Skill Tip: Brake set-up

 

If you want to ride with one finger braking, which is
recommended, brake set-up is very important. Below are three
adjustments that will make your one finger braking work for you.

 

• Move the brake lever inboard on the handlebars - This
  means sliding the brake lever on the handlebar towards the stem until
  your index finger rests on the outer part of the lever, just before the
  notch at the end. The outer edge of your hand should be at the end of
  the handlebar. This is the place where you will get the best power for
  minimum effort.
• The next adjustment is called “reach adjustment” and the
  placement of these reach adjusters may differ from brake to brake -
  The typical adjustment is a 1.5 or 2mm allen key slot that sits between
  the brake lever and where the brake attaches to the handlebar. (photo
  insert of shimano brake). By turning the adjuster one way or the other,
  you will notice your brake lever will move closer or further away from
  the handlebar. The best position for your lever is when your index
  finger is resting on the lever and your last knuckle sits directly over
  the lever. Upon pulling the lever, it will initiate braking ­ optimal
  point of threshold is when the index finger is flexed around 90
  degrees.
• The last adjustment is the angle of the brake lever, or up / down
  angle - You want the angle to be approximately 45 degrees to begin
  with and experiment slightly from there. It’s important to have a
  neutral wrist for most of your riding - if it is cocked either way, you
  are increasing your risk of injury. This is why lever angle is so important.