V brake distance from rim
06-18-22, 08:42 PM
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V brake distance from rim
How far should the brake pads of my v brake be from the rim?
I just purchased some dual compound MTB Kool Stop pads and they have a squeegee on the end, how far is the squeegee supposed to be compared to the rest of the pad?
I just purchased some dual compound MTB Kool Stop pads and they have a squeegee on the end, how far is the squeegee supposed to be compared to the rest of the pad?
Last edited by zsid; 06-18-22 at 08:44 PM. Reason: added info
06-18-22, 08:58 PM
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You don't want the pads to rub or the lever to bottom out.
Between those endpoints, do what feels good.
Between those endpoints, do what feels good.
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06-18-22, 09:00 PM
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The nub on the end is to clear moisture/contaminates from the braking surface prior to full pad engagement.
The proper distance from the rim is whatever distance barely allows the brake noodle to clear the hasp mechanism for opening the brake.
Ideally the brake arms ought to be vertical & parallel to each other when the brake is in operation. Swap the convex/concave washer pair around to move the pad closer/further from the rim.
The best pad approach ought to look like you are fist bumping your self.
Good luck. You can do it.
The proper distance from the rim is whatever distance barely allows the brake noodle to clear the hasp mechanism for opening the brake.
Ideally the brake arms ought to be vertical & parallel to each other when the brake is in operation. Swap the convex/concave washer pair around to move the pad closer/further from the rim.
The best pad approach ought to look like you are fist bumping your self.
Good luck. You can do it.
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06-18-22, 09:09 PM
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An old rule of thumb, never used it, was 2 dimes under each pad, best is the one that lets you undo the noodle with modest effort/no struggle. Best is to get there by tightening the adjustment barrel 2 turns so you can loosen a touch if you hit something and the rim needs a little extra clearance for the ride home.
06-18-22, 09:11 PM
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I have found the wiper ramp at the leading end of some KS pads to be more trouble to end up with both good rim clearance and a not so mushy lever feel after pad contact has happened. I have ground the ramp/wiper portion down many times for better feel. Andy
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06-19-22, 06:12 AM
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