from the website www.howto.tv This step by step guide will tell you how to test, service and if necessary replace your bike brakes. First, identify the type of brakes on your bike – the V brakes found on mountain bikes, cantilever types, disc brakes or the side pull breaks. Whichever one you have, they must be set up properly. In terms of tools you will need is an allen key or a small spanner. Some bikes come with a spanner supplied. Follow this simple four stage method. First grab your brake levers. They should feel tight and have a smooth action. If the lever goes straight down to the handlebar, adjust your brakes immediately. This involves increasing the tension in the brake cables. If you have V or cantilever brakes, you will need to adjust the screw attachments on the brake levers. Screw out the tensioning bolt until the brakes are active, then tighten the locking nut back against the brake lever. Next check that your brake pads are not worn down, and that they are wearing evenly. If part of the pad is missing the wheel rim, the pad will either need to be cut down or replaced. If there are signs of major wear on either the brake and or wheel rim, one or both may require replacement. The first step in replacing the pads is to operate the brake quick release mechanism, found at the top of the brake arms. Undo the nuts securing the brake pads, take out the old ones and pop in the new. Ensure the pads are in the right position and the right way up before tightening the …