Written By: Jonathan
Fact Checked By: Caroline Dezendorf
Reviewed By: Matt Tanner
Behind every clean stop is the CABLE that is working really hard silently, as the brake cable really plays a big role in keeping your ride safe and smooth.
Brake cables are what literally connect your brake levers to your brake calipers, or arms, which allow you to slow down or stop when you press the lever.
However, like any moving object, these cables naturally degrade over time, and can become stretched, corroded, or jammed due to dirt and moisture.
And according to bicycle maintenance experts: In fact most brake cables should be inspected every 3 to 6 months and if you cycle regularly you should replace it at least once a year.
Basically, worn or sticky cables actually reduce braking power and delay your stopping time, as it can also lead to dangerous situations.
But replacing brake cables is ideally simple and inexpensive too, so just follow this guide that is specifically based on How To Change a Bicycle Brake Cable and with some basic tools and the right steps you can easily get your brakes back to their full strength again.
Tools
| Tool/Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| New brake cable | So, this is basically the main part that you wanted to replace, brake cables are made up of really tightly wrapped steel wires and are actually designed to transfer force from the brake levers to the brake arms. |
| Cable housing (if replacing) | This is the protective tube through which the cable passes, yes it is very possible that over time the housing can become blocked by dirt, moisture or simply wear out from the inside which causes friction. |
| 5mm Allen wrench | Most modern brake systems actually use 5mm bolts to hold the brake cable in place at the clamp and sometimes at the brake lever as well, and this tool is for loosening and tightening those bolts. |
| Cable cutters | In fact, you shouldn’t use regular scissors or pliers, as it’s important to use a sharp set of cable cutters that make clean and precise cuts on both the brake cable and the housing. |
| Needle-nose pliers | These are very useful for pulling cables tightly and even holding small parts. |
| Lubricant | Yes, it is not always necessary, but a small amount of light lubricant can be applied inside the cable housing which also reduces friction. |
| End caps (cable crimps) | These are small metal caps that are put on the end of the brake cable after it has been installed. |
| Bike stand (optional) | Yes, this is indeed optional, but with a bicycle stand you can really make the job a lot easier. |
What are the Types of Brake System
In fact, the methods of installing cables are different in different types of brakes, and the methods of connecting and removing the cables are also slightly different, that’s why it becomes important to understand the types of brake systems so that you can easily prevent any unnecessary mistakes that can actually affect your braking performance as well.
1. V-Brakes/Linear-Pull Brakes
V-brakes are also known as linear-pull brakes and are one of the most common types found on mountain bikes and hybrid bicycles.
They actually come with two long arms that are ideally attached to the frame or fork with bolts.
And the brake cable actually runs through a housing that connects to the noodle which is a curved metal tube and a rubber boot, before it clamps onto one of the brake arms.
Installation and Removal of V-Brakes/Linear-Pull Brakes
Basically, the cable usually enters from one side and to remove it you have to loosen the bolt on the arm and then slide the nodule out.
And when you want to reinstall it, you have to make sure that the cable has enough tension so that the brake pad can come close to the rim, but make sure that it should not rub it.
Plus, these are actually very beginner-friendly so you can easily replace them without any kind of complicated process.
2. Cantilever Brakes
Therefore, cantilever brakes are actually older than V-brakes, but they are still in use on some touring bicycles, cyclocross bicycles, and vintage mountain bicycles.
Additionally, these brakes have two short arms that actually attach to the frame or fork and the cable attaches to the top using a straddle cable and yoke.
Installation and Removal of Cantilever Brakes
The cable tension is actually balanced between the two sides using a straddle cable, and the cable actually runs vertically from the brake lever to the yoke.
You will need to separate the main cable from the straddle wire to remove it safely.
Also, the setup can actually be a bit more complicated than V-brakes as you have to balance the tension which again is important for even braking.
3. Caliper Brakes
Caliper brakes are actually more commonly found on road bicycles, as these brakes actually consist of a single mechanism that is mounted on top of the wheel and both arms move together when the brake lever is pulled.
