How to Adjust Rim and Disc Brakes

Brake adjustment ensures safe stopping power. Properly aligned and tensioned brakes prevent accidents and improve ride confidence.

Quick Answer: Center brake calipers over the rim or rotor, adjust pad clearance to 1-2mm, and set cable tension so brakes engage halfway through lever pull. Check alignment by spinning the wheel and watching pad-to-rim gap.

Rim Brake Adjustment

Loosen the mounting bolt slightly and squeeze the brake lever. While holding the lever, tighten the mounting bolt to center the caliper. Release and check that pads contact the rim simultaneously.

Adjust cable tension using the barrel adjuster. Turn counterclockwise to tighten (bring pads closer), clockwise to loosen. Pads should sit 1-2mm from the rim when released.

Disc Brake Alignment

Loosen caliper mounting bolts just enough to allow movement. Squeeze the brake lever firmly and hold. While holding, tighten the mounting bolts evenly. This centers the caliper over the rotor automatically.

If rubbing persists, check rotor true by spinning the wheel and watching for wobbles. Slight bends can be carefully straightened with an adjustable wrench.

Brake Pad Inspection

Replace rim brake pads when grooves disappear or pad thickness drops below 2mm. Disc pads need replacement at 1mm thickness. Contaminated pads cause squealing and poor performance.