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Expert's Corner 
News > Bicycle Touring Tips > How to maintain your brakes
How to maintain your brakes
Over time, your brakes can start to loosen, so you'll want to perform some routine maintenance on them from time to time.
Start by checking your brake levers. Just give them a squeeze and put some forward pressure on the bicycle. They should remain engaged and stop you from rolling forward. Many brake clamps have adjustment screws at the end of their cables - if you're not pleased with how yours are holding up, loosen or tighten the screw as needed.
Make sure to check your pads. If the grooves have disappeared, it's time to replace them. You should also give the brake cable a visual inspection - keep an eye out for rust or other signs of wear. If they appear worn out, have them replaced in a shop.
Although you can perform a lot of brake repairs yourself, if you're planning on some lengthy bike touring, it may be best to head into a shop and have a professional give them a look. It's definitely worth the peace of mind!
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