BR-6700 Brake Pad Adjustments: How to Get Them Just Right

Posted on
in No category

The Shimano BR-6700 [paid link] brake calipers, part of the Ultegra 6700 groupset, are engineered for high-performance road cycling, delivering consistent modulation and stopping power. However, optimal performance depends heavily on precise brake pad adjustments. Misaligned pads not only reduce braking efficiency but also lead to premature rim and pad wear. This guide focuses exclusively on adjusting the BR-6700 [paid link] brake pads correctly, helping you achieve superior control and safety.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Brake Pad Adjustment

Proper pad alignment on the BR-6700 [paid link] calipers is crucial. These dual-pivot calipers are designed to distribute braking force evenly, but only when the pads engage the rim squarely and at the correct angle. Poor positioning results in uneven pad wear, rim damage, squealing, and loss of modulation.

Key adjustment parameters include:

  • Pad height relative to the braking surface.
  • Toe-in angle to prevent brake squeal.
  • Lateral alignment to avoid rotor or rim contact.
  • Equal pad-to-rim clearance on both sides.

These factors influence both braking consistency and rider safety.

Shimano BR-6700 Pad Mounting System Overview

The BR-6700 uses cartridge-style brake pads secured via a retaining bolt through a slotted holder. This design allows micro-adjustments in three axes—vertical, horizontal, and angular—making it possible to fine-tune pad position without removing the holder entirely.

Key hardware features:

  • Replaceable pads inserted into alloy holders.
  • A single 5mm bolt securing the holder to the brake arm.
  • Ovalized washer and spacer system for multi-directional adjustment.

Understanding the pad holder’s mechanics is essential for accurate adjustment.

Tools Required

  • 5mm hex wrench
  • Flat-blade screwdriver (for pad toe-in adjustment if needed)
  • Ruler or caliper gauge (for pad height measurement)
  • Clean rag
  • Rubbing alcohol (for cleaning rim surface)

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting BR-6700 Brake Pads

Positioning Pad Height Correctly

The pad should contact the braking surface of the rim without touching the tire or falling below the rim’s edge.

  • Loosen the pad securing bolt slightly.
  • Slide the pad up or down until it sits centered on the braking track.
  • Ensure there’s an even gap above and below the pad in relation to the rim’s surface.
  • Tighten the bolt just enough to hold the pad in place but allow for fine-tuning.

Pad height is critical—too high and it may damage the tire; too low and braking force diminishes.

Setting the Toe-In Angle

Toe-in refers to the slight angling of the pad so the leading edge contacts the rim first. This reduces squealing and improves modulation.

  • Insert a folded business card between the rim and the rear of the brake pad.
  • Press the brake lever lightly so the pad contacts the rim via the card.
  • While holding the brake lever, tighten the pad bolt securely.
  • Remove the card and inspect the gap—it should only exist at the rear edge of the pad.

This toe-in setup minimizes vibration and noise during braking.

Aligning Pads Laterally for Full Contact

Ensure the full pad surface meets the rim when braking:

  • With the pads loosely secured, engage the brake lever to bring the pads in contact with the rim.
  • Check that the pad face is flush against the rim with no tilting or gaps.
  • Adjust by gently rotating the pad holder around its mounting bolt.
  • Once flush, tighten the mounting bolt to the specified torque (5-7 Nm).

Proper lateral alignment enhances brake consistency and avoids pad edge wear.

Equalizing Pad Clearance

Each side of the BR-6700 caliper should retract evenly after braking. If one pad is closer to the rim:

  • Use the small spring tension screws located on each arm of the caliper.
  • Turn the screw clockwise to increase spring tension and push the arm outward.
  • Adjust until both pads sit equidistant from the rim.

Balanced pad clearance ensures predictable lever feel and brake return.

Testing and Final Adjustments

After completing the adjustments:

  • Spin the wheel to confirm no pad rub.
  • Squeeze the brake lever and verify solid contact without pull or delay.
  • Listen for squealing—if present, recheck toe-in and rim cleanliness.
  • Test braking on the road and re-adjust as needed.

BR-6700 calipers are sensitive to fine changes; double-check your work before assuming it’s done.

Troubleshooting Common Adjustment Issues

Pad rub after setup: Likely due to unequal spring tension or over-tightening. Recheck clearance screws and back off torque slightly.

Squealing brakes: Often caused by no toe-in or dirty rims. Clean rim surface and verify toe-in angle.

Uneven pad wear: Usually from misaligned holders. Realign pads to ensure full surface contact with the rim.

Pad slipping during braking: Indicates under-torqued bolts. Retighten pad retaining bolts to specification.

Long-Term Maintenance and Pad Adjustment Tips

  • Inspect pads for wear monthly; replace if less than 1mm remains.
  • Clean rims and pads regularly to prevent grit build-up and uneven wear.
  • Recheck alignment after wheel changes or major impacts.
  • Use only Shimano-compatible pads to ensure proper fit and braking characteristics.

Routine maintenance prolongs pad and rim life while keeping your braking safe and predictable.

FAQs: BR-6700 Brake Pad Adjustments

Q1: How often should I check pad alignment on BR-6700 brakes?
A: Every 1,000–1,500 km, or sooner if you notice braking issues or hear unusual noises.

Q2: Can I use aftermarket pads with BR-6700 calipers?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to use Shimano-compatible inserts to maintain fit and performance.

Q3: What causes one pad to stay closer to the rim?
A: Uneven spring tension in the caliper arms. Use the small tension screws to balance the arms.

Q4: How do I know if my pads are too worn?
A: Look for wear indicator grooves; if they are no longer visible, it’s time to replace the pads.

Q5: Why do my brakes squeal even after setting toe-in?
A: Check for contamination on the rim or pad surface. Clean both with isopropyl alcohol.

Q6: Should brake pads contact the rim edge?
A: No, pads must sit within the braking track without touching the tire or dropping below the rim.

Conclusion

Precision adjustment of the Shimano BR-6700 brake pads is essential for achieving safe, quiet, and responsive braking. By aligning the pads correctly—height, toe-in, and angle—you’ll preserve rim life, enhance control, and eliminate annoying issues like squeal or pad rub. Regular checks and minor tune-ups ensure your BR-6700 brakes continue performing at their best.