cuda2k

Yesterday I finished up most of the work on my Gazelle (short of bar tape) and took it around the block a couple times. The second thing I noticed (after how much I'm going to love riding this bike) is the difference in strength needed on the front vs rear brake. I realize that these brakes were made when the levers were non-aero and the brake spring was needed to return not only the brake but the lever to the outward position. But just wanted to know if it isn't surprising that they require what seems like double the force to over come the spring on the rear or of something may be out of whack a bit.

fyi: brakes are Shimano 600EX single pivot, full housing from lever to brake.

infinityeye

sticky cable. maybe check for binding along the route.

cuda2k

I'll double check the cable, but pre-clamp down on the brake I seem to remember testing the brake line for snags (been bit by that before). I did have one heck of a time getting the housing through the braze-ons on the top tube so perhaps I did get a pinch in there somewhere. 45 minutes till the end of the work day and then I can get home to check it out.

Walter

I've rode 600EX and though I don't think them as good as DiaCompe Royal Gran Compes (my #1 single pivot) I don't recall a ral noticeable difference between the spring strengths.

cuda2k

I checked them tonight, no issues with the cable, and I think my inital reaction was a bit off. While the back is certainly stronger, it isn't as big of a difference as I had first thought. Tomorrow I need to pull the rear pads to flatten them a little and the bike will be complete.