In addition, the cable runs down from the lever and is also attached to a pinch bolt at the top of the brake arm.
Installation and Removal of Caliper Brakes
The good news is that the cable routing is very simple and usually very short, and removing it simply involves loosening a small dampening bolt on the brake arm.
Not only that, caliper brakes require precise cable tension to avoid rubbing the pads or any weak braking later on.
But the cable run is also short and straight due to which there is less friction and the cable and hence it is also easier to inspect the condition of the cable.
4. Mechanical Disc Brakes
It is a well-known fact that mechanical disc brakes are becoming really popular, especially on new mountain bicycles, gravel bicycles, and even commuter bicycles.
And they actually use a cable that’s not hydraulic fluid, to activate a caliper that actually squeezes a metal rotor that’s attached to the wheel hub.
Installation and Removal of Mechanical Disc Brakes
Actually the brake cable enters the caliper from the side and this is often through the barrel adjuster, but if the cable is routed internally through the frame the cable routing can be more complicated so you’ll need to be careful when replacing it.
Also, removing a mechanical disc brake is very important: if you set it too loose the brake won’t work properly, and if it’s too tight it can even drag, which is why you need to make sure to recheck the rotor alignment after replacing the cable.
Read More:
How to Remove the Old Brake Cable (Step-by-Step Guide)
You have to remove the cable correctly as this will help prevent any unnecessary damage to the brake levers, housing or all sorts of small components such as: barrel adjusters or clamps.
1. Shift the Brake Lever to Loosen the Cable
You should press and release the brake lever a few times to make sure it is no longer under excessive tension.
Yes, it really helps to have some slack in the cables, and this is especially helpful if the bicycle has not been used for a while.
So, for bicycles with barrel adjusters, you need to turn the barrel inward that is clockwise which can also help loosen the tension.
So basically the goal is to relieve the stress on the cable before removing it, this also prevents parts from actually breaking or getting damaged.
2. Loosen the Bolt on the Brake Arm or Clamp
Now, you first need to put the brake arm or caliper clamp in place where the cable is actually secured, and usually you can find a bolt (often a 5mm Allen bolt) that clamps the cable in place.
You will then need to use your Allen wrench to loosen this bolt, make sure you don’t loosen it all the way but just enough to free the cable.
So, when it comes loose, you may actually be able to pull the end of the cable out of the clamp or arm.
Pull the cable gently as rust or dirt may build up on the cable and cause it to stick.
3. Remove any Cable End Cap
Now, if your cable actually has a bent metal end cap also called a cable end, you will need to remove this as well.
As these caps are actually used to prevent the cable from breaking, they actually need to be removed before the cable can be pulled back through the housing, so simply use a needle-nose pliers and then gently twist or pull the cap off.
If you find it is damaged or difficult to remove, you can carefully cut it off using a cable cutter.
4. Pull the Cable Out of the Lever and Housing
So, now you have a cable that is loose at both ends, you can easily remove it completely.
Simply start by pulling the cable out of the brake lever, and you may need to actually push or twist it a bit to get it through the exit port of the lever.
And then you can easily slide it out of the cable housing, and you might even feel some resistance if the housing is really full of dirt or sticky lubricant: so just proceed slowly and steadily so you can avoid tearing the housing lining if you actually want to reuse it.
NOTE: You should take the time to remove the old cable properly as this actually ensures a smooth installation of the new cable and really helps you keep other parts of your braking system in good condition.
Read More:
How to Check and Replace the Cable Housing
When you’re replacing brake cables, it’s also a good idea to first inspect the cable housing, which is actually the outer tube that guides and protects the cable that runs along the bicycle frame.
Yes, this step is completely optional and it is up to you to follow it or not, but most bicycle mechanics actually strongly recommend doing this as worn housings can also cause sticky braking, there may be a delayed response or it may even damage the new cable.
