The Shimano SM-RT70 [paid link] disc brakes are a high-quality option for road cyclists seeking reliable and consistent braking performance. To maintain their optimal performance, proper care, maintenance, and timely adjustments are essential. This guide will walk you through the best practices to keep your SM-RT70 [paid link] disc brakes running at peak performance for years to come.

Regular Inspection for Performance Optimization

The first step in ensuring your SM-RT70 [paid link] disc brakes remain in top condition is to regularly inspect them. Over time, various factors, such as exposure to weather, riding conditions, and normal wear, can affect brake performance. Regular checks can help you identify issues before they become significant problems. Here are some key areas to focus on during your inspection:

Brake Pads

Inspect the brake pads for wear and ensure they have enough material left to provide proper braking force. Shimano recommends replacing the pads when the thickness is reduced to around 1mm. Additionally, check for any uneven wear or damage, which could indicate alignment issues or contamination.

Brake Rotors

The SM-RT70 rotors are designed to provide excellent heat dissipation and consistent braking performance. Check the rotors for any warping, cracks, or excessive wear. A rotor that is worn down or damaged can significantly affect braking performance. Measure the rotor thickness, and replace them if it falls below the minimum recommended thickness, typically 1.5mm.

Brake Fluid (For Hydraulic Systems)

For hydraulic disc brakes, such as the SM-RT70, maintaining the proper fluid level [paid link] is crucial for smooth and responsive braking. Ensure there are no leaks around the brake calipers or master cylinders, and check the brake fluid level [paid link] regularly. Top up or replace the fluid as necessary, following Shimano’s recommended intervals.

Proper Brake Pad Alignment

Incorrect brake pad alignment can cause uneven pad wear and reduced braking efficiency. Here are a few steps to ensure your SM-RT70 pads are properly aligned:

1. Check Pad Position: The pads should be parallel to the rotor surface. Misalignment can cause dragging or uneven wear, reducing braking power.
2. Adjust Caliper Position: If you notice uneven pad wear, the caliper may not be centered over the rotor. Loosen the caliper bolts slightly, squeeze the brake lever to center the caliper, and then retighten the bolts.

By ensuring the pads are aligned with the rotor surface, you can optimize braking force and reduce unnecessary wear on the system.

Cleaning and Lubrication

One of the most effective ways to maintain your Shimano SM-RT70 disc brakes is through regular cleaning. Cleaning helps prevent dirt and debris from interfering with the braking performance. Follow these cleaning steps:

Rotor Cleaning

1. Clean the Rotor Surface: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe the rotor surface, removing any dirt, oil, or brake pad residue. You can use isopropyl alcohol to clean the rotor if necessary, as it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue behind.
2. Avoid Contaminating the Rotor: Be cautious when handling the rotors to avoid getting oil or grease on them, as this can significantly affect braking performance. Always clean your hands before handling the rotors or pads.

Pad Cleaning

1. Remove the Pads: Gently remove the brake pads from the calipers and inspect them for dirt or oil contamination.
2. Clean with Alcohol: Use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a clean cloth or brush to clean the pads. Be sure to allow the pads to dry completely before reinstalling them.

General Cleaning

To keep your entire braking system running smoothly, clean the surrounding areas of your bike, such as the calipers, rotor bolts, and mounting points, to remove dirt and grime. Use a soft brush and mild soap solution if necessary.

Adjusting Brake Lever Reach and Travel

To enhance comfort and braking performance, you may need to adjust the brake lever reach and travel. This is especially true for riders who prefer a more personalized feel. Shimano SM-RT70 hydraulic systems often feature reach adjusters on the brake levers, allowing you to fine-tune the distance between the lever and the handlebar.

1. Reach Adjustment: To make the brake lever more or less responsive, adjust the reach by turning the adjustment screw on the brake lever. This will move the lever closer or farther from the handlebar.
2. Brake Pad Contact Adjustment: You can adjust the travel of the brake lever to ensure the pads contact the rotor at the correct time. This adjustment will help you get the right feel and responsiveness from your brakes.

Bleeding the Brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes, including the SM-RT70, rely on hydraulic fluid to operate. Over time, air can get trapped in the brake lines, which results in a spongy lever feel. To maintain optimal braking performance, you must bleed the brakes regularly to remove air bubbles. Here’s a simplified process for bleeding Shimano hydraulic disc brakes:

1. Prepare the Tools: Use Shimano’s official bleeding kit, which includes the correct brake fluid and syringes for a clean, controlled process.
2. Open the Bleed Port: Use the appropriate tool to open the bleed port on the brake caliper.
3. Inject Brake Fluid: Slowly inject the brake fluid into the caliper, ensuring that all air bubbles are purged from the system.
4. Close the Bleed Port: Once the fluid flows without bubbles, close the bleed port securely.

Ensure that the brake fluid is at the proper level [paid link] in the master cylinder, and test the brakes to confirm proper lever feel before taking your bike for a ride.

Rotor and Pad Replacement

As your Shimano SM-RT70 disc brakes wear down, replacing the brake pads and rotors is essential to maintain performance. Here’s a brief guide for replacing them:

1. Remove the Old Pads: Unscrew the pad retention pins or bolts and remove the old pads.
2. Install New Pads: Place the new pads into the caliper, ensuring they are correctly positioned.
3. Install New Rotors: If the rotors are too worn, remove them from the hub, install the new rotors, and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

Maximizing the performance of your Shimano SM-RT70 disc brakes is about regular maintenance, timely adjustments, and proper care. By staying on top of cleaning, inspecting, and making small adjustments, you can ensure your brakes continue to deliver superior performance throughout your cycling adventures. With the right attention, your SM-RT70 disc brakes will continue to offer smooth, reliable stopping power for many miles.