SHIMANO CS-57 Ex Arabesque Brake Set Dot Levers 600EX

( Brand: Shimano ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CS-57 ), ( Model: 600EX ARABESQUE CS-57 ), ( Part Type: Lever Pull ), ( Position: Front Rear ), ( Brake Type: Caliper Brake Side Pull ), ( Color: Silver ), ( Compatible Bike Type: City Bike, Hardtail Bike, Hybrid Bike, Racing Bike, Road Bike, Single Speed/fixie, Touring Bike, Road Touring, Road Bike Racing, Road Bike Touring ), ( Set Includes: Brake Set ), ( Country Of Origin: Japan )

Review SHIMANO Vintage 600 Ex Arabesque Side Pull Brake Set Red Dot Levers

The **Shimano CS-57 600 EX-Arabesque Brake Set with DOT Levers** represents a refined blend of performance, ergonomics, and precision engineering, tailored for cyclists seeking a seamless riding experience across a variety of terrains. This brake system is a standout choice for those who demand reliability without compromising on style or functionality, particularly for road and gravel adventures where braking power and control are paramount. At its core, the **CS-57** leverages Shimano s proven **600-series hydraulic braking technology**, delivering consistent, progressive modulation that adapts effortlessly to the rider s input, whether tackling steep descents or navigating tight corners. The **EX-Arabesque** design introduces a sleek, aerodynamic profile with a curved lever shape that cradles the hand naturally, reducing fatigue during long rides and enhancing grip for improved control. The **DOT-compliant levers** are engineered to work seamlessly with Shimano s hydraulic brake systems, ensuring optimal fluid transfer and responsive braking even in wet or dusty conditions where traditional mechanical brakes might falter. The system s **dual-piston calipers** (when paired with compatible rotors) provide superior stopping power and fade resistance, while the **brake pads** are crafted from high-performance materials to offer extended durability and consistent grip across various road surfaces. For riders who prioritize both aesthetics and performance, the **CS-57** features a polished, matte black finish with subtle metallic accents that complement modern bike frames while maintaining a low-maintenance appearance. Whether paired with a carbon or aluminum frame, this brake set integrates cleanly with Shimano s **Ultegra or Dura-Ace** groupsets, offering a cohesive look and feel that elevates the overall riding experience. With its focus on **precision engineering, ergonomic design, and hydraulic efficiency**, the **Shimano CS-57 600 EX-Arabesque Brake Set** is an ideal choice for cyclists who demand nothing less than excellence in every pedal stroke and brake application.

### **Shimano CS-57 600 Ex Arabesque Brake Set with Dot Levers: Pros and Cons**

1. **High-Quality Components** The CS-57 is part of Shimano s mid-range hydraulic brake lineup, offering reliable performance with minimal maintenance compared to mechanical brakes. The 600 series ensures good stopping power and consistent modulation.

2. **Arabesque Design** The brake calipers feature Shimano s signature Arabesque aesthetic, which many riders appreciate for its stylish appearance. The design is also functional, with improved heat dissipation and rotor clearance.

3. **Dot Levers** The Dot levers are ergonomic and comfortable for long rides, with a smooth, progressive feel. They provide better grip and reduce hand fatigue compared to older lever designs.

4. **Compatibility** This brake set is designed to work seamlessly with Shimano s hydraulic disc brake systems, including the Deore, SLX, and higher-end models. It is also compatible with most modern frames and forks that support 160mm rotors.

5. **Durability** Shimano s hydraulic brakes are known for their longevity, especially when properly maintained. The CS-57 is built to last, making it a cost-effective choice for riders who want reliable braking without frequent replacements.

6. **Good Value for Money** Compared to higher-end Shimano hydraulic brake sets (like the SLX or XT), the CS-57 offers a balanced performance-to-price ratio, making it suitable for casual to intermediate riders.

7. **Easy Installation** The brake set comes with all necessary hardware for installation, and Shimano s hydraulic systems are generally straightforward to bleed, though some riders may prefer professional help for the first time.

8. **Wide Rotor Support** It is compatible with 160mm rotors, which provide excellent stopping power, especially for heavier riders or those riding in hilly or mountainous terrain.

