How to Maintain and Change Your Indoor Bike’s Brake Pads
By Henrik Nielsen
Healthy brake pads are key to a smooth-riding indoor bike. The pads provide the range of resistance from their contact with the flywheel.
In this article we will look at the most common brake assembly – those with centre pull design with felt pads used for contact. They are found on all Schwinn models (except the AC), Tomahawk, Reebok and all Titan GC models.
When functioning correctly, brake pads provide a smooth and linear increase in the bike’s resistance level. Worn pads typically grab the flywheel on contact making a “full on” feel. Worn out and dry pads make it difficult to enjoy a spin class.
Here are a few signs that let you know the pads are beginning to wear:
• balls of white fluff on the brake pads
• a squeaking noise heard when the pads are applied
• yellowish dust on the frame or caliper
• yellow lines on the fly wheel that look like record grooves
Look to your manufacturer for new brake pads first. It will be able to sell you pads or point you toward your nearest dealer. Failure to buy manufacture-recommended replacement parts might void your warranty. Prices vary, so a bit of extra time taken to shop around can save you quite a bit.
Once you have the pads and are ready to replace them, follow these steps:
1. Release the tension completely from the resistance assembly by turning the tension counter clockwise.
2. Remove the hardware with a 4mm Allen key.
3. Rotate the pads downwards and free them from the calliper.
4. Spray the pads generously (for about 5 seconds) with silicone lube.
5. Ensure you place the pads on the correct side.
6. Re-install the hardware, being careful not to over tighten; a quarter turn past fingertight is all that is required.
Once the new pads are installed it’s important to maintain them with regular inspection and lubrication. These two simple steps will help your pads last for years saving you hundreds of dollars over the life of your fleet.
For a video demonstration, check this link: www.youtube.com/gtbcpromovideo.
Henrik Nielsen is the owner of the Greater Toronto Bicycle Co (GTBC). A former mountain bike racer and bike shop owner, he has spent 25 years doing what he loves most: cycling. For the last 13 years, Henrik and the GTBC crew have supported the Spinning and indoor cycling industry across Canada. Based in Halton Hills,Ont., GTBC recently released its line of Titan indoor bikes which are designed and assembled in Canada. These days Henrik dedicates his time to technical support, parts supply and bike sales.
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