How to Fix Bicycle Brakes

Keeping our bicycles in good shape is critical to avoid accidents and injuries. These step-by-step instructions on how to repair your bicycle brakes will help you enjoy your biking trips instead of worrying about whether your brakes will function when you need them.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Visually determine if the wheel is properly centered between the two brake pads.

2. Remove the nuts that hold the brake pads in place and replace worn pads with new ones.

3. Lightly secure the nut in place, making sure wheel is centered before tightening up completely.

4. Adjust brake cable by loosening the anchor bolt that secures the cable.

5. Pull the inner cable tighter while squeezing the brakes. This will shorten the cable, making the brakes work better.

6. Carefully tighten the anchor bolt back into place.

Tips & Warnings

• It is helpful to have the bike stationary when working on it. Consider a third hand, a device that locks your bike in place to allow your hands to be free while you repair your bicycle breaks.
• Be careful not to tighten the anchor bolts too firmly, or you will snap the bolt.
• Brakes are an important part of your safety when using your bicycle. If you are not comfortable making these repairs, see a professional for guidance either before you attempt the work, or have your work inspected to make sure it was done properly.

Resources

• Excellent source of bike repair information