have the same smooth quality. They have the advantage of a QR on the cable stop so, unlike the Record brakes, you can use these on any Shimano, SRAM or Campag drivetrain.
