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Brakes
Never ride a bicycle unless the brakes are functioning properly.
The correct adjustment and operation of your bicycle’s brakes is extremely important
for safe operation. Brakes should be checked for effective operation before every ride.
Frequent checking of adjustment is necessary as the control cables will stretch and the
brake pads will become worn with use. (Please refer to p. 32-41)
Inspection
Brake levers should be checked for tightness at least every three months. They should be
set in a comfortable position within easy reach of the rider’s hands, and must not be able
to move on the handlebar. Some brake levers make use of a reach adjustment screw, which
can alter the distance between the handlebar grip and the lever, as required. The brake
pads should be checked for correct positioning and tightness before every ride, and the
various bolts and nuts at least every three months. Squeeze each brake lever to make
sure they operate freely and that the brake pads press hard enough on the rims to stop
the bike. There should be about 1mm - 2mm clearance between each pad and the rim
when the brakes are not applied. The brake pads must be properly centered for maximum
contact with the rim. Replace the brake pads if they are over worn so that the grooves
or pattern cannot be seen (Fig. 4.6). The brake cable wires should be checked for kinks,
rust, broken strands or frayed ends (Fig. 4.5). The outer casing should also be checked
for kinks, stretched coils and other damage. If the cables are damaged, they should
be replaced.
Lubrication
The brake lever and brake caliper pivot points should be oiled with 2-3 drops of light oil
at least every 3 months to ensure smooth operation and to reduce wear. Cables should
be greased along their entire length, after removing them from their casings, at least
every six months. Always grease new cables before fitting. Be sure to wipe off all excess
lubrication from outer surfaces. If left the lubrication can get onto rim or brake surfaces
and cause a loss of braking performance.
Adjustment
Minor brake adjustment can be made via the cable adjustment barrel, usually located
at the brake lever. To adjust, squeeze the brake pads against the rim, loosen the lock
nut and turn the adjuster. Brake pad clearance should be a maximum 2mm from the
rim (1/2mm for disc brakes). When correct, re-tighten the lock nut. If the pads cannot
be set close enough to the rim in this manner, you may have to adjust the cable length.
MAINTENANCE
Usable brake shoe
Worn out brake shoe
(REPLACE)
4.6
Cable adjustment barrel
Lock nut
Adjuster
4.7
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