Originally Posted by
DBC Steve
This is a front brake noodle -- you can see the same part on the Surly LHT. Looks like you may not need it since your front brake cable routing has a fairly well rounded radius. Check out the Surly web site to see how the noodle is installed, or a closeup of other pictures of LHT's. Here is a picture of the noodle installed on my 1983 Specialized Expedition. This same design noodle is carried by my LBS in both silver and black, and comes with the headset bracket/holder. Sorry the picture is out of focus but you get the idea. Note that there is very little space to include both the noodle and the adjuster. Hope this helps.
Thanks. I get it now! I guess I'll take a look at it tomorrow night and decide if I will install it. I took the bike for somewhat of a test spin (In slow circles in my basement) and the brakes seem to work OK as is. I guess the noodle is just for changing the direction of the cable routing. Thanks all for the helpful information!