One problem with Vbrakes is, unlike side-pulls and center-pulls, you can't really man-handle them into position and expect them to stay. They will revert to the setting based on the small adjustment screws on each side. Once you get them adjusted right, removing the cable to release pressure to a remove a wheel and then reconnecting them later should NOT change the setting. If the axle is not completely bottomed out in the drop-outs, then the brakes could be out of whack.


I never have a rubbing problem with any of my bikes with Vbrakes, and I keep them adjusted pretty close to the rim. The only time they rub, is when I've knocked a wheel out of true, and in that case I loosen the cable adjuster on the brake lever to allow clearance until I true the wheel. Which reminds me of another adjustment tip; I always tighten the cable clamp nut with the brake lever adjuster set a couple of turns out; that way I can make adjustments either way on the fly.