How To Repair Bicycle Brake
Master bike brake repair in 4 steps
Repairing bicycle brakes is an essential skill every cyclist should possess, as brakes are crucial for safety and control while riding. Here are four steps to help you repair your bicycle brakes. First, start by inspecting the brake pads. Look for thinning pads or any signs of wear and tear. If the pads are worn out, replace them with new ones. Simply remove the old pads and slide in the new ones, making sure they are aligned with the rim.
Caliper Adjustment: Symmetrically Center Brake Pads
Next, adjust the brake caliper position. Locate the brake caliper, which is the part that holds the pads against the rim. Loosen the bolts that secure the caliper and adjust it so that the pads are symmetrically centered on the rim. Tighten the bolts back up, making sure the caliper is secure but still allows the wheel to spin freely.
Adjust brake cable tension for evenness
After that, check the brake cable tension. Squeeze the brake lever and observe the brake pads. If they feel loose or too tight against the rim, you need to adjust the tension. Locate the barrel adjuster on the brake lever or the brake caliper and turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to tighten or loosen the cable accordingly. The pads should strike the rim evenly when the lever is squeezed.
Inspect brake cables for damage or corrosion
Finally, if your brakes still aren’t working properly, check for any signs of cable damage or corrosion. Examine the brake cable and housing, looking for frayed wires, rust, or any other damage. If you detect any issues, you may need to replace the cable or housing. Detach the damaged section of the cable or housing and install the new one, ensuring it is properly threaded and tightened.
About me
I got my first bicycle when I was 3 years old. 10x years later I still love to cycle! In the meantime, I also developed an absolute obsession with motorbikes! I write about my hobbies and lifestyle on this blog.
