How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara

Introduction

If your single-pivot caliper brakes on a Schwinn Solara bicycle are creating a grinding noise when they brake, shaking of the wheel during braking, or decreased responsiveness to pressure on the brake pedal, they require tuning. Brake tuning is necessary to account for wear on the drum and lining that happens when the brake system is used. It is important to take caution during disassembly by following appropriate techniques to ensure a proper repair.

What you need

Step 1 How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara

How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara, How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara: step 1, image 1 of 3

How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara, How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara: step 1, image 2 of 3

How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara, How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara: step 1, image 3 of 3

Set bike up on bike stand or have someone hold onto the bike, keeping it balanced.
Pull on brake levers so that the brakes pads are touching the edge of the rim.
If the top edge on either side of the brakes are misaligned with the top edge of the rim, your brake calipers will need to be tuned.

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Step 2

Using a 10 mm wrench, back out of the barrel adjuster on the brake calipers 2-3 turns.
With the same 10 mm wrench, loosen the pinch bolt at the bottom of brake caliper to release the brake wire.
Loosening the pinch bolt is optional.

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Step 3

How to Tune Single Pivot Caliper Brakes on a Schwinn Solara: step 3, image 3 of 3

With the 10 mm wrench, loosen the bolt connecting the brake caliper to the frame of the bicycle.
Adjust the brake caliper so that it is centered with the tire and rim. Tighten bolt back up when finished.
You may have to repeat this step a few times to ensure the caliper is centered with the tire and rim.

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Step 4

Take the 10 mm wrench and loosen the bolt on the back side of the brake pad.
Adjust the brake pads position on the rim by sliding it up and down along the surface of the rim until it is centered.
When finished, tighten the bolt for the brake pad back up to hold its position.
Adjusting the brakes may take several attempts.
The brake pad should not touch the tire at all.