The Shimano BR-6700 [paid link] brake calipers, part of the Ultegra 6700 series, offer a high level [paid link] of stopping power and modulation for road cyclists. However, improper installation is one of the leading causes of poor performance, premature wear, and safety concerns. This guide focuses exclusively on the BR-6700 [paid link] and details the most common installation mistakes riders make, how to avoid them, and the technical knowledge needed for an optimal setup.
Understanding the BR-6700 Caliper Design
The BR-6700 [paid link] is a dual-pivot brake caliper designed for enhanced braking efficiency and better lever feel. Its low-profile design and symmetrical dual-pivot architecture improve power distribution. While it’s straightforward to install for experienced mechanics, even minor deviations from correct procedure can drastically reduce braking quality.
Tools Required
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link] (4-6 Nm range)
- Brake cable cutter
- Cable end cap crimper
- Ruler or caliper gauge
- Isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth
- Phillips head screwdriver (for pad holder tension)
Mistake 1: Incorrect Caliper Centering
One of the most frequent mistakes involves misaligning the caliper during installation. The BR-6700 caliper must be perfectly centered over the wheel rim to apply even braking force. An off-center caliper can lead to uneven pad wear, brake drag, and a pulling sensation during braking.
To avoid this, after loosely attaching the caliper bolt to the frame or fork, apply the brake lever and tighten the mounting bolt while the pads are clamped onto the rim. This centers the caliper naturally. Always use a torque wrench [paid link] and tighten to Shimano’s specified 6–8 Nm.
Mistake 2: Using Worn or Contaminated Brake Pads
New installations sometimes reuse old pads. If those pads are worn unevenly or contaminated with oil, they compromise the BR-6700’s efficiency. Additionally, pads designed for different rim surfaces (e.g., carbon) can significantly reduce stopping power if used on aluminum rims.
Ensure the pads are Shimano-compatible and not overly worn. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the braking surface of the pads and the rim before initial use.
Mistake 3: Improper Brake Cable Routing and Tension
Cable routing that introduces friction or incorrect tension can ruin lever feel. In the BR-6700’s case, smooth cable flow is vital for consistent braking. Cables should not be kinked or routed with tight bends.
Moreover, incorrect tension—either too tight or too loose—prevents the brake arms from returning smoothly and reduces modulation. When tightening the cable anchor bolt, the brake pads should be about 1–2mm from the rim. After initial tension is set, fine-tune using the barrel adjuster.
Mistake 4: Forgetting to Set Pad Toe-In
Ignoring toe-in adjustment can lead to brake squeal—a common issue with rim brakes. The BR-6700 benefits from slight toe-in, where the front of the pad contacts the rim slightly before the rear.
Shimano recommends a toe-in of approximately 0.5mm. Achieve this by inserting a business card behind the rear end of the brake pad when tightening the pad holder. Proper toe-in reduces noise and enhances modulation.
Mistake 5: Over-Tightening Pad Holder Bolts
The BR-6700 uses bolt-on pad holders with replaceable cartridges. Over-torquing these bolts can strip threads or distort pad alignment. This results in the pad not sitting flush against the rim, which reduces braking effectiveness.
Tighten pad holder bolts to a maximum of 5 Nm using a torque wrench [paid link]. Ensure the pad sits parallel to the braking surface and does not make contact with the tire.
Mistake 6: Failing to Recheck After Initial Bedding
After installing the BR-6700 brakes, riders often forget to test and readjust after the first few rides. During this period, cable stretch and minor shifts in alignment can occur.
Always check pad position, cable tension, and centering after a 50–100 km bedding period. Make minor corrections to ensure performance remains consistent.
Mistake 7: Ignoring Brake Arm Pivot Lubrication
While not needed at every installation, overlooking pivot lubrication over repeated installations or long storage can stiffen movement. A drop of light synthetic lubricant at the pivot points (without contaminating pads or rims) helps maintain smooth brake action.
Clean off excess lubricant and ensure no oil contacts the braking surfaces.
Preventative Best Practices for BR-6700 Installation
- Always inspect the frame or fork’s mounting surface for dirt or corrosion before installing the caliper.
- Use high-quality, compressionless brake housing for optimal cable response.
- Replace frayed or corroded cables rather than reusing.
- Record and use Shimano’s official torque values to avoid component stress or damage.
Conclusion
Precision is everything when installing Shimano’s BR-6700 brake calipers. Skipping steps, using incompatible parts, or neglecting fine adjustments not only reduces performance but can pose serious safety risks. Avoiding these common installation mistakes ensures smooth lever feel, powerful stopping, and long-term reliability. Properly installed, the BR-6700 delivers braking confidence worthy of its Ultegra name.