There are many solutions to bicycle brakes.This article will attempt to cover the common problems with brake systems, and only mention coaster brakes briefly.
Step 1: The brake pads should be checked.
The first thing you need to know is if the brake pads are working.The rubber between the tire and the brake pad should be at least 4 inch.You will need to replace the pads if they are worn out.
Step 2: Check the cables.
Make sure the cable moves by squeezing the brake handles.The cable may be stuck in the housing or the handle could be loose if it does not.
Step 3: When the cable pulls on the caliper, make sure it moves.
Either squeeze the handle or have someone else operate it while you watch.The whole cable assembly will have to be replaced if the cable at the brake handle does not move.
Step 4: Make sure both sides of the bike wheel are in place.
If one side is stuck, you won't get effective braking because only one pad is engaging the wheel.You may need to loosen the bolts on the bike to free up the mechanism.Light machine oil will help keep the parts lubricated.
Step 5: Purchase a new set of pads.
The Bicycle Shop can provide you with the correct brake pads for your bike if you have the make and model.Universal pads are available at discount stores, but they only work on inexpensive bikes.
Step 6: Remove the nut and washers from your old brake pads.
This can be done without removing the bike frame.Remove the nut at the top center of the caliper, slide the assembly out, and replace it with another nut if space is not available to work on it.All washers, spacers, and the caliper arms are kept in the correct position.
Step 7: To install the new pads, be careful to keep the pads true to the tire.
To make sure the trailing edge contacts the wheel first, toe the pads slightly.The center of the wheel's metal is where the pad height should be.If the pad is mounted too high, it will rub against the tire, which is undesirable.
Step 8: The pivot is Lubricated.
Step 9: The brake cables need to be adjusted.
When the lever is squeezed and the brakes are not applied, they should be about 4 inch from the wheel rim.
Step 10: The cables should be Lubricated.
If you want to spray oil into the cable housing, you can use an aerosol can with a tube.A light machine oil with a small nozzle similar to "3 in 1 Oil" or a special brake cable oil is recommended.When the factory lubricant is washed off the cable, there will be very little lubricant left on it.
Step 11: Only remove the cable if it is very stiff or difficult to operate.
Pulling out the opposite end of the brake lever is how this is done.If you remove the cable, you should use an aerosol solvent to clean the tube.If the cable is undamaged, apply a coat of grease or machine oil to it.
Step 12: The "free travel" is the distance the brake lever can be squeezed before the wheel contacts it.
When the brake pads are close to the wheel with the lever released, tighten the clamps.
Step 13: If the steps above did not solve the problem of the cable not moving when the brakes are applied, you should replace it.
The same diameter cable can be purchased in the same length as the original equipment.It is difficult to make up the ferrells, cut the cables to the correct length, and thread them through the clamps.
Step 14: Check the underside of your brake levers to make sure they are secure.
Step 15: The lever handle has a "pivot" pin on it.
Step 16: The calipers should be centered over the wheel.
Step 17: The springs need to be tensioned on each arm.
The caliper should move toward the wheel when you squeeze the brake handle.If one side has more movement than the other, you need to know how lubricated the arms are.To tighten the spring on the side, bend it with a pair of pliers and be careful not to break it.
Step 18: If you have coaster brakes on your bike, you should adjust the pedals backwards.
The pedals should only travel a quarter of a turn.It's not a good idea for a novice to have this happen inside the rear axle housing.
Step 19: The brake arm should be checked.
On "Bendix" type coaster brakes, the brake arm is a flat, steel "arm" that is attached to the rear of the vehicle.The arm should be able to rotate with the axle if the clamp is loose.The brake arm should be facing the front of the bike if it has become detached.