How to Change V-Brake Pads

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By Nathaniel Miller
eHow Contributing Writer

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V-brakes are a tried-and-true type of braking apparatus in use on a great number of mountain bikes. Essentially, two arms are attached to the rear chainstays of a mountain bike with a cable connecting them and the brake lever. When the brake lever is pulled, the brakes are actuated, squeezing the brake pads against the rim of the wheel. They are termed V-brakes because they distinctively make a "V" when they are actuated. As the pads are the main stopping mechanism of the brakes, if they become worn or damaged, they must be replaced.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

New V-brake pads Allen wrench set Bike stand

Step 1

Attach the bike to the bike stand so you have a sturdy working platform. Clamp the seatpost in the bike stand clamp and then start working on the front brake.
Step 2

Squeeze the two arms of the V-brakes together and slide the cable out of the housing on one side. Allow the V-brake arms to open up so that the pads on either arm are exposed.
Step 3

Use the Allen wrench to loosen the mounting bolts on both of the brake pads. Slide the brake pads off the brake arms.
Step 4

Slide the new brake pads in place on the arms and tighten down the mounting bolts with the Allen wrenches.
Step 5

Squeeze the brake arms together and slide the cable back into the cable housing. Repeat Steps 2-4 on the other brakes and then take a test ride.