1. Inspect Housing for Rust, Kinks or Cracks
Before blindly reusing your existing housing, you should inspect it carefully, such as you should check to see if there are any signs of rust on the ends, if there are any bends or knots along the length, and if there are any cracks in the outer plastic coating.
Because damaged housing actually increases friction and causes subsequent braking to feel stiff or unresponsive or this happens even with brand new cables.
2. Cut New Housing to the Same Length as the Old One
If you want to replace the housing you will need to use your old housing as a guide, so just place it next to the next housing and then cut it exactly the same length, this virtually ensures that the new housing will fit snugly into the bicycle frame as well as through any cable stops.
So, just use a sharp cable housing cutter for clean cuts, and make clean and square cuts which really helps the cable to move smoothly and hence it reduces the wear as well.
3. Install Ferules on Housing Ends
Ferrules are actually small plastic or metal caps that fit onto the ends of the cable housing, and these caps actually prevent the housing from splitting or getting stuck in the cable stop on your bicycle.
Furthermore, you should always install ferrules on both ends of the housing, as they ideally help align the housing correctly and actually protect both the cable and your bicycle frame from any unnecessary wear.
4. Apply Light Lubricant Inside Housing
So, before threading your new brake cable through the housing, it’s always a smart idea to apply a few drops of light lubricant to the inside of the housing which can be a bicycle-specific cable lubricant, because it actually helps reduce friction and allows the cable to glide more freely.
Also, if you have a smooth running cable, that basically means the lever will be easier to pull, the response when braking will be quicker and there will also be less strain on your hands, which can be very useful during long rides or in hilly areas.
Note: Removing the old cable housing really makes a huge difference in the feel and performance of your brakes, but it can also take a few extra minutes to remove. But the new housing really keeps the new cable secure, also it reduces future wear and tear and makes your braking system feel almost like new.
Always Remember: when you lubricate brake cables you should always flow from top to bottom, protecting the contact surfaces, as this actually ensures smooth functioning without contaminating the braking surfaces.[¹]
How to Install the New Brake Cable (Step-by-Step Guide)
So, once you have removed the old brake cable and housing (if needed), it is time to install the new brake cable, and when you install the new brake cable correctly it gives really strong, smooth and reasonably responsive braking power.
1. Insert New Cable into the Brake Lever
Now, you need to take your new brake cable and then insert the head of the cable into the slot inside the brake lever.
Additionally, most levers are actually designed with a special notch or holder where the head of the cable fits securely.
And once you have it inserted, push the long end of the cable through the exit hole of the lever and into the cable housing.
Then you need to slowly insert the cable throughout the entire length of the housing.
And if you have applied lubricant beforehand, you will notice that the cable goes in more easily.
2. Route the Cable Correctly
Now, you actually have to make sure that the cable is following the correct path along your bicycle’s frame, as most bicycles also have cable stops or guides along the top tube, down tube, or chainstays and it also depends on whether it is for the front brake or the rear brake.
That’s why you need to use the original routing as a reference.
And for internally routed frames where the cable actually runs inside the tubing, so you’ll need to carefully feed it in and use a cable guide tool if necessary, and just make sure the housing seats snugly in the cable stop or guide clip as well, because it actually keeps the movement of the cable stable and smooth.
3. Pull the Cable Taut
So, once the cable has passed all the way through the housing and actually reached the brake arms or calipers, you will need to tighten it by hand until you feel it moving inward on the brake arms.
Also, the cable should feel snug but not too tight and then use your Allen wrench or spanner and tighten the cable clamp bolt securely.
This bolt actually holds the cable in place and is usually found on one of the brake arms for rim brakes, or on the caliper arm for mechanical disc brakes.
So you have to make sure that the cable doesn’t come out while tightening it.
4. Squeeze Brake Arms
Before finalizing the setup you’ll need to gently press the brake lever a few times, and carefully observe how the brake pads are actually moving.
And if you find that the lever pulls all the way back to the handlebar, the cable may be too loose, and if the pads are rubbing without lever input it means it’s too tight.
This is why you need to feel the lever firmly and it should stop about halfway when you press it.
