BRAKE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE — Caliper brakes
The brakes on your bicycle should have been adjusted correctly by your dealer; however, as
cables do stretch, it is important to check the adjustment of your brakes after your first ride. Most
brakes will need some adjustments after being used the first few times. Your brakes are correctly
adjusted when there is a 1.5 mm gap between the brake blocks and the brake track of the wheel
rim.
Do not adjust brakes to allow brake blocks to contact wheel rim when brake levers are in the off
position. The fine adjustment of the brakes is made by the following procedure:
1
. Turn adjustor A to set blocks C just clear of rim by 1.5 mm.
2
. Ensure that the brake blocks meet the rim parallel and central to the rim brake tracks. Adjust
by nuts D if necessary, then tighten securely.
3
. When all fine adjustment is taken up on adjustor A, it will be necessary to reset the cables as
follows:
a
. Turn adjustor A all the way down as far as it will go into its mounting.
b
. Loosen cable clamp bolt B. Press both brake shoes firmly against wheel rim.
c
. Pull brake cable wire through its clamp bolt.
d
. Tighten cable clamp bolt B securely.
Note:
If one brake shoe is closer to the rim than the other first check that the wheel has been
centred between the forks then adjust the brakes as necessary.
To adjust brakes that have central Caliper adjuster simply turn screw as shown until brakes
centralise.
BRAKE MAINTENANCE — Caliper brakes
To maintain cable brakes in efficient working order, regularly check the brake adjustment and
lightly lubricate brake pivots and springs. Oil the exposed parts of the cable to prevent corrosion.
Slow or inefficient braking often indicates that the brake cables themselves require lubrication.
As this job requires the removal of the complete brake cable, we recommend strongly that this
service is done professionally.
Note:
To assure smooth braking, wheels must run true and be correctly adjusted, with the rim
brake tracks free from dents and kinks. The brake blocks should be in correct alignment with the
rim brake track. See your dealer if you are in any doubt
regarding wheel and brake adjustment.
Protect yourself from frayed cable ends by maintaining the
end pieces fitted over the cable ends.
Brakes should function freely and release fully. If brakes bind,
first check for clean-liness and proper lubrication. If brakes
still bind, return your bicycle to your dealer for adjustment.
8
To centre side pull brakes first slacken the retaining nut and then centre the brake using a
spanner on the front retaining nut.
CAUTION:
Before riding, test your brakes. Make sure that the quick release mechanism is
returned to its normal correct position, otherwise your brakes will not operate effectively.
Calliper Arm
Tyre
Wheel Rim
Brake Shoe
Brake Shoe
Quick Release
Mechanism
Return Spring
