Braking and turning technique.
Most brake and gear shifting problems are the result of cable friction or misadjustment. This article covers cable installation, preparation, and maintenance.
Caliper brakes are the most common type of rim brake on road and BMX bicycles.
A general article pointing to information on different kinds frame-mounted brakes (including the new "V-type" cantilevers, Rollercam brakes and U-brakes.)
An examination of the geometry of cantilever brakes, and how to use it to achieve the level of mechanical advantage you desire in your braking system.
Coaster (back-pedalling) brakes are found on many older bikes. They aren't too hard to fix if they don't need parts.
Direct-pull brakes are a common type of modern cantilever brake. They require special brake levers.
Disc brakes are popular on off-road bicycles. They also may require special brake levers.
A not-very-elegant, but cheap and effective way to improve the braking on bicycles which require long-reach caliper brakes.
This article describes one way to make a jig to hold cantilever bosses in place while brazing them on to a frame.
There is an expert who specializes in this difficult repair.
Types of rim brakes; general information on selection, installation, adjustment.
Roller-cam brakes were common in the 1980s.
A Rollerbrake is a type of drum brake which is optional on some Shimano internal-gear hubs and front hubs.
How to select and adjust your tandem's braking system(s) for safety even at high speeds.
How to adjust traditional cantilever brakes (those with a central cable that pulls from above).
U brakes were common in the 1980s and are still being installed on freestyle bicycles.
An encyclopedic listing of bicycle lore, technical data and opinions.
Last Updated: by Harriet Fell
Different types of brakes, their advantages, disadvantages and appropriate use.