The Shimano BR-R7170 [paid link] disc brake system is known for its precision, smooth performance, and reliable stopping power. However, like all components, improper installation, maintenance, or setup can lead to significant issues. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most common and costly mistakes riders make with the Shimano BR-R7170 [paid link] and provide expert advice on how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect Brake Pad Installation
Installing the brake pads incorrectly is one of the easiest mistakes to make and can significantly impact your braking performance.
The Mistake:
Not aligning the brake pads properly with the rotor or using incompatible pads can cause uneven wear, noisy braking, or even damage to the rotor. Additionally, failing to ensure that the pads are installed in the correct direction can lead to reduced braking efficiency.
How to Avoid:
- Always ensure that the pads are installed with the correct orientation, with the arrow markings facing forward.
- Check the pad wear indicator before installation to make sure they are compatible with the Shimano BR-R7170 [paid link] caliper.
- Make sure the pads are aligned with the rotor, ensuring the entire surface contacts evenly.
- Use Shimano-approved pads for optimal performance and longevity.
2. Improper Hydraulic Fluid Maintenance
The Shimano BR-R7170 is a hydraulic disc brake system, and improper hydraulic fluid maintenance can lead to spongy braking or complete brake failure.
The Mistake:
Failing to regularly check and replace the hydraulic fluid or air in the brake system is a common error. If the fluid is not properly bled, air can get trapped in the brake lines, leading to poor braking performance or unresponsive brakes.
How to Avoid:
- Regularly bleed your brakes to ensure that there is no air in the hydraulic system.
- Use Shimano’s recommended brake fluid, and make sure you’re not mixing fluids from different manufacturers.
- Inspect the brake lines for any signs of leaks or damage that could compromise the system.
- Follow Shimano’s detailed instructions for the BR-R7170 hydraulic brake bleeding procedure to ensure it is done correctly.
3. Misaligned Brake Rotor
Rotor alignment plays a crucial role in the overall performance of your Shimano BR-R7170 disc brakes. If your rotor is out of alignment, it can result in noisy braking, excessive pad wear, or even failure to engage properly.
The Mistake:
Not checking rotor alignment regularly or neglecting to fix minor misalignments when they occur is a costly mistake that can result in poor braking efficiency and added wear to both the pads and rotor.
How to Avoid:
- Periodically check the rotor alignment using a rotor truing tool or by manually inspecting the rotor for any bends or warping.
- Make sure the rotor is mounted securely and free of any debris that may cause it to misalign.
- If you notice a slight wobble or rub, use a truing tool to straighten the rotor to ensure smooth and quiet operation.
4. Over-tightening Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts
Brake calipers must be mounted securely, but over-tightening the mounting bolts is a common mistake that can cause damage to the caliper, frame, or fork.
The Mistake:
Over-tightening the caliper mounting bolts can cause the caliper to deform, which can lead to braking issues such as uneven pad wear or rotor rubbing. Additionally, excessive torque can strip the threads in the mounting holes.
How to Avoid:
- Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the caliper mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification (typically around 6–8 Nm).
- Tighten the bolts gradually and evenly to ensure proper alignment and avoid applying excessive pressure on any one side.
- Check the caliper alignment after tightening the bolts to ensure it remains centered on the rotor.
5. Using Low-Quality or Incompatible Components
Shimano designs its components to work seamlessly together, but using aftermarket or incompatible parts with your BR-R7170 can result in degraded performance, premature wear, or even component failure.
The Mistake:
Opting for low-cost or third-party components such as rotors, pads, or brake lines may seem like a good idea to save money, but they often don’t offer the same performance or compatibility as Shimano-approved parts.
How to Avoid:
- Always use Shimano-approved parts specifically designed for the BR-R7170 system.
- If replacing components such as pads or rotors, make sure they are compatible with the BR-R7170 hydraulic system and meet Shimano’s performance standards.
- Avoid mixing brands or components that may not be optimized for use with the Shimano hydraulic braking system.
6. Not Keeping the Brake System Clean
Brakes, especially hydraulic disc brakes like the BR-R7170, require regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance and prevent contamination.
The Mistake:
Failing to clean the brake components, especially the rotors and pads, can result in decreased braking performance and increased wear. Dirt, debris, and oil can also contaminate the brake pads, leading to squealing, reduced stopping power, and uneven pad wear.
How to Avoid:
- Clean the rotors regularly using a degreaser and a clean cloth to remove oil, grease, and dirt.
- Avoid using regular cleaning products or anything with oil or solvents, as they can damage the rotor surface or contaminate the brake pads.
- Inspect the brake pads for contamination and replace them if necessary. Ensure that your pads are kept free from oil, dirt, or grease, which could affect braking performance.
7. Failing to Adjust Lever Reach and Pad Clearance
For optimum braking performance, the brake lever reach and pad clearance must be adjusted properly for your hand size and riding style.
The Mistake:
Not adjusting the brake lever reach or the pad clearance can result in poor brake feel or excessive lever pull, reducing braking power and comfort.
How to Avoid:
- Adjust the brake lever reach so that it’s comfortable for your hands and allows for full control over the braking force.
- Set the pad clearance to ensure the pads are aligned with the rotor without rubbing, which will improve braking efficiency and extend the life of both the pads and the rotor.
- Follow Shimano’s guidelines for adjusting both lever reach and pad clearance on the BR-R7170 to ensure they are set to optimal levels.
8. Ignoring Rotor Warping
Over time, especially with heavy use, the rotor on your Shimano BR-R7170 disc brake may develop a slight warp, which can result in brake judder, noise, or uneven pad wear.
The Mistake:
Not inspecting the rotor for warping or allowing a warped rotor to remain in place can negatively affect braking performance and cause unnecessary wear on the brake pads.
How to Avoid:
- Regularly inspect the rotor for any signs of warping, such as uneven gaps between the pads and rotor or excessive noise during braking.
- If warping is detected, use a rotor truing tool to gently straighten it. If the warping is significant, replace the rotor to maintain optimal braking performance.
9. Not Checking Brake System Before Every Ride
Before heading out on a ride, it’s crucial to check the overall condition of your Shimano BR-R7170 brake system to ensure it’s functioning at its best.
The Mistake:
Skipping a pre-ride inspection can lead to serious safety issues. Small problems, such as loose bolts, low brake fluid, or worn-out pads, can quickly turn into bigger problems on the road.
How to Avoid:
- Perform a pre-ride check of the brake pads, rotor alignment, hydraulic fluid level [paid link], and brake caliper mounting.
- Check the brake lever feel and ensure there is no sponginess or excessive travel.
- Inspect for any signs of leaks or damage to the hydraulic system, and address them immediately.
By avoiding these common mistakes with the Shimano BR-R7170 disc brake system, you can ensure that your brakes perform at their best, giving you reliable stopping power and a safer, more enjoyable ride. Proper installation, maintenance, and regular checks will go a long way in preventing costly repairs and replacements, keeping your bike running smoothly for many rides to come.