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1. **Mid-Range Performance** While the CS-57 is reliable, it is not as high-performance as Shimano s SLX or XT models. Riders who demand extreme braking power or race-level modulation may find it slightly lacking.

2. **Maintenance Requirements** Like all hydraulic brakes, the CS-57 requires periodic bleeding to maintain optimal performance. Neglecting this can lead to spongy or unresponsive levers.

3. **Weight** Hydraulic brake systems are heavier than mechanical ones. While the weight difference is minimal compared to higher-end models, it may be noticeable on lightweight or race-oriented bikes.

4. **Cost of Replacement Parts** If parts wear out (e.g., brake pads, hoses, or calipers), replacement costs can add up. While Shimano parts are widely available, some specialized components may require purchasing from authorized dealers.

5. **Learning Curve for Bleeding** First-time users may find bleeding hydraulic brakes challenging, especially if they lack the right tools (like a bleed kit and fluid). Professional help may be necessary for the initial setup.

6. **Limited Upgrade Path** If a rider later decides to upgrade to a higher-end Shimano system (e.g., SLX or XT), they may need to replace the entire brake set, including levers and calipers, rather than just upgrading individual components.

7. **Potential for Fluid Contamination** Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, leading to reduced performance. Riders in humid climates may need to bleed their brakes more frequently.

8. **Not Ideal for Extreme Conditions** While the CS-57 handles well in most conditions, it may not perform as consistently as higher-end models in extreme heat, cold, or off-road environments where dust and debris are prevalent.

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The **Shimano CS-57 600 Ex Arabesque Brake Set with Dot Levers** is an excellent choice for riders seeking a reliable, mid-range hydraulic brake system. It strikes a good balance between performance, durability, and affordability, making it suitable for commuters, casual riders, and those who want a step up from mechanical brakes without breaking the bank. The Arabesque design adds a touch of style, while the Dot levers ensure comfort during long rides.

However, it is not the best option for riders who prioritize top-tier braking performance or plan to push their bikes to extreme limits. If maintenance is a concern, some riders may prefer mechanical brakes or higher-end hydraulic systems like the SLX or XT. Overall, the CS-57 is a solid, practical choice for most everyday riding scenarios.

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- You want a reliable, hydraulic braking system without the cost of premium models.

- You appreciate Shimano s build quality and aesthetic appeal.

- You are comfortable with basic maintenance (or willing to pay for professional bleeding).

- You ride in varied conditions but do not require race-level braking performance.

- You need the absolute best stopping power and modulation (e.g., SLX or XT).

- You prefer mechanical brakes for lower maintenance or off-road use.

- You are on a tight budget and can find a compatible used hydraulic set at a lower price.

For most riders looking for a balance of performance, comfort, and value, the CS-57 is a **highly recommended choice**.

Details:

May need some light detail cleaning but nice as is. Very good condition. Vintage Shimano 600 Arabesque Front Rear Side Pull Brake Set W/ Red Levers.

part #: cs57 prices

• $17.00-$149.99

specifications ribicycl:

• brand: Shimano
• mpn: Cs-57
• model: 600ex Arabesque Cs-57
• part type: Lever Pull
• position: Front Rear
• brake type: Caliper Brake Side Pull
• color: Silver
• compatible bike type: City Bike, Hardtail Bike, Hybrid Bike, Racing Bike, Road Bike, Single Speed/fixie, Touring Bike, Road Touring, Road Bike Racing, Road Bike Touring
• set includes: Brake Set
• country of origin: Japan

offer ribicycl:

• options: Ship-to-home
• best offers: True
• quantity: 1
• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: March 7, 2026

shipping ribicycl:

• cost: $12.88
• transit: 4-7 Days
• carrier: USPS
• class: Standard
• type: Fixed
• service: USPS Ground Advantage

seller ribicycl:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: Muskegon, Michigan
• # reviews: 4750

payments ribicycl:

• credit card: Diners-club
• wallet: Paypal
• other

returns ribicycl:

• paid by: Buyer
• method: Money back
• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days

general ribicycl:

• condition: Used
• Cycling > Bicycle Components Parts > Brakes

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