Bought this beauty CCM Caprice and tuning it up. The front brake feels “spongy” and the housing moves a lot when the brake is applied (way more than rear brake that isn’t spongy). I presume this means I need a new cable/housing?
by shushicatscraps
2 Comments
Looks like you just need to take some cable slack out so that the housing is sitting tight on the lever.
Lots going on here. This brake set was very basic even when new, so simply getting some stopping power at all is a victory; set expectations accordingly. Start by dropping the cable and lubricating the pivots and shaft of the brake with a thicker oil. Work it open and closed to ensure that it is as smooth as possible and free. You may need to adjust the nuts to get free travel and minimum play. Install a new cable and housing of bike shop quality to the correct length. This one is far too long which is part of the issue. You want a smooth arc but not much longer than needed to get the reach. Adjust the cable length so that there is still a little spring tension when fully open. See how the cable pops out of the lever when you release it? No tension when open. Keep the ferrule at the lever end for the new cable, that may have a shape to keep it locked into the lever housing. Before you adjust the brake ensure that the pads track on the braking surface and do not rub the tire. Pads are likely rock hard, so replace those if needed as well.