It's so much easier to use than the regular brake noodle thing. I think - but then they probably wouldn't be as stiff, and they are still lighter than any Shimano brakes. They are very easy to adjust and the pads have a good durability. If anyone is looking for V'brakes, can t go wrong with the ones. They worth every dime I spent with .
Levers alone are a great improvement.
No need to swithch pads, they work great in all conditions without squeel. The noodle and red quick release thing are a bit of a pain. I kept my old noodle because the red bit didn't seem to accomodate an teflon impregnated cable. Not a bid deal though. Only used on a few rides, not but this brake system works great.