New-Old-Stock Shimano 105 Brake Caliper Set (Model BR-5501)... Anodized Black Finish Thank you for your interest in this item and please visit our store for other offerings. This offering is for a new-old-stock set of Shimano 105 brake calipers in the black finish. More specifically, they are Shimano model BR-5501 calipers, which were introduced (in the black finish) in 2003, and remained in current production through 2005 as part of the 9-speed groupset. For those that are interested, Shimano's rolled out their 105 10-speed groupset with the Hollowtech II crankset/bottom bracket re-design in 2006.
This move effectively ended production of Shimano 5500 series components in favor of 5600 series 10-speed 105 components in 2006. We understand most folks realize the 105 model is generally considered Shimano's entry-point to competitive cycling.
So while these are not top-end calipers, they are still very good quality in terms of dual pivot brake caliper technology. They are fairly light at 352 grams (both front and rear) and have a reach in the 39 mm to 49 mm range. According to Shimano, this model includes their SLR technologies so improved production/finishing processes...We should also mention the calipers are made from a cold forged aluminum alloy which we have been told that as far as manufacturing processes are concerned... This forging technique generally results in very strong/durable aluminum alloy.
We still see some of these older model (5500 series) calipers available in good used condition, but it appears the availability of new-old-stocks sets is beginning to dry up (and this probably does not come as a surprise, since production ceased between 12 and 15 years ago). Having said all of the above, the cosmetic condition of this particular set, is still nice. I do see some light shopwear (scratches) in the anodized black finish (but not too bad) and all the chromed (chromoly steel) parts shine bright. To this end, I can confirm the aforementioned cosmetic condition is accurate, and this caliper set still shows well (with some light shopwear). You may visit our store by clicking on this "Store Home Page".Link and please note the product categories on the left side of our "Store Home Page". We have also moved our "Terms and Conditions".
You may navigate to this page by clicking on the link on the left side of our "Store Home Page". Unfortunately, this service is more expensive, especially for smaller/lighter packages, relative to the First Class International service. The item "New-Old-Stock Shimano 105 Brake Caliper Set (Model BR-5501).Black Finish" is in sale since Tuesday, September 4, 2018. This item is in the category "Sporting Goods\Cycling\Bicycle Components & Parts\Brakes". The seller is "bicyclists_retreat" and is located in Argonia, Kansas.
This item can be shipped worldwide.