How to Adjust Side Pull Brakes on a Bicycle

Various designs of bicycle brakes exist to meet the unique demands of different types of bicycles. The side-pull brake was designed for use on a road bike and derives its name from the location and action of the brake cable. The cable is attached to the side of the brake, and during operation of the brake, the cable pulls the two brake arms toward the wheel. The brake should be inspected periodically and adjusted as needed to maintain proper performance.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • 5-mm hex key
Show More

Instructions

  1. Brake Pad Angle

    • 1

      Pull the brake lever in toward the handlebar of the bicycle. Each pad squeezes the side of the rim of the wheel. Both pads should meet the rim squarely for effective braking. If either pad is angled up or down, adjustment is required.

    • 2

      Use a proper wrench to loosen the nut securing the pad housing to the brake arm. Depending on the model and age of the side-pull brake, the nut will require either an adjustable wrench or 5-mm hex key.

    • 3

      Angle the pad until it is even with side of the rim. Hold the pad steady while re-tightening the nut to secure the adjustment.

    Brake Cable Tension

    • 4

      Pull the brake lever in toward the handlebar. Brake cable tension determines how far the lever travels before the brake engages the wheel. If the braking feels "spongy," the cable is too loose. If the braking is over-responsive, the brake cable is too tight. Adjustment is required.

    • 5

      Note the barrel-shaped nut where the cable and brake first meet. The nut allows for tension or be added or removed from the side-pull brake cable.

    • 6

      Turn the nut counterclockwise to increase cable tension. Turn the nut clockwise to decrease cable tension. Give the nut no more than a one-quarter turn before checking the adjustment.

    • 7

      Pull the brake lever to check the adjustment. Adjust to personal preference. If adding tension to the cable, be careful when riding the bicycle for the first time. Responsive braking means that the brake engages sooner. Use a light touch when operating the brake to get the feel of the adjustment.