Kool stop brake blocks

simmo3801
simmo3801 Posts: 486
edited November 2007 in Workshop
I read a post on here some weeks ago about upgrading brakes and a few people recommended Kool Stops as they were so much better than standard blocks. I bought a pair of green ceramic ones and have to say that I haven't noticed a noticeable difference. This prompts me to ask this ridiculous question. Which way round do the pads go? It says on the packet that there is a wider bit of rubber to prevent brake sqeal and prevent dirt getting onto pad so I assumed that this went to the rear? The only problem with this is that the pad then has to sit a fair distance away from the rim to allow the wheel to turn which then means the pad has further to travel to stop the wheel. The more I look at the whole set up the more my head hurts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Giant Anthem X3 2013

Comments

  • gkerr4
    gkerr4 Posts: 3,408
    I take it you do have ceramic rims??

    I have used the salmon ones on my regular alu rims and they are miles better! - silent, stong braking and no gather alu-oxide up to wear my rims out!
  • term1te
    term1te Posts: 1,462
    I use the green ones on my ceramic wheels, Open Pro CD, and they are a significant improvement over the stock ultegra blocks that came with the bike. The little lip on the block should be the first bit to hit the rim, so it is at the back of the bike. It is supposed to skim off any crud before you clamp onto it.
    The Master
    The Moser
    The VN
  • simmo3801
    simmo3801 Posts: 486
    Yes I have Mavic Open pro ceramics which is why I tried the Kool Stops. I tightened the calipers up as much as I can but as I say the extra bit of rubber on the end to trap dirt and clean the rims means there's still quite a gap between the pads and rim before braking which obviously equates to a lot more travel when operated than with say a pair of shimano pads which are flat. I will persevere and see how they go as I've only been out on my bike once since fitting my new wheels and the brakes.
    Giant Anthem X3 2013
  • OnTow
    OnTow Posts: 130
    A bit late, I guess, but Swissstops are another good block manufacturer I have noticed a huge different with - Though more expensive than Koolstop, and I have no idea whether they're better.

    Are your cables a bit stretchy and in need of replacement, perhaps?

    You don't mention your calipers.... I guess they're modern dual-pivots.
    My Tektros are nowhere near as good as my 105s or the Campag. Xenons.

    I was toying with entering the 2008 Eroica sportive on my old steeley complete with smooth Weinmann rims and Shimano sidepulls - now if you want entertaining stopping distances, try this good old 1980 technology combination - lethal!!

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