Bicycle Tutor

Hello,
On both the front and rear brakes, the pads are not parrallel to the rims. Is there anyway to twist the pulls on the brakes so that the pads are parrallel? Thank you for any advice.

Need more info! V-brakes? Cantilevers, etc?

Since you mention that it is both front and rear, it sounds intentional. Let me ask you - are the front ends of the pads slightly closer than the trailing ends, and by roughly equal amounts on all four?
If so, that is called 'toe' and helps to reduce brake squeal.

Dia Compe side pull brakes. It couldn't be intentional, it is a lot out of parallel on both but even more on the back. Wondering how to twist them.

(Oct 8, 2012 05:13 PM)RobAR Wrote:  Need more info! V-brakes? Cantilevers, etc?

Since you mention that it is both front and rear, it sounds intentional. Let me ask you - are the front ends of the pads slightly closer than the trailing ends, and by roughly equal amounts on all four?
If so, that is called 'toe' and helps to reduce brake squeal.

now its time for some nice close up pics from different angles. before we freak out and cop a head rush and mess it up. then we may help you better

I just made the coffee anyone interested?

(Oct 9, 2012 04:21 AM)Bill Wrote:  I just made the coffee anyone interested?

Coffee alright those pics r comin!

twisting brake arms with break the brakes - do NOT do it.

Best and safest solution is to replace the Dia-Comps with Tektro dual pivot side pulls or similar.

I was afraid of that. so here is the full story. I am reluctant to admit that this is on a recumbent! (Dont want to be discriminated against ) ON the front wheel I need a lefthand pull to avoid the chain on the right. Or I could go with a Tektro r559 and mount it behind the fork, thereby putting the pull on the left. I need the r559 for the extra long reach. Then I could put a Tektro r539 on the back.

Or Bachetta makes a very nice light brake set with a left hand pull for $150 each. In that case I would need to figure out if I could drill out the back of the fork to accept a recessed nut.

Have considering which route to go, whether it is worth the extra dollars for the lighter Bachetta, or just with the larger, heavier Tektro.

Being presently underemployed and having more time then money right now, was tempted to postpone the decision and try to correct the Dia Comes.

Genshu - you just lost me. You seem to know enough about brakes (considering the fact that you're a 'bent rider ), that we must not be following your original question. Are the pads not aligned with the curvature of the rim. Pics would really help!

Recumbent - I have heard (rumour) that they are typically heavier and faster than "standard" bicycles; thus it makes sense to go with the most powerful brakes you can find - not some super expensive fly wieghts. Tektro R556/559 and R536/539 brakes are incredibly powerful.

good to hear that Tektro's are strong. pics coming havent joined the smart phone realm yet. The arms are way out of line with the plane of the rim.