Test, Service and Replace Bike Brakes
Step 1 - Test Your Brakes
Start by grabbing your brake levers - the force needed to lock your brakes should not be great and the action should be smooth. If the brake lever ends up uncomfortably close to the handlebars, then the brakes will need immediate adjustment.
Step 2 - Check the Brake Pads
Most brake pads have a wear line to indicate when they should be replaced but you should also check that they are wearing evenly all over. If some of the brake pad is missing the rim completely, then the pad will need to be cut down with a stanley knife or even replaced altogether. Make sure there are no deep grooves in either the pads or the wheel rims. These are signs of wear that may require the replacement of both brake pad and wheel rim.
Step 3 - Replace the Brake Pads
If you need to replace the brake pads, begin by operating the brake's quick release system - this is located at the top of the brake arms. Then undo the nuts securing the brake pads and swap the old pad for the new one. Make sure the pads are the right way up and are level before tightening the nuts slightly. Pull gently on the brake lever and check that the whole pad hits the rim no more than a couple of millimetres below the top of the rim. Keep tightening up the nuts in degrees with your spanner, checking the brake pad alignment constantly until they are secured.
Step 4 - Adjust Your Brake Cables
If your brake pads are in good condition, you may need to increase the tension on your brake cables. V and cantilever have screw attachments on the brake levers, where the cable exits the lever. Screw out the threaded tensioning bolt with your fingertips until the brakes become positive again then tighten the locking nut back against the brake lever.
