0
Damaged cables should be replaced
immediately, as they can tear. Brakes
that have only been adjusted at the hand
lever can lead to a severely reduced brak-
ing power.
Enclosed brake systems are particu-
larly prone to overheating. This occurs
when braking permanently on long and
steep downhill roads or paths. As a result
thereof, the braking power may be reduced
(fading) with a complete failure of the brake
in the extreme case. As soon as you feel a
reduction of braking power, you should give
the brake time to cool down. Sometimes, it
will do already to alternate between front
and rear break. If this does not suffice, you
must stop and wait a few minutes.
Drum brakes become very hot
during riding. For this reason do not
touch the brakes shortly after a stop, espe-
cially after riding downhill a long time.
9. The brake system
9.8 Back-pedalling brakes (coaster brakes)
This type of brake is a special form of the roll-
er or drum brake. Some city bike models are
equipped with this type of brake. The brake
mechanism is fully enclosed and combined
with a gear hub.
The back pedal brake is actuated by pedal-
ling backwards. For maximum braking power,
step on one of the pedals in its rearmost posi-
tion, with the cranks horizontal.
If your bike has a back-pedalling brake, you
should occasionally check the tension of the
chain. The amount of play midway between
chainwheel and sprocket should not be more
than 2 centimetres.
Check regularly whether the coaster
brake bracket is still firmly attached to
the frame or fork.
