How do I get my brakes to stop my bike quicker? It's been a long time since I've messed with rim brakes, but I remember being able to easily lock up the rear wheel. Struggle to do that on this bike, the pads just don't seem to grip.
I'm already planning on replacing them with salmons (used to run them years ago and loved them). But could the wheels be an issue? Anything else I should check?
by thegiantgummybear
12 Comments
Get a bike with disc brakes, there’s a reason no major brands make any rim brake road bikes anymore
New pads and a cleaning of the rims, and a re-bed should do the trick
Sandpaper on the braking surface should help. Just “cleaning” them may not have the desired effect.
Better pads is probably the cheapest route. Swisstop BXP (blue) or Koolstop Salmon are usually highly recommended.
Koolstop Dura 2 pads
They are the closest rim brakes with get to disc.
Pads have been said, but look into compressionless brake cable housing if you don’t have them already. Supposedly, more force from your lever pull will go to your brake calipers.
Make sure the cable and housings are in good shape. Good quality Teflon coated cables will make a difference.
I dont know if it is the kool stop pads or the Paul comp. mini motos but my bike has incredible stopping power.
A chemical degreaser that’s aluminuium safe, followed by a good soap and water cleaning. Scotchpad blue.
Better brake shoes. Given then a very gentle toe in. Fold a piece of paper over and place it at the back of the brake block, give the brake a squeeze and snug the bolt up a tiny bit, perfectly align to the rim then snug it up almost all the way. Finish by holding the brake block in place and tightening fully.
Brake cables. I always use Dura Ace for the sinple reason they’re very long lasting and the steel wound casing is pretty much compression free. Use a good set of cutters. Cut the outer to length and pass the inner through and using the last few inches, use it as “persuader” against the freshly cut edge to semi file the cut end smooth on the inside. It only takes a few passes and makes for very smooth braking and ensures proper cable return. If you feel sponginess in the brakes before you put the bartape on, then make sure that the outer cable housing is seated in the brake lever correctly and double check, it it’s the rear, you didn’t cut the outer cable too short.
Please dont be offended:
A, have you gained weight?
B, is the tyre width the same as last round you used rim brake?
C, are these same calipers as the last time you use rim brake?
New, good cable housing, properly routed.
Locking up the rear wheel should be trivial. Having enough power to lock up the front wheel on tarmac would also be nice.
I have Swisstop pads. Nothing to envy to discs.