Poor braking...

fallingoff
fallingoff Posts: 332
edited July 2011 in The workshop
I have a Specialized Crosstrail Elite and I was really dissappointed in the brake performance today..
yes it was wet and I was going down a steep incline but still I expected more.
The brakes are standard unbranded alloy linear pull with std pads.
What is the easiest way to improve them ?..or am I expecting too much?
Thanks... :?

Comments

  • wgwarburton
    wgwarburton Posts: 1,863
    Upgrade the pads and ensure the adjustment is correct.
    Cheers,
    W.
  • desweller
    desweller Posts: 5,175
    Add rim cleaning and digging debris out of your pads to your regular maintenance routine.
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  • fallingoff
    fallingoff Posts: 332
    Cheers both,can you reccomend pads?
    And what would you clean rims with?
    I do keep it well fettled but I may be using the wrong produtcs.... :oops:
    I also can get hold of some DEORE LX v-brakes cheap..would it be worth sticking them on... :roll:
    Thanks....
  • desweller
    desweller Posts: 5,175
    I use Swisstop Greens (they came with a pair of 2nd hand brakes). They are great (better braking than the Koolstop Salmon pads I was using, and seemingly less prone to picking up on the rim) but fearsomely expensive.

    I usually just use very hot water and elbow grease to clean rims and pads. Checking the pad surface for embedded rim material is crucial though.
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  • fallingoff
    fallingoff Posts: 332
    Thanks again and any advice on the Deore stuff..?
    Should I opt for the 1.5 finger adjustable levers while I'm at it.... :D
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    I wouldn't bother with the V arms or levers for now, its the pads that give the friction, anything else just helps you apply load!

    Simon
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • fallingoff
    fallingoff Posts: 332
    Noted..pads it is then...for now.... :wink: ..thanks..

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