Braking System; Rim Braking Systems - Orbea ALMA Instruction And Maintenance Manual

Adjustment
Adjusting the headset requires special tools and specific skills. Therefore, it should only be
performed by your authorized dealer.
Lubrication
The headset must be lubricated once a year. This requires special tools and specific skills. There-
fore, it should only be performed by your authorized dealer.

BRAKING SYSTEM

The braking system allows you to reduce your speed, a critical function of your bicycle. This
section will explain how to inspect, adjust and lubricate your bicycle's brakes. You should also
read the specific information corresponding to each type of brake used.
Suggestions for all braking systems-all systems
The different types of brakes have different braking capacities. If you are not satisfied or comfor-
table with your braking system, talk to your authorized dealer.
With any braking system, a failure in the adjustment, maintenance or use of the brakes could
cause you to lose control of the bicycle and suffer the consequences that could entail. If you are
unsure about the adjustment of your brakes, or if you suspect there is a problem, do not use the
bicycle. Take it to your authorized dealer.
It is difficult to adjust the braking system if you do not have the necessary knowledge, experien-
ce or materials. We highly recommend that you have your authorized dealer adjust your brakes.
Not all brakes are compatible with all levers. Only use levers that are compatible with your
brakes, such as those that originally came with your bike.
WARNING Never use the bicycle if the braking system is not working correctly, or if you suspect
there could be some problem, either with the brakes, cables or hydraulic system. Poor brake
function could cause you to lose control and fall. If your bicycle is not functioning properly, readjust
it and take it to your authorized dealer.

RIM BRAKING SYSTEMS

Introduction
This system is made up of different brake families, such as Cantilever, V-Brake and Caliper.
In these systems, the levers are connected to the brake through cables or hydraulic systems.
When squeezing the levers, the brake shoes act on the rim and slow the wheels, which reduces
the speed of the bicycle.
These systems are made up of the following components:
- Rim
- Braking levers / Fluid reservoir
- Brake cable and housing / Hydraulic hose
- Brake shoes
Brake fluid from the hydraulic system is highly corrosive. Avoid contact with the skin or bicycle,
as it could corrode the paint.
Never use rims designed for disc brakes with these systems. The rims must have a flat surface
on which the brake shoes can act.
Inspection
Before using your bike, squeeze the brake levers firmly. The lever should never come in contact
with the handlebar. If the lever touches the handlebar, the reach should be regulated as explai-
ned below. If you have a hydraulic systemic, it must be purged. This action must be performed
by your authorized dealer, since it requires specific materials and know-how.
Likewise, if you have a hydraulic system, check that there are no crimps or leaks in the hose.
Replace any hydraulic part that does not pass inspection. This replacement requires specific
tools and know-how. Therefore it should be done by an authorized dealer.
When the brakes are not being applied, the shoes should be 1-2mm from the rim. The brake
shoes must be aligned with the rim surface. If your brakes are too loose, tight or misaligned
with the rim, adjust them prior to using the bicycle.
The angular alignment of the brake shoe must be considered to prevent the brakes from squea-
king. Used brake shoes and some new V-Brake types may not require this alignment.
Once a month, check the status of the brake shoes. The brake shoes have small channels on the
friction surface. If any of these channels is less than 2mm deep, or less than 1mm in V-Brakes,
50