DIA-COMPE 166E-PR Nos Road Brake Extension Levers Left Right Diacompe P/n

( Brand: Dia-compe ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 166E-PR ), ( Type: Brake Levers ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Color: Silver ), ( Material: Aluminum ), ( For Bike Type: Road Bike Touring ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan ), ( Part Type: Brake Lever ), ( Vintage: Yes )

Review DIA COMPE Vtg Nos Road Brake Extension Levers Only Left Right Pair P/n

The **Dia-Compe 166E-PR Vintage NOS Road Brake Extension Levers (Left & Right, Part Number)** represent a meticulously crafted, high-performance cycling component designed to elevate the braking experience on vintage-style road frames while maintaining the authenticity of classic aesthetics. These levers are a direct descendant of Dia-Compe s legendary 166 series, renowned for their precision engineering and timeless design, and are built to seamlessly integrate with modern disc brake systems while preserving the nostalgic charm of older mechanical setups. Crafted from high-grade aluminum, the levers feature a robust yet lightweight construction, ensuring durability without compromising on the weight-sensitive demands of road cycling. The ergonomic shape of the levers is inspired by the classic Dia-Compe design, with a slightly curved profile that offers a comfortable, natural grip, allowing riders to maintain control and leverage during aggressive braking maneuvers. The **PR (Pneumatic Release)** designation indicates these levers are compatible with Dia-Compe s pneumatic brake levers, which utilize a sealed, air-filled system for smooth, consistent cable operation eliminating the need for frequent cable adjustments and reducing the risk of corrosion. The **166E** variant specifically emphasizes a refined, slightly more aggressive lever profile compared to earlier models, catering to riders who prefer a firmer, more responsive feel while maintaining the vintage-inspired look. The **NOS (New Old Stock)** designation ensures these levers are either brand new with a vintage appearance or have been carefully restored to original condition, complete with the original packaging, manuals, or documentation where applicable. Perfect for enthusiasts restoring classic road bikes or those seeking a blend of modern braking technology with retro styling, these levers are an ideal choice for riders who appreciate both form and function. Whether paired with a modern disc brake system or integrated into a fully restored vintage rig, the Dia-Compe 166E-PR levers deliver a harmonious fusion of heritage and performance, making them a coveted addition to any high-end cycling setup.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Dia-Compe 166E-PR Vintage NOS Road Brake Extension Levers (Left & Right, P/N)**

1. **Authentic Vintage Fitment** These levers are designed to replicate the look and function of original 1970s 1980s road bike brake levers, making them ideal for restomod builds or period-correct rides.

2. **High-Quality Materials** Dia-Compe is known for durable, well-engineered components, and NOS (New Old Stock) parts are often in excellent condition, with minimal wear or aging.

3. **Ergonomic and Comfortable** The curved, vintage-style design provides a more natural grip compared to modern straight-bar levers, which some riders prefer for comfort and control.

4. **Compatibility with Classic Components** Works seamlessly with vintage brake systems (e.g., Dia-Compe, Shimano, or Campagnolo) and frame mounts from the same era.

5. **Aesthetic Appeal** Adds a nostalgic, high-end look to a bike, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts who value authenticity.

6. **Reliable Performance** Like most NOS Dia-Compe parts, these levers are built to last, with smooth cable operation and sturdy construction.

7. **Easy to Install** Designed to fit standard brake cable routing, making installation straightforward for those familiar with bike mechanics.

1. **Limited Modern Compatibility** If you re using a modern frame or brake system (e.g., disc brakes, carbon forks, or ultra-thin handlebars), these levers may not fit as intended or may require adapters.

2. **Potential for Wear or Damage** Even NOS parts may show signs of age (e.g., slight rust, worn cable stops, or minor cosmetic flaws), though this is usually cosmetic and doesn t affect function.

3. **Higher Cost Compared to Modern Alternatives** Vintage NOS parts are often priced higher than contemporary replicas or aftermarket options, which may not justify the expense for casual riders.

4. **Less Availability of Spare Parts** If something goes wrong, finding replacement parts or service manuals for a 50-year-old component can be difficult.

5. **Ergonomic Mismatch for Some Riders** The vintage design may not suit riders with smaller hands or those accustomed to modern, more aggressive grip angles.

6. **Potential for Inconsistent Quality** Since these are NOS, there s a chance the levers may have been stored improperly, leading to issues like rust, stiff cables, or misaligned cable stops.

7. **Not Ideal for Performance Tuning** Unlike modern levers with adjustable reach or drop, these are fixed in design, limiting customization for personal preference.

