Cantilever brake upgrade

[iRob]

Recently got given a stok-oue Giant Boulder rigid frame with cantilever brakes (if you don't know what they are I fear you may not be able to help).

 

They are poo. Old, perished and sand covered Prestik would do a better job at stopping my bike.

 

Has anyone upgraded them or is there a better, yet similar, replacement set out there? I'd like to maintain the late 80s cutting edge technology which adorns this baby, so I'd prefer to stick with cantilevers.

 

Shot.

[deanbean]

Rob there was a method of putting more braking force onto the wheel with cantilever brakes, I used it about 12 years ago to fix mine, but I cannot remember exactly what I did. It was something about shortening the cable that connects the two levers, then using a cable hanger to pull them. It was not recommended as you reduce the tyre clearence, and could stop you suddenly if you had failure of the hanger or brake cable.

[deanbean]

 

Something like this, then the hanger needs to hook on lower.

Edited January 25, 2011 by deanbean

[Mojoman]

Maybe some decent pads would make a difference?

[iRob]

Ag the setup system is passed its replacement date thingy, the levers are broken, it looks all rusty etc but the pads look ok-ish. The brakes are crazy stiff, just ziltch power.

[Gman1834]

i were in the same situation some time ago. shortened the cables, added a roller to pull, change from plastic Cantilevers to steel. in the end i got v-brakes. Problem sorted.

[deanbean]

I'd get a set of v-brakes.

[iRob]

I'd get a set of v-brakes.

 

I'm going to see what I can manage. I've been itching to restore the bike for ages, well if making it an SS® can be considered restoring. The restoration itch is accompanied by a CRC order itch. Will see how it goes and keep you okes posted.