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21 Brake, brake levers and brake
systems
This User Manual describes the maintenance and handling
of typical, commercially available brake components for
MTB, ATB, cross and road bikes. For other components,
refer to the separate information or enclosed instructions.
If you have questions on installation, adjustment, main-
tenance and operation, please consult a specialist cycle
shop.
21.1 Important information and
precautionary measures
"Bicycles must be equipped with 2 brakes that oper-
ate independently of one another."
Paragraph 65 of the German Road Traffic Licensing
Regulation (StVZO), similar rules apply in all other EU
countries.
Have maintenance work on the brakes carried out by a
professional bike workshop.
Do not allow fluids containing oils to come into con-
tact with the brake pads, brake contact surfaces on
the rim, brake blocks or brake disc as this could oth-
erwise impair the effectiveness of the brake.
Brake blocks and brake pads are wear parts. Check the
wear condition of these parts regularly. This can be identi-
fied by a marking. On the brake block, for example, the
grooves will no longer be visible. Always replace both
brake blocks at the same time.
Use genuine spare parts only as otherwise you could im-
pair the functions of the bike or damage it.
To obtain correct friction pairing, only use brake pads that
are suitable for the rim as otherwise the braking distance
would be extended and wear increased. With carbon rims
in particular, only brake pads that are expressly intended
for this purpose should be used.
Rubber brake blocks and brake pads must not come into
contact with oil or grease. If the rubber brake blocks and
brake pads come into contact with oil or grease, this dras-
tically reduces their braking performance and they must
be replaced.
Tighten all screws to the prescribed torque as other-
wise screws could shear off and components could
come loose or detach altogether (see ➠ Chapter 30
"Technical data").
Brake cables are wear parts. You should check the
wear condition of the brake cables regularly and re-
place these if necessary.
Check the brake cable for rust and fraying and replace
the cable if it is faulty. If you do not, the brakes could
malfunction.
There are different types of brakes, the type of brake de-
pends on what it is used for:
• hub brakes,
• disc brakes and
• rim brakes.
The brakes can be operated mechanically or hydraulically.
With hub gears, the brake lever that operates the front
wheel brake is normally on the right-hand side, and
with derailleur gears it is on the left. Remind yourself
of the position of the brake lever before you ride off.
If you wish to attach the brake lever on the opposite
side of the handlebar, follow the manufacturer's user
manual or ask your specialist cycle shop to do this.
I General User Manual
41
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