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Another no0b question - leverage on brake levers and general fit questions

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Another no0b question - leverage on brake levers and general fit questions

Old 06-15-08, 12:10 PM
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Another no0b question - leverage on brake levers and general fit questions

So y'all convinced me to get a nice bike, evil evil people that you are.

I currently ride a "flat bar road bike". When I've test-ridden drop-handlebar bikes, there's something that really unnerves me: when my hands are on the hoods, I feel that I can't get good leverage on the brake levers. It's hard to compress them and my stopping distance is longer than I'd like. Leverage is better in the drops, but it's a little awkward to stop that way. Also, when descending a steep hill, being in the drops makes me feel like I'm going to pitch forward and go over the handlebars. I've test-ridden WSD bikes with smaller hoods and brake levers, but the problem remains.

I also feel a bit too stretched out with my hands on the hoods, but "bunched up" in the drops. Is that just how it's supposed to feel? Also my upper back and neck muscles feel tired, but I imagine that's to be expected because of the more horizontal position.

I've checked my measurements against several online fit calculators and the bikes I'm riding seem to be in the right ball park at least. Despite my complaints, I have to say - riding a very nice bike is a new experience. The responsiveness and manuverability are exciting.
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Old 06-15-08, 12:48 PM
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you can adjust the "cockpit" to get better leverage. also, i find you tend to get better grab on campy over shimano. thirdly, get good pads and calipers, and you wont need as much force as you think.

the only levers that are less trustworthy from the hoods are old non-aero levers...almost worthless
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Old 06-15-08, 01:21 PM
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Take any fit system based on linear measurements with a grain of salt. Much more accurate fit systems based on your posture on the bike (body angles and weight distribution) and your pedaling technique.

Braking problems are often because of poor brake adjustment and poor technique rather than poor bike fit. Make sure your brake cables are not too tight. Brakes are designed so that braking power is light and easy to control in the first half of the pull. Maximum stopping power comes in the second half of the pull. Brake cable tension needs to be adjusted so the brakes don't lock up until they are almost bottomed out against the handlebar.

Also, you can slide the brake levers up and down the handlebar to give you different amounts of grip. Find a position that works well for you, then adjust the cables to fine tune your braking power. Smaller people may need to reset the brake levers for their hand size.

When you're going down steep hills, slide your butt back to the end of the seat. Push your arms farther out in front of you than normal. That keeps your weight balanced and gives you a lot more control during cornering and braking.
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