How to Replace the Brakes on a Trek Mountain Bike

Trek is one of the most popular brands of bicycle for cross-country riding and mountain biking. Trek bicycles provide a smooth quality ride. Trek manufactures many different models of bicycle to suit virtually all types of cycling. Common with all bicycles is the fact that brakes–at some point–will need to be changed because they wear out. Changing the brake pads on a Trek bike is not unlike changing the pads of any other bicycle. It can be done with ease following simple guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • 5mm Allen key
  • Small wood block
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pry apart the caliper or brake-shoe using a screwdriver. All models of Trek bikes are slightly different in brake design, and many brake calipers can be pulled apart at the sides using your hands without the aid of tools. Place an object, such as a small block of wood, in-between the opened brake-shoe so that it remains open. The U shaped caliper is what holds the brakes onto the frame.

    • 2

      Locate the brake pads on the inside of the caliper. These are the rectangular rubber pieces that rest on both sides of the tire rim. Use a 5mm Allen key to remove the old brake pads. Insert the Allen key into the grooves behind each pad. Turn it counterclockwise to remove the old pads.

    • 3

      Position the new brake pads into their position on the caliper. Tighten the new pads down tight with the Allen key.

    • 4

      Remove the block of wood and re-secure the brake caliper. The brake pads need to be positioned flat against the rim of the tire. Double check to ensure that they're in the appropriate position on each side of the rim.