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PART I
4.C - BRAKES
There are three general types of bicycle brakes: rim
brakes, which operate by squeezing the wheel rim
between two brake pads; disc brakes, which operate
by squeezing a hub-mounted disc between two
brake pads; and internal hub brakes. All three can
be operated by way of a handlebar mounted lever.
On some models of bicycle, the internal hub brake
is operated by pedaling backwards. This is called a
Coaster Brake and is described in
“Coaster Brakes” in
this section.
WARNING
1. Riding with improperly adjusted brakes or worn
brake pads, or wheel on which the rim wear mark is
visible is dangerous and can result in serious injury
or death.
2. Applying brakes too hard or too suddenly can lock
up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control
and fall. Sudden or excessive application of the
front brake may pitch the rider over the handlebars,
which may result in serious injury or death.
3. Some bicycle brakes, such as disc brakes (fig.
11) and linear-pull brakes (fig.12), Are extremely
powerful. Take extra care in becoming familiar with
these brakes and exercise particular care when
using them.
4. Some bicycle brakes are equipped with a brake
force modulator, a small, cylindrical device through
which the brake control cable runs and which is
designed to provide a more progressive application
of braking force. A modulator makes the initial
brake lever force more gentle, progressively
increasing force until full force is achieved. If your
bike is equipped with a brake force modulator, take
extra care in becoming familiar with its performance
characteristics.
5. Disc brakes can get extremely hot with extended
use. Be careful not to touch a disc brake until it has
had plenty of time to cool.
6. See the brake manufacturer’s instructions for
installation, operation and care of your brakes. If
you do not have the manufacturer’s instructions,
see your dealer or contact the brake manufacturer.
7. If replacing worn or damaged parts, use only
manufacturer approved genuine replacement parts
1. Brake Controls And Features
It’s very important to your safety that you learn and
remember which brake lever controls which brake on
your bike.
Traditionally, in the U.S. the right brake lever controls
the rear brake and the left brake lever controls the
front brake; but, to check how your bike’s brakes are
set up, squeeze one brake lever and look to see which
brake, front or rear, engages. Now do the same with
the other brake lever.
Make sure that your hands can reach and squeeze
the brake levers comfortably. If your hands are too
small to operate the levers comfortably, consult your
dealer before riding the bike. The lever reach may be
adjustable; or you may need a different brake lever
design.
Most rim brakes have some form of quick-release
mechanism to allow the brake pads to clear the
tire when a wheel is removed or reinstalled. When
the brake quick release is in the open position, the
brakes are inoperative. Ask your dealer to make sure
that you understand the way the brake quick release
works on your bike (see figs. 12, 13. 14 & 15) and check
each time to make sure both brakes work correctly
before you get on the bike.
2. How Brakes Work
The braking action of a bicycle is a function of the
friction between the brake surfaces — usually the
brake pads and the wheel rim. To make sure that you
have maximum friction available, keep your wheel
rims and brake pads clean and free of dirt, lubricants,
waxes or polishes.
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