BRAKES
For safe riding it is crucial that your bicycle’s brakes function correctly. With use the bicycle’s brake pads wear and the control cables stretch. Consequently, prior to every ride the brakes should be inspected and adjusted as necessary to ensure proper operation.
WARNING: A bicycle should never be ridden unless the brakes are working correctly. Take care when using the front brake. Applying it abruptly or excessively may throw the rider over the handlebars, potentially causing serious injury or death.
Hand Controlled Brakes
There are five main types of hand controlled brakes used on bicycles - the sidepull, the “V” brake, the “Linear Pull” brake, “U” type calliper brakes, and disc brakes. All are operated by the rider squeezing the control lever attached to the handlebar, which activates the brake. Differences occur between the four hand operated brakes by how they are mounted to the bicycle. “V”, “Linear Pull”, and “U” type brakes use two brake pivot arms, each mounted on separate pivots on either side of the frame or fork. Sidepull calliper brakes are attached to the frame or fork by a single pivot point. Disc brake callipers are attached to the frame and fork via disc brake mounts.
Foot Controlled Brakes.
The coaster brake is a pedal activated brake fitted to most juvenile bikes and some BMX bikes with out gear mechanisms. The brake is activated by pushing backwards on the pedal. This activates a brake in the rear hub and allows the rider to slow or stop.
Inspection
The brake levers and the brake pads are the two main components that need to be checked to ensure your brakes are functioning effectively. Positioning of the brake levers should be checked to ensure they can be easily reached by the rider’s hands and alterations made as necessary. Some brake levers have a screw adjuster to change the distance between the lever and the handlebar grip. This should be checked for tightness every three months. Similarly, at least every three months the brake levers should be tested to ensure they do not move on the handlebars and each brake lever moves freely when compressed.
Prior to every ride inspection of the brake pads is recommended. The brake pads must be centred, with approximately 1.5mm – 2mm clearance between each pad and the rim when the brakes are not in use. Test that when the brakes are applied that the brake pads squeeze the rims sufficiently to stop the bike. Replace the brake pads if the grooves or pattern has worn away from the surface. Ensure that the brake pads are firmly secured before every ride and at least every three months check the tightness of the numerous bolts and nuts supporting the brake pads.
If your bicycle is fitted with a Quick Release wheel mechanism, ensure that this is securely |
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closed after any brake adjustment. Never ride a bicycle unless the mechanism is firmly | 43 |
locked in the closed position. |
Updated 23/05/07 | RAOM0507 | Apollo Bicycle Company Pty. Ltd. ABN: 60 001 914 469 |