User Guide

48
49CHAPTER THREE Inspection, Adjustment & Lubrication
Brake Systems
Introduction
This system consists of one of several types of
hand-operated brake levers and brakes: direct-pull
brakes (Figure 3.7.1). With this system, the lever is
connected to the brake by a cable. By squeezing the
lever, pressure is applied to the wheel rim by brake
pads. This slows the rotation of the wheel, which
slows the bike.
This system consists of several parts:
• Rim
• Brake lever
• Brake cable and housing
• Brake caliper
Never use rims designed specifically for disc
brakes. Rim brakes require a flat sidewall on the rim for proper
braking action.
Inspection
When the brakes are not applied, the brake pads should be 1-
2mm from the rim. Brake pads should be aligned with the rim
surface (Figure 3.7.2). If your brakes are too tight, too loose, or
not centered on the rim, adjust them before riding the bike.
Figure 3.7.2 shows toe-in, an angular alignment of the brake
pad, which can be adjusted to prevent squealing of the brakes.
Used brake pads, or some new direct-pull type brakes, may not
require toe-in.
Every month check the brake cables on your bike for kinks,
rust, broken strands, and frayed ends, and check the housing
for bent ends, cuts, stretched coils, and wear. Replace any part
which does not pass inspection.
Every month inspect the brake pads on your bike for wear.
Brake pads have shallow grooves in their braking surface. If
Pad and
rim should
be parallel
Brake pad
aligned with the
rim surface
Direction of rim
rotation
Figure 3.7.2 Brake pad alignment
0.5 - 1 mm toe in
No contact
Figure 3.7.1 Direct-pull brake
Arm
fixing
bolt
Cable clamp bolt
Centering
screw
Pad fix-
ing bolt
Rim brake with hand lever