How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano BR-R7070 Disc Brakes

Posted on
in Brakes, Shimano

The Shimano BR-R7070 [paid link] hydraulic disc brakes are designed for road cyclists who demand reliable and consistent braking power in all conditions. Whether you’re upgrading or replacing your braking system, ensuring proper installation and maintenance is crucial for peak performance and safety.

This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing, adjusting, and maintaining the Shimano BR-R7070 [paid link] disc brakes, helping you avoid common mistakes and keep your brakes running smoothly for years.

Tools Required

Installing Shimano BR-R7070 Disc Brakes

1. Preparing Your Bike

Before installing your new disc brakes, make sure your frame and fork are clean. Remove any dirt or grease from the mounting areas to ensure a secure fit.

2. Mounting the Caliper

  • Position the Shimano BR-R7070 [paid link] caliper over the mounting holes on the frame or fork.
  • Use the correct adapter if your frame has a different mounting standard (flat-mount vs. post-mount).
  • Insert and lightly tighten the mounting bolts using a 5mm hex key [paid link].

3. Installing the Rotor

  • Secure the disc rotor onto the hub using either the center-lock system or six-bolt attachment method.
  • If using center-lock rotors, tighten the lockring using a rotor lockring tool [paid link].
  • If using six-bolt rotors, tighten each bolt in a star pattern to prevent warping.
  • Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque (usually 6-8 Nm).

4. Attaching the Brake Hose

  • Route the hydraulic hose properly along the frame.
  • Cut the hose to the required length if necessary, ensuring a smooth and unstrained path.
  • Install the olive and insert before tightening the hose connection to the caliper.

5. Bleeding the Brakes

Since hydraulic disc brakes rely on fluid pressure, it’s crucial to bleed the system after installation:

  • Open the bleed port on the caliper and attach the bleed kit [paid link].
  • Slowly pump the brake lever to remove air bubbles.
  • Top off the system with Shimano mineral oil [paid link].
  • Close the bleed port and wipe away excess fluid with isopropyl alcohol.

Adjusting Shimano BR-R7070 Disc Brakes

1. Centering the Caliper

  • Loosen the caliper mounting bolts slightly.
  • Squeeze the brake lever to align the caliper naturally.
  • While holding the lever, tighten the mounting bolts evenly.
  • Release the lever and check that the rotor spins freely without rubbing.

2. Adjusting Brake Lever Feel

  • If the brake lever feels too soft or too firm, fine-tune it by adjusting the reach and free stroke using the small screws on the lever.
  • For inconsistent braking power, perform another bleed to ensure no air remains in the system.

3. Checking Brake Pad Alignment

  • Inspect the pads to ensure they are parallel to the rotor.
  • If there is uneven wear, realign the caliper or replace worn pads.

Maintaining Shimano BR-R7070 Disc Brakes

1. Cleaning the Rotors and Pads

  • Regularly clean rotors with isopropyl alcohol to remove contaminants.
  • Avoid touching the braking surface with bare hands, as oil can degrade performance.

2. Inspecting for Wear

  • Check brake pads for wear indicators; replace pads if they are below 1mm thickness.
  • Inspect rotors for warping or deep grooves and replace if necessary.

3. Preventing Brake Fade

  • Avoid excessive braking on long descents to prevent overheating.
  • Use controlled, progressive braking rather than dragging the brakes continuously.

4. Regular Fluid Maintenance

  • Shimano recommends replacing brake fluid every 12-18 months to maintain optimal performance.
  • If braking feels inconsistent, bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Shimano BR-R7070 Disc Brakes

1. Brake Rub or Noise

  • Ensure calipers are centered and the rotor is true.
  • If noise persists, check for contamination on the rotor or pads.

2. Spongy or Weak Braking

  • Air bubbles in the hydraulic system may require a full bleed.
  • Check for leaks in the brake hose connections.

3. Inconsistent Braking Power

  • Dirty or contaminated pads should be replaced.
  • Inspect the rotor for damage or warping.

4. Lever Feels Too Hard or Too Soft

  • Adjust the free stroke and reach settings.
  • Ensure the system has the correct amount of mineral oil [paid link].

Comparing Shimano BR-R7070 to Other Road Disc Brakes

The BR-R7070 is Shimano’s mid-tier hydraulic disc brake system, offering reliable performance at an affordable price. Compared to higher-end models like the Shimano Dura-Ace R9270, the BR-R7070 lacks Servo Wave technology but still delivers excellent modulation and stopping power.

For those considering an upgrade, the R8070 Ultegra series offers slightly improved heat management and lighter weight, while maintaining similar ease of installation and maintenance.

Conclusion

The Shimano BR-R7070 hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent and powerful stopping performance for road cyclists. By following proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance practices, you can ensure your brakes remain reliable and safe for every ride. Regular cleaning, pad inspections, and fluid maintenance will keep your braking system in peak condition for years to come.