Also, if necessary you should make some small tension adjustments using the barrel adjuster near the brake lever.
And when the tension feels right, you have to do a final check and then retighten the clamp bolts as well.
NOTE: When you install it correctly it definitely ensures that your brakes respond quickly and reliably, and that is what really makes your ride more safe and comfortable. Plus, this step also gives you the chance to adjust your braking ability: do you want it to be firm and intense or smooth and slow.
Read More:
How to Tune the Bicycle Brakes
So, once you have successfully installed the new brake cable, the next important step is to tune the brakes, as this ensures that your brake system works efficiently and safely.
1. Adjust Cable Tension with Barrel Adjusters
Barrel adjusters are actually small round knobs that are usually located near the brake lever or sometimes even on the brake caliper, and they actually allow you to make small tension adjustments to the brake cable without using any tools.
When you turn the barrel counterclockwise or outward it increases the cable tension by pulling the brake arms closer to the rim or rotor, and when you turn it clockwise or inward it actually decreases the tension and allows the brake arms to open a bit.
So, just start by pressing the brake lever and adjusting the barrel until the brake engages properly, and you should keep it firm but not overly tight.
This is a great way to tune the brakes after the cables have been installed, and will be useful if the brakes feel too loose or too tight.
2. Ensure Pads Contact the Rim/Disc Properly
You actually also need to position your brake pads correctly, which is just as important as the cable tension.
And for rim brakes such as V-brakes or calipers, you need to check that the brake pads hit the rim surface directly: because it should not be on the tire and also should not be below the braking track. So when braking, the pad should touch the rim completely and there should be equal pressure on both sides.
And for mechanical disc brakes, you really have to make sure that when you release the lever the pads are pressing evenly against the rotor without rubbing, and if you find that the pads are misaligned it can cause uneven wear, there may also be squeaking or poor stopping power, which is why first you need to loosen the mounting bolts and then adjust the position of the pads and then tighten it again.
3. Check for Smooth, Responsive Brake Lever Action
After adjusting the tension and pad alignment, you’ll also need to test the brake levers.
An ideally tuned brake lever should feel smooth and perfectly responsive, with a clear point where the brake actually engages: also known as the “bite point”.
And it really shouldn’t feel spongy or pull all the way up to the handlebar, and if it does you’ll need to recheck the cable tension or inspect for hidden looseness or improper routing.
Also, you should spin the wheels and then check that the brake pads should not be rubbing or pulling when the lever is not actually pulled.
If you feel resistance then back the barrel adjuster out a bit or even realign the pads.
NOTE: When you tune your brakes correctly it gives you more control, shorter stopping distances and more confidence on every trip, as you can make quick stops, or ride easier in wet weather conditions.
Conclusion On How To Change a Bicycle Brake Cable
Now, you have actually reached the end and by now your bicycle is ready to stop like a champion because replacing bicycle brake cables can actually keep your bicycle safe, responsive, and enjoyable to ride.
So just remember that well-functioning brakes give you more control, safer stopping, and peace of mind.
Now, if you want to ask some questions or queries then you can comment below.
FAQ’s on How To Change a Bicycle Brake Cable
Q1. How do I know if my brake cable tension is correct?
Answer: First you need to press the brake lever and if it feels firm and engages halfway then it is fine, and if the lever extends all the way to the handlebar then the cable is probably too loose and if the pads are actually rubbing without lever input it means it’s actually too tight.
Q2. Are front and rear brake cables the same?
Answer: The cables are generally the same, but the length can actually vary as rear cables are usually longer due to them going through more of the bike frame, so make sure you buy a long enough cable to suit your specific setup.
References:
[1] How to lubricate cables?
https://bicycles.stackexchange.com/questions/24255/how-to-lubricate-cables
Jonathan, the passionate owner of Bicycle Time, brings a lifelong love for bikes and automotive craftsmanship, that reflects into every corner of the shop. With deep passion in both cycling and automotive accessories, Jonathan is more than just an expert.