---

The **Dia-Compe 166E-PR NOS brake levers** are an excellent choice if you prioritize **authenticity, vintage aesthetics, and compatibility with classic bike setups**. They offer a premium, high-quality feel and are well-suited for restomod projects, collectors, or riders who appreciate the look and ergonomics of older road bike components. However, they may not be practical for modern builds, performance-focused riders, or those on a tight budget.

If you re restoring a vintage bike or building a period-correct rig, these levers are a worthwhile investment. For everyday riding or modern setups, consider modern replicas (e.g., Dia-Compe s own modern versions or aftermarket alternatives) for better compatibility and cost efficiency.

- **Buy if:** You re restoring a vintage bike, value NOS authenticity, and don t mind paying a premium for classic components.

- **Skip if:** You re using a modern frame/bike, prefer adjustability or ergonomics over nostalgia, or want a more budget-friendly option.

- **Alternative Consideration:** If you like the vintage look but want modern reliability, look for **Dia-Compe s contemporary 166E levers** or high-quality replicas from brands like **FSA, Shimano (Deore), or Campagnolo (Pista)**.

Details:

Extension Levers Only. Please review all photos for details and overall condition, before making a purchase. Pair of Left Right. To recycle and keep shipping costs down, we reuse boxes, including clean food packages grocery story plastic bags for safe packaging of items.

part #: 166e prices

• $20.00-$108.02

specifications vintagebikepartiz:

• brand: Dia-compe
• mpn: 166e-pr
• type: Brake Levers
• unit type: Unit
• color: Silver
• material: Aluminum
• for bike type: Road Bike Touring
• country of origin: Japan
• part type: Brake Lever
• vintage: Yes

returns vintagebikepartiz:

• policy: No Returns

offer vintagebikepartiz:

• started: June 1, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock

payments vintagebikepartiz:

• other
• wallet: Google-pay
• credit card: Diners-club
• money order

seller vintagebikepartiz:

• city: Waycross, Georgia
• # reviews: 772
• rating: 99.5%

shipping vintagebikepartiz:

• class: Standard
• transit: 4-11 Days
• cost: $6.07
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• carrier: USPS
• type: Calculated

general vintagebikepartiz:

• Cycling > Vintage Cycling > Vintage Bicycle Parts

Dia-compe 166E Is Similar To:

• D-003 D-003 Dia-compe Vintage Center Pull (35.4% similar) These mount to the left side of your rear-facing seat binder bolt. This one does not include the original bag as shown in photos. Minty new-old-stock. I am Canadian living close to the Canada-USA and utilize services of USPS save you for your convenience. Dia-compere quick release cable stop hanger ...(August 8th, 2017)
• 03-30-87 Dia-compe Vintage Dia Compe Brake (30.8% similar) This is a new old stock vintage Dia-compe brake cable housing white shows some wear from storage, dirt, dust, dark spots. Housing is approx. 45 inches long...(March 3rd, 2017)
• Vtg Used Bmx 890 Dia Brake School Black 03-84 Front Vintage Compe (28.8% similar) Has very few scratches. I am willing to combine shipping costs for winners of multiple offers. Came off a 1984 cycle pro. A used, vintage dia compe 890 front brake. Still a very serviceable part for your survivor build, or polish the hardware and have a fine brake for your show bike...(February 19th, 2015)
• 05-01-87 Dia-compe Nos Vintage Dia (31.1% similar) ...(July 13th, 2017)
• 05-04-87 Dia-compe Used Rt Rear Vintage (34.6% similar) ...(March 2nd, 2017)
• 05-19-86 Dia-compe Nos Left Front (39.7% similar) ...(May 16th, 2017)
• 1020-1080 Dia Compe Old School (18.6% similar) Shipping world wide shipping safe sound quick 35. Nice survivor annoy blue dia compe 1080 rear front calipers w levers stamped cable marketing, listing apps, application. These need a detailed cleaning have few small nicks, overall really nice set up, please see pictures for condition...(June 27th, 2017)
• 1268 Dia Compe 4 Rear (23.9% similar) 4- dia compe 1268 rear cable hangers with adjusters...(July 21st, 2017)
• 128 Tech6 Dia-compe Nos 128 Lever Front-left (40.9% similar) It is kind of a pastel green, kinda like the green on 80S harp freestyles. The lever does not look to have really any shelf wear even. There is some black spotting you can see in the pics. Up for sale is a nos green Dia-compe 128 TECH6 front locking lever...(February 25th, 2017)
• 1285b Dia-compe Vintage Dia Compe (29.8% similar) Vintage front dia compe 400 GX brake caliper road bike fully functional used with normal wear and tear including minor nicks scratches. The brake shoes are not original but they new...(December 14th, 2017)
• 131-22p Nos Dia Compe Silver Lever Set Bmx Mtb Old (42% similar) ...(April 11th, 2018)