Introduction to Bicycle Brake Adjustment Workshop (2.5 Hours)

Overview 

This hands-on workshop by Bower Bikes is designed to help riders understand, inspect, and adjust their bicycle brake systems for safe and reliable performance. In just 2 hours, participants will gain practical experience with rim and disc brakes, including mechanical and hydraulic systems. Held at The Bower's Summer Hill workshop, the session blends theory, demonstration, and guided practice. 

Acknowledgement of Country 

We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet in Summer Hill, NSW. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. 

Who is this workshop for? 

• Beginner to intermediate riders who want to learn how their bike’s brakes work. 

• Commuters and recreational cyclists looking to improve braking performance and safety. 

• DIY bike enthusiasts interested in gaining hands-on experience with brake maintenance. 

• Anyone curious about how to fix brake squeal, poor stopping power, or rubbing pads. 

• No prior mechanical experience is required—just bring your bike (or use one provided) and a willingness to learn. 

Learning Objectives 

By the end of this 2.5 hour workshop, participants will be able to: 

1. Identify key components of rim and disc brake systems. 

1. Understand how braking works and how force is transferred. 

1. Diagnose common brake issues such as squealing, rubbing, and weak braking. 

1. Use essential bike tools safely and effectively for brake inspection and adjustment. 

1. Adjust rim brakes for pad alignment, cable tension, and arm centering. 

1. Adjust mechanical disc brakes for pad clearance, caliper centering, and cable tension. 

1. Perform basic maintenance on hydraulic disc brakes including pad replacement and rotor alignment. 

1. Build confidence in hands-on bike maintenance through guided practice and peer learning. 

Workshop Modules 

Module 1: Welcome & Safety (0:00 – 0:15) 

• Acknowledgement of Country 

• Workshop overview and facilitator introduction 

• Participant introductions 

• Safety briefing: tools, PPE, and workspace awareness 

Module 2: Brake System Basics (0:15 – 0:45) 

• Overview of brake types: rim vs disc, mechanical vs hydraulic 

• Anatomy of brake systems 

• Inspection checklist and common issues 

Module 3: Rim Brake Adjustment (0:45 – 1:15) 

• Pad alignment and toe-in 

• Cable tension and lever feel 

• Centering brake arms 

• Hands-on practice 

Module 4: Mechanical Disc Brake Adjustment (1:15 – 1:45) 

• Pad clearance and caliper centering 

• Cable tension and rotor rub 

• Hands-on practice and troubleshooting 

Module 5: Hydraulic Brake Overview & Maintenance (1:45 – 2:15) 

• How hydraulic systems work 

• Common issues and maintenance tips 

• Pad replacement and rotor alignment 

Module 6: Wrap-Up & Q&A (2:00 – 2:30) 

• Recap of key concepts 

• Final questions and discussion 

• Resources for further learning 

• Feedback and workshop close 

Location

SUMMER HILL

Inner West Sustainability Hub, 7 Prospect Road, Summer Hill NSW 2130 

Transportation and parking
Bower is located within 8-minute walking distance of Summer Hill/ Ashfield, Train Station. Parking is available on site or of the street.