Brake Cable Replacement
04-13-14, 05:49 PM
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Brake Cable Replacement
Hi everyone. I have an older Shogun steel roadie and I need to replace the brake cables on it. I have never replaced cables before, so I was curious what I need to do? How do I know which size to buy?
04-13-14, 06:13 PM
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Park Tools has a series of tutorials on all aspects of bike maintenance. Here is the list of those for brakes in general: Park Tool Co. » ParkTool Blog
And here is the specific one for brake cables: Park Tool Co. » ParkTool Blog » Brake Levers
You most likely need a road brake cable with an Shimano-type end button and any bike shop will have what you need. I recommend die drawn stainless steel cables for smoothness and durability. You might also consider changing the housing if it is old and/or dirty. Again, the Park web site has a tutorial and your bike shop has the needed parts.
And here is the specific one for brake cables: Park Tool Co. » ParkTool Blog » Brake Levers
You most likely need a road brake cable with an Shimano-type end button and any bike shop will have what you need. I recommend die drawn stainless steel cables for smoothness and durability. You might also consider changing the housing if it is old and/or dirty. Again, the Park web site has a tutorial and your bike shop has the needed parts.
04-13-14, 06:14 PM
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There are plenty of free tutorials, both video and text and photo, available on the internet. Search "replace brake cable" or "replace bicycle brake cable", and review a few until you have a sense for the job, then go ahead. It's pretty simple to do, roughly on a par with fixing a flat, so shouldn't put you out.
As for the cable, there are two basic types, determined by the anchor terminal. One for most drop bar levers, and one for most upright bar levers. Most replacement cables are sold double ended, where you cut off the one you don't use.
No special tools are needed, except to cut the cable. A good pair of diagonal wire cutters is OK, or you can buy a cable cutter made for the job for $20-50.
Another option is to visit a co-op like Ohio City Co-op, where they have what you need, and staff to help you along. Different co-ops operate different ways, but all are resources for new DIY bike people.
As for the cable, there are two basic types, determined by the anchor terminal. One for most drop bar levers, and one for most upright bar levers. Most replacement cables are sold double ended, where you cut off the one you don't use.
No special tools are needed, except to cut the cable. A good pair of diagonal wire cutters is OK, or you can buy a cable cutter made for the job for $20-50.
Another option is to visit a co-op like Ohio City Co-op, where they have what you need, and staff to help you along. Different co-ops operate different ways, but all are resources for new DIY bike people.
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An ounce of diagnosis is worth a pound of cure.
Just because I'm tired of arguing, doesn't mean you're right.
“One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions” - Adm Grace Murray Hopper - USN
WARNING, I'm from New York. Thin skinned people should maintain safe distance.
04-14-14, 06:34 PM
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Thanks for the posts! I will check out the Park Tool blogs. Worst case, if I mess something up I can take it to my LBS, Portage Cyclery and they will fix it for me
