Thorn Cycles Forum

Technical => Wheels, Tyres and Brakes => Topic started by: lewis noble on January 17, 2014, 05:57:55 PM

Title: V brake (XT) set up
Post by: lewis noble on January 17, 2014, 05:57:55 PM

Hello!

Cannot seem to get my v brakes adjusted just right . . . . can anyone recommend one of those online films / clips that might help?  Getting the balance right between the 2 arms seems elusive . . .

Thanks

Lewis

Title: Re: V brake (XT) set up
Post by: Danneaux on January 17, 2014, 06:02:44 PM

Lewis,

I've never found a set of Shimano v-brakes with balanced arm-spring tension correct out-of-the-box to date.

What I do is back the adjuster screws out evenly, then unhook the linear spring ends from their perches and gently bend them outward and then re-seat as needed to balance the base tension. Once the pads are equidistant from the rim, I tighten the tension screws as needed to provide proper return spring tension.

I once mentioned my method to a Shimano rep at MTB race and he said this was how he did it as well.

By the way, it is *much* easier to adjust pad toe-in if you also unhook the springs first.

I hope this helps.

Best,

Dan.

Title: Re: V brake (XT) set up
Post by: lewis noble on January 17, 2014, 06:25:49 PM

5 minutes, Dan, what held you up??!!

Thanks very much.  Never tried 'your' technique but will give it a go.

I am really quite enjoying getting it set up just right.

Lewis