Disc Brake maintenance.

Eaglerider

Esteemed Pedelecer
Oct 25, 2011
374
47
East Sussex
Hi all,

I have Tektro cable operated disc brakes on my bike, and have a small query as to the correct method of adjusting the inner pad.

The brake works by the cam pushing the against the disc and bends it to bring it into contact with the 'fixed' pad on the inside. The inner pad is adjusted by an Allen key and moves the pad in and out, presumably to take account of brake pad wear. I decided to service the brakes at the weekend and eventually managed a reasonable result, but it took ages to get it right.

My question; is there a straightforward and rapid method of setting these brakes up, or is it just a case of trying a bit, go for a squeeky ride, then adjust a bit more etc. Any tips would be appreciated?

lastly, how long are the pads expected to last. Ive done about 1400 miles and the pads are well worn?
 

Mussels

Esteemed Pedelecer
Jun 17, 2008
3,207
8
Crowborough
I tend to start with the adjust wound right out with new pads in, then screw the adjuster in by one turn. Fit (and bolt up) the caliper with the inside pad hard up against the disk, then hold the outside so the moving pad touches the disk and secure the cable. When you let go there should be just enough clearance that the pads don't drag.
Longevity of the pads depends very much on the compound and how you use them. Many brakes are provided with organic pads, these are cheap and work well in town riding. I find they overheat and wear out quickly. The new trend is for Kevlar but I don't think much of them and prefer semi-sintered.
A problem over time with those calipers is the internal adjuster gets loose and you end up re-adjusting them every few miles.
 
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