the lines and connections for leaks.
braking power. If you find leaks in the brake system or buckled
lines, contact your bicycle dealer. Risk of an accident!
5.3 Disc Brakes
The most striking feature of disc brakes (a) is that they combine outstand-
ing braking power with good weather resistance. They respond a lot faster
in wet conditions than rim brakes do and achieve their normal high braking
power within a very short time. They require fairly little maintenance and do
not wear down the rims as rim brakes do. However, they tend to be noisy
when they are wet.
New brake pads have to be bedded in before they reach their
optimal braking performance. For this purpose, accelerate the
bicycle 30 to 50 times to around 30 km/h (18 mph) and bring it
to a halt each time. This procedure is finished, when the force
required at the lever for braking has stopped decreasing.
The brake levers can be adjusted to the size of your hands, allowing you
to operate them with optimal effectiveness. In most cases this is done by
means of a small Allen bolt located directly at the brake lever (b). You may
need to readjust the brake pads, as well. Please read the manual of the
brake manufacturer.
With mechanical disc brakes the travel of the brake lever becomes longer
as the brake pads wear down (c). It is therefore necessary to readjust these
brakes regularly. If you are in doubt or if you have any questions, please
contact your bicycle dealer!
If your brake system works with DOT brake fluid, the latter needs
to be replaced regularly according to the intervals prescribed by
the manufacturer.
The manufacturers of disc brakes usually deliver their products
with detailed instructions. Be sure to read them carefully before
removing a wheel or doing any maintenance work.
Disc brakes get hot in use. For this reason do not touch the
brakes directly after stopping, especially after a long downhill
ride.
Do not open the brake lines. Brake fluid can be very unhealthy
and damaging to the paint if it leaks out.
5.3.1 Checking Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Regularly check the lines (d) and connections for leaks while pulling on the
lever. If brake fluid leaks out, contact your bicycle dealer immediately, as a
leak can render your brakes ineffective.
a
b
c
d