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Figure 1: Wedge-type brake |
This system consists of wedge-type brakes (Figure 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 bicycle.
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.
Since the brake levers are part of this system, also read about brake levers on your bicycle:
· Brake levers for triathlon-type handlebars
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Figure 1: Wedge-type brake |
Before every ride squeeze the brake lever firmly. It should not be possible to pull the lever fully to the handlebar. 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 2). If your brakes are too tight, too loose, or not centered on the rim, adjust them before riding the bicycle.
Figure 2 shows toe-in, an angular alignment of the brake pad, which can be adjusted to prevent squealing of the brakes. Used brake pads may not require toe-in.
Every month check the brake cables on your bicycle 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 bicycle for wear. Brake pads have shallow grooves in their braking surface. If any of these grooves are less than 2 mm deep, replace the pads.
Every 3 months tighten the bolts on the brakes to the torque specifications listed in the Speed Concept Service Information.
If your bicycle has carbon fiber composite rims, only use Bontrager Carbon Rim brake pads, or a similar product. Carbon rims may cause premature wear of standard brake pads, and may not perform properly in wet conditions or in severe brake applications.
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Figure 1: Brake pad alignment |
The wedge-type brakes on a Speed Concept bicycle are more complicated to adjust than a "standard" bicycle brake with additional steps. WE encourage you to have your dealer adjust your brakes. If you want to do this work yourself, refer to the Speed Concept Service Information.
Every 3 months lubricate your brake arm fixing pivots with a light chain oil or a similar light oil.
Whenever a cable is replaced, lubricate the cable with a thin layer of synthetic bicycle grease or a similar lubricant.
