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Avid FR-5 Single Lever Right/Left — main product image
Avid

Avid FR-5 Single Lever Right/Left

★★★★★4.5 (327 reviews)

A reversible, reach-adjustable lever that brings reliable mechanical disc braking to any MTB handlebar setup without breaking the bank.

$17.27*
✓ In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Avid FR-5 is a mechanical disc brake lever built for riders who want dependable stopping power without the maintenance overhead of a hydraulic system. Its natural home is paired with the Avid BB7 — one of the most trusted mechanical disc calipers on the market — making it a common choice for trail bikes, commuters, and touring setups where simplicity and serviceability matter more than ultimate feel. The reversible design is a genuinely practical feature: rather than stocking separate left and right levers, one unit handles both positions, which matters when you're ordering parts or building on a budget.

Construction centers on an aluminum lever blade and alloy clamp body, giving the FR-5 a more confidence-inspiring feel than plastic-bodied alternatives at similar price points. The reach adjuster is straightforward — a small screw repositions the blade's rest position relative to the bar — and makes a real difference for riders with compact hands. Installation is standard: clamp onto a 22.2mm diameter bar section, route your cable, and set reach. Ongoing ownership is equally uncomplicated. Cable tension adjustments use the standard barrel adjuster, and replacement cables are universally available. For riders who want a brake lever that works, stays working, and doesn't demand specialist attention, the FR-5 delivers exactly that.

Key Features

Optimized for mechanical disc brakes, the Avid FR-5 Single Lever offers precise, reliable control with a sleek black aluminum construction for durability and style.

Reversible design with reach adjustment allows for customized fit and compatibility with both left and right MTB brake setups, enhancing rider comfort and versatility.

Engineered with lightweight materials, the FR-5 lever weighs just 78 grams, providing a responsive feel without adding excess weight to your handlebars during aggressive trail rides or daily commutes.

Compatible with SRAM BL-FR-5-A1 model, this flat-rate lever integrates seamlessly with Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes, ensuring smooth modulation and consistent braking performance.

Designed for mountain biking and trail riding, the FR-5 lever's durable aluminum blade, long pull design, and ergonomic shape make it an ideal upgrade for riders seeking affordability, functionality, and classic style.

Specifications

Color
Black/Black
Weight
78g
Actuation
Long Pull
Compatibility
Left and Right (reversible)
Material
Aluminum blade and housing
Compatible Model
SRAM BL-FR-5-A1
Brake Compatibility
Avid BB7 Mechanical Disc Brakes

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Reversible design genuinely simplifies purchasing — one SKU covers left or right installation.
  • Reach adjustment lets riders dial in blade position to hand size, which mechanical levers at this price rarely offer.
  • Aluminum construction feels solid and resists the flex you sometimes get with plastic-bodied budget levers.
  • Long-pull actuation pairs directly with BB7 mechanical disc brakes without cable routing adjustments.
  • At 78 grams, it doesn't add meaningful weight to the cockpit.

👎 Cons

  • Long-pull only — not compatible with short-pull V-brake or road caliper setups.
  • The black-on-black colorway limits aesthetic options for riders building a color-coordinated cockpit.
  • Modulation feel is functional rather than exceptional — riders coming from hydraulic systems will notice the difference immediately.
  • No blade guard or integrated lock feature, which some commuters and bikepacking riders prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

No — the FR-5 is designed specifically for mechanical disc brakes, including the Avid BB7. It uses a long-pull actuation designed for cable-actuated systems, not hydraulic lines.
Yes. The reversible design means a single lever works for either hand position. You orient it during installation rather than needing to buy separate left and right versions.
A simple adjustment screw lets you move the blade closer or farther from the bar. This is especially useful for riders with smaller hands or those who prefer a closer reach for better modulation control.
Standard installation requires a 5mm hex key for the clamp bolt and a small flathead or Phillips screwdriver for the reach adjuster. No proprietary tooling is needed.
It's competitive for a mechanical lever in this price range. The aluminum blade and housing keep weight reasonable, though riders chasing gram-counting savings would look at higher-end options.

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