Correct tool for tightening locknuts on brake cables?

Alan Quay

Esteemed Pedelecer
Dec 4, 2012
2,351
1,076
Devon
Blimey, there's a lot of BS and miss information in this thread!

1. These adjusters are nearly always an alluminium alloy.

2. They nearly always constitute two parts. One part is the adjuster, the other part a lock nut.

3. Both parts are slotted so that cables can be removed and replaced easily. As a result the adjuster itself can also be replaced easily.

4. Its function is to adjust the brakes. That may be because of wear, cable stretch, personal preference, buckled wheels or the desire to get rid of one's spouse.

5. It s not the only adjustment available for the brakes, but possibly the easiest to use, potentially while riding.

6. It's designed to be used with no tools (other than your own opposible thumb/finger arrangement).

7. Many current bikes come with them as standard. They are not 'old school', although I conceed that better products are available.

8. They are suitable for use on mech disc, linear pull and cantilever brakes. (I presume no use on hydraulic). They probably work with side pull as well.

9. If it is stuck, jammed or otherwise fer-knackered can be replaced for about £2, and takes about a minute.

Hope that helps.