Brakes - Specialized BICYCLE Owner's Manual

tension is insufficient. Open the lever; turn the tension adjusting nut
clockwise a quarter turn; then try again.
C. Brakes
There are three general types of bicycle brakes: rim brakes, which operate by
squeezing the wheel rim between two brake pads; disc brakes, which operate
by squeezing a hub-mounted disc between two brake pads; and internal hub
brakes. All three can be operated by way of a handlebar mounted lever. On some
models of bicycle, the internal hub brake is operated by pedaling backwards. This
is called a Coaster Brake and is described in Appendix C.
WARNING:
1. Riding with improperly adjusted brakes, worn brake pads, or
wheels on which the rim wear mark is visible is dangerous and can
result in serious injury or death.
2. Applying brakes too hard or too suddenly can lock up a wheel, which
could cause you to lose control and fall. Sudden or excessive application
of the front brake may pitch the rider over the handlebars, which may result
in serious injury or death.
3. Some bicycle brakes, such as disc brakes (fig. 11) and linear-pull
brakes (fig. 12), are extremely powerful. Take extra care in becoming
familiar with these brakes and exercise particular care when using them.
4. Some bicycle brakes are equipped with a brake force modulator, a
small, cylindrical device through which the brake control cable runs and
which is designed to provide a more progressive application of braking
force. A modulator makes the initial brake lever force more gentle,
progressively increasing force until full force is achieved. If your bike is
equipped with a brake force modulator, take extra care in becoming familiar
with its performance characteristics.
5. Disc brakes can get extremely hot with extended use. Be careful not to
touch a disc brake until it has had plenty of time to cool.
6. See the brake manufacturer's instructions for operation and care
of your brakes, and for when brake pads must be replaced. If you do not
have the manufacturer's instructions, see your dealer or contact the brake
manufacturer.
7. If replacing worn or damaged parts, use only manufacturer-approved
genuine replacement parts.
1. Brake controls and features
It's very important to your safety that you learn and remember which brake
lever controls which brake on your bike. Traditionally, the right brake lever
controls the rear brake and the left brake lever controls the front brake; but, to
make sure your bike's brakes are set up this way, squeeze one brake lever and
look to see which brake, front or rear, engages. Now do the same with the other
brake lever.
Make sure that your hands can reach and squeeze the brake levers
comfortably. If your hands are too small to operate the levers comfortably, consult
your dealer before riding the bike. The lever reach may be adjustable; or you may
need a different brake lever design.
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