Just got a set of BB7 calipers for my roadrat – christ, they weigh a ton.

Are there cheap, lighter alternatives? Need to work with Cane Creek V-Brake Drop levers.

All mechanical calipers weigh a fair bit.
The shimano road calipers are a bit lighter I think but the BB7’s are better brakes.

I thought BB7’s were lighter overall compare to hydraulics as levers are usually lighter and cables are lighter than fluid??

Cables would be heavier than fluid – was just talking about the calipers though, they’re massive and weigh a ton.

The weight is in a good place though, to do with your centre of gravity when cornering.

Could be worse…

I would think that the difference in weight you refer to is not quite “a ton” but more like the difference in taking more or less water in your camelbak. I had a pair of tarty carbon Louise brakes that just would not self adjust themselves, constantly rubbed, on two different bikes. Thats why I now run BB7’s, no more faff, just tweak the adjusters. You need to use good cables though, Jagwires reinforced outers make a difference.