How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano BR-R8070 Disc Brakes

Posted on
in No category

The Shimano BR-R8070 [paid link] disc brakes are part of Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 hydraulic disc brake system. They offer excellent stopping power, reliability, and responsiveness, making them a top choice for performance road bikes. However, to ensure optimal performance and longevity, proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are crucial. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to install, adjust, and maintain your Shimano BR-R8070 [paid link] disc brakes, ensuring you get the best out of your braking system.

Tools Required

  • Shimano BR-R8070 [paid link] disc brake set
  • Hydraulic brake fluid (Shimano mineral oil [paid link])
  • Brake rotors (Shimano recommended sizes)
  • 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Brake caliper mount adapters (if required)
  • Rotor lockrings (for proper installation)
  • Cable housing and cables (if applicable for the system)
  • Brake bleed kit [paid link]
  • Cleaning materials (rags, degreaser)
  • Disc brake rotor alignment tool
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Shimano hydraulic brake bleed funnel

Installing the Shimano BR-R8070 Disc Brakes

Proper installation is critical to the performance of your Shimano BR-R8070 disc brakes. Follow these steps for a smooth installation process.

  1. Remove Existing Components: If you’re upgrading from older brake systems, start by removing the old brake calipers, rotors, and cables.
  2. Install the Brake Rotors: Ensure that your rotors are the correct size (160mm, 140mm, etc.) for your frame and fork. Use the correct Shimano lockrings and torque them to the recommended value (usually 40Nm). Ensure that the rotor is installed in the correct direction as indicated by the arrows on the rotor.
  3. Mount the Brake Calipers: Mount the BR-R8070 calipers on their respective frame or fork mounts using the correct adapter (if needed). Tighten the bolts to the specified torque value using a 5mm or 6mm Allen wrench [paid link], ensuring they are secure but not over-tightened.
  4. Connect the Brake Levers: If you’re working with the Di2 system, connect the hydraulic brake levers to the brake calipers using the correct Shimano hose fittings. Make sure there are no bends in the hose and that it is routed cleanly along the frame.
  5. Test Brake Levers: Before moving on, actuate the brake lever to check for any leaks or issues. If the brake lever feels squishy, you may need to bleed the brakes before proceeding.

Adjusting the Shimano BR-R8070 Disc Brakes

Once installed, fine-tuning your Shimano BR-R8070 disc brakes is essential to ensure optimal performance.

  1. Align the Brake Calipers: After installing the calipers, check for rotor rubbing. Loosen the caliper mounting bolts and position the caliper over the rotor so that it is centered. Tighten the bolts securely, ensuring the caliper remains in the correct position.
  2. Adjust Pad Spacing: Use the adjustment screws on the caliper to set the correct pad spacing. This will prevent drag and ensure the pads are evenly contacting the rotor. Adjust until the pads are just slightly away from the rotor when the lever is not being pulled.
  3. Brake Lever Reach Adjustment: Adjust the reach of the brake lever to ensure comfort and responsiveness. This can be done by turning the reach adjustment screw located on the brake lever.
  4. Test and Fine-Tune: Pull the brake lever a few times and check for consistent stopping power. If the braking feels weak, you may need to adjust the hydraulic fluid or bleed the brakes.

Maintaining the Shimano BR-R8070 Disc Brakes

Regular maintenance of your Shimano BR-R8070 disc brakes will keep them functioning at their best. Here are the essential maintenance tasks to keep in mind.

1. Brake Pad Inspection and Replacement

  • Check for Wear: Regularly inspect the brake pads for wear. Shimano BR-R8070 pads are designed for high-performance road cycling, but they still need periodic inspection to ensure that they haven’t worn too thin.
  • Replacement: If the pad thickness has decreased to 1mm or less, it’s time to replace the pads. To replace them, remove the wheel, unmount the caliper, and slide out the worn pads. Install the new pads, ensuring they are properly aligned with the rotor.

2. Brake Fluid Maintenance and Bleeding

  • Check Fluid Levels: Over time, brake fluid can degrade or evaporate, causing a spongy lever feel. Ensure that the fluid levels are maintained. If the lever feels soft or spongy, perform a brake bleed.
  • Bleeding Process: To bleed the Shimano BR-R8070 system, attach the Shimano brake bleed funnel to the caliper. Fill the funnel with Shimano mineral oil [paid link], open the bleed valve, and pump the brake lever slowly to expel air from the hydraulic system. Close the valve when no more air bubbles appear, and top off the fluid to the recommended level [paid link].
  • Cleaning the System: Clean any excess fluid from the calipers and brake components using isopropyl alcohol and a clean rag.

3. Rotor and Caliper Cleaning

  • Clean the Rotor: Brake rotors collect grime and debris, which can negatively affect braking performance. Regularly clean the rotor with isopropyl alcohol to remove contaminants.
  • Caliper Maintenance: Clean the brake calipers with a brush and degreaser to remove any brake dust or grime. Make sure to avoid any oil or lubricant on the braking surface to prevent reduced braking efficiency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Shimano BR-R8070 Disc Brakes

Despite their reliability, Shimano BR-R8070 disc brakes may encounter some common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

  1. Spongy Brake Lever: This is often due to air in the hydraulic system. Perform a brake bleed to remove any trapped air and restore the proper feel.
  2. Brake Drag: If the brake pads are rubbing against the rotor even when the brake lever isn’t pulled, you may need to re-align the caliper or adjust the pad spacing.
  3. Squealing Brakes: This can happen when the rotor or pads are contaminated. Clean both components thoroughly, and if the problem persists, replace the pads.
  4. Weak Braking Performance: If your brakes aren’t stopping as effectively as they should, check for air in the system, low fluid levels, or worn-out brake pads.

Conclusion

By following the proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance procedures for your Shimano BR-R8070 disc brakes, you’ll ensure that your braking system operates at peak performance for years. Regular maintenance, including pad inspection, fluid replacement, and rotor cleaning, will keep your brakes responsive and reliable on every ride.