How to Adjust Dual Pivot Side Pulls

A bicycle fresh from the shop includes a pair of perfectly adjusted brakes. This changes over time, as use of the brake causes the cable to stretch and the pads to wear. Sending the bicycle in for a professional tune-up may not always be feasible. A dual pivot side pull brake allows for a series of adjustments. Each adjustment helps keep the brake operating with shop-quality precision. A well-adjusted brake responds to brake lever commands more effectively.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 mm Allen wrench
  • 3 mm Allen wrench
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Instructions

  1. Brake Pad Height

    • 1

      Loosen the 5 mm Allen bolt with the wrench on the side of the pad. Each pad, on each side of the brake, has an Allen bolt. Adjust pad height one pad at a time.

    • 2

      Set the pad even with the braking surface. The center of the side of the rim constitutes the "braking surface."

    • 3

      Hold the pad even while re-tightening the Allen bolt.

    Brake Centering

    • 4

      Pull the brake lever while noting the travel of each brake pad. A centered brake allows the pads to meet the rim simultaneously for more effective braking.

    • 5

      Turn the 3 mm Allen screw near the top of the brake clockwise to cause the brake to travel further to the right.

    • 6

      Turn the screw counter-clockwise to cause the brake to travel further to the left.

    Brake Lever Travel

    • 7

      Loosen the 5 mm cable pinch bolt at the left of the brake.

    • 8

      Squeeze both pads equally until they are almost touching the side of the rim. Re-tighten the pinch bolt.

    • 9

      Pull the brake lever to determine the amount of travel. For "stiffer" braking, turn the cable adjuster away from the brake. For "looser" braking, turn the cable adjuster toward the brake.