Hello Ray. The problem with a clear definition of long reach is that there is none. Long reach used to be standard and only when the reach became smaller over time did the term become long reach. Most frame builders would build frame with some brake in mind the key as I see it is to figure out what brake they were thinking about. And, yes the 27 to 700 can be a nice fix. I just rebuilt an older Raleigh for a customer that was missing both wheels I figured it was 27" so I got some wheels for him and the tire hit the front reflector bracket. Yes it was 700c and the brake pads fit perfect. Steven Willis The Bike Stand 1778 East Second Street Scotch Plains NJ 07076 908-322-3330 http://www.thebikestand.com
>I am looking for a clear, understandable definition of long reach brake
> calipers. I need some kind of hint that will allow me to identify long
> from short quickly without mounting on a bike. Here is my issue, I have a
> bike that I am building up that I have what were called long reach
> calipers installed. With the pads in place they just barely reach the 700
> rim and they are bottomed out on the arms. Perhaps the bike is meant for
> 27 rims and that is my problem. Any hints would be helpful.
>
> Thanks
> Ray Homiski
> Elizabeth, NJ