How to Replace Bicycle Brakes
If your bicycle brake pads aren't gripping the way they should and you're finding yourself having to squeeze the brake levers extra hard to stop your bike, it is probably time to replace your brake pads. There are two kinds of pads; cartridge pads and bolt-on pads. Cartridge pads are easier to replace and bolt-on pads are a bit tougher but with a little instruction you can learn how to replace both kinds of bike pads.
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Instructions
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Cartridge Pads
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1
Check your break pads. A good set of break pads will have nice, deep grooves in them. If they are almost completely worn away, it is time to change your brake pads.
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2
Look for a pin that keeps your brake pad in place if you have linear-pull brakes or an Allen bolt if you have sidepull brakes.
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3
Remove the pin and push out the brake pad. If it is in tight and you can't push it out, slip a small screwdriver in between the pad and the holder and pry it out.
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4
Check the markings on the pad to make sure you are putting it in correctly. Push the new pad into the holder with your fingers. If it doesn't go in easily, use a little rubbing alcohol on it, which should help it to slip right in.
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5
Align the pad so that the brakes strike the center of the rim when they are applied.
Bolt-on Pads
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6
Loosen the bolt that holds the brake in place or remove the bolt if you have to loosen the pad.
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7
Remove the pad from the holder.
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8
Insert the new pad, checking with the other brake to make sure you are inserting it correctly.
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9
Align the pad to the holder so that the pad hits the rim squarely on when the brake is applied. You may need to move the spacers or washers around for this to work right. Replace any rusted-out pieces that make it hard to position them correctly.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are having a hard time removing parts on the brakes, use a little lubricant oil to loosen them up.
Replace one pad at a time so you can check the new one with the old one to make sure you are replacing them correctly.
