A light weight brake assembly for bicycles is disclosed. Some embodiments of the invention are designed to enhance assembly adjustability, for example to accommodate geometric variations that occur with various bicycle frame and wheel geometries. Some embodiments of the invention are designed to allow for a brake leverage that can be non-linear and capable of multiplying during brake actuation so that braking force increases more rapidly than brake lever force applied by the user. Some embodiments of the invention are designed to provide a brake sensitivity that is adjustable in use. Some embodiments provide for a quick-release functionality, for example by quickly increasing the gap between the two brake pads so that the wheel can be easily/quickly removed.