I have a Campy set-up on my road bike. I’ve got 6-7k miles on it since it was initially built up and I haven’t had a tune up to account for cable stretch. My front brake has no power and is essentially worthless for stopping or even modulating speed. I assume it’s related to the cables stretching a bit, as there is still movement when I apply the brake (i.e. the cable isn’t freezing). What is the best means of adjusting? Is it just a function of loosening the hex-bolt and pulling the cable taut again or is there something more to it? Any good do-it-yourself sites for this type of repair?
Check the Park Tools website in the “repair” pages. Lots of info there.
Is it just a function of loosening the hex-bolt and pulling the cable taut again or is there something more to it?
Yup. Be careful and don’t remove the end cap or you will need to put one back on. ( I generally “pull” the cable from above the cap if there is room).
Squeeze brake pads to wheel rim; hold. Loosen bolt. Pull cable to remove slack. Tighten bolt. Brake pads will move slightly away from rim. If result has insufficient clearance, repeat process but don’t squeeze so hard.
I would suggest replacing the cables at the very least and maybe getting new housing as well. When you are getting cable and housing you ought to get a Pedro’s brand cable cutter.
(I like Park tools and use their site a bunch but I think the Pedros cable cutter is better than Park’s)
David K
Does your brake have a barrel adjuster? On campy it looks like a wheel where the cable housing runs into the brake. Turn it counterclockwise. That will tighten the cable, unless it is much too loose in which case you need to do the hex-bolt move.
As someone pointed out, with 6-7k miles you are overdue for an overhaul anyway. Take it to the bike shop and have them disassemble, relube, and rebuild for you.
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