How to adjust cable-actuated disc brakes

Many cable-actuated braking systems use a single-pivot system. Only one pad moves while the other is stuck in a fixed position. If the static pad isn’t adjusted correctly, it will rub against the disc rotor or it can lead to spongy braking if positioned too far from the rotor.

The static pad is usually the one closest to the bike. Visually check its position in relation to the disc rotor. It needs to be positioned as closely to the disc rotor as possible without touching it.

Adjust the inside pad if necessary. It can be adjusted using a spacer on the bike-facing side of the calliper.

Use an allen key to turn it clockwise to move the pad towards the rotor or anti-clockwise to move it away. Make sure it is positioned as close as possible to the rotor without touching it.

If the brake pad is still rubbing against the rotor after adjusting its position, it may be because the calliper isn’t positioned correctly on the frame.

This can be easily adjusted.

Partially unscrew the calliper bolts so that the calliper can be moved.

Pull the brake lever. When the brake pads press against the rotor, they will pull the calliper into the correct position.

While continuing to tightly hold the lever, tighten the calliper bolts back up to the recommended torque limit.

If you need to pull the lever a long way before the pad makes contact with the rotor, you need to adjust the cable tension. Here's how.

Use a hex key or Allen key to loosen the pinch bolt that connects the cable to the calliper. You don't need to completely unscrew it, it only needs to be loose enough for you to pull the cable through the clamp.

Use one hand to pull the cable down, ensuring it is as tense as possible, and then tighten the bolt with your other hand. Don’t exceed the recommended torque limit when tightening the bolt.

Make final adjustments with the barrel adjuster on top of the calliper. As the pad wears down with use, you'll need to use the barrel adjuster to adjust the cable tension accordingly. The more the pad wears down, the more you'll need to extend the barrel adjuster.

Turn the barrel adjuster until you find the correct tension. You only need to do this in small increments. Pull the brake lever each time to check. Once correct, there should still be a little play in the lever, but not too much.