How to Adjust Rear Bicycle Brakes

Bicycle brakes come in various designs, and the choice of one usually depends on the type bicycle. Nevertheless, bicycle brakes share certain features, and adjustment for one is rather similar to another. The average rear bicycle brake consists of two cable-actuated arms and pair of brake shoes. Effective operation of the brake relies chiefly on brake cable tension and positioning of the brake pads. Making the necessary adjustments allows the brake to work effectively, and helps keep the cyclist safe.

Things You'll Need

  • 5-mm hex wrench (as needed)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the position of both rear brake shoes. There is a shoe on both sides of the rim. Pull the brake lever, and observe where each shoe hits the rim. Each shoe should meet the side of the rim evenly. See Step 2 for adjustment. If rear brake shoes are in the proper position, skip to Step 3.

    • 2

      Loosen the single bolt attaching the shoe to the arm of the rear brake. The bolt requires a 5-mm hex wrench. Once it's loosened, position the shoe properly. Tighten the bolt afterward. Repeat for both shoes if necessary.

    • 3

      Pull the rear brake lever, and note how far the lever travels in order to engage the brake. If the lever is traveling more than halfway before the brake is engaged, you need to tighten the brake cable. A brake cable can also be loosened if braking feels too abrupt. For either adjustment, see Steps 4 and 5.

    • 4

      Find the barrel-shaped nut that allows for adjustment of cable tension. On road bikes, the nut is where the cable and brake meet. On most other bikes, the nut is where the cable and brake lever meet.

    • 5

      Rotate the nut counterclockwise to increase cable tension, and clockwise to decrease cable tension. Increased cable tension decreases response time between the lever and the brake. Lessening cable tensions increases response time.

    • 6

      Take the bicycle for a short ride and test the rear brake. Be careful when applying the brake the first time. If the cable has been tightened, expect braking to be more abrupt. Continue to use the barrel-shaped nut to fine tune the braking to personal preference.