Chloe Zhang
Removing a brake handle plastic clamp can be a tricky process. It is important to identify the type of brake handle and clamp you are working with, as different models may have unique detachment methods. For instance, some clamps may be too tight, while others may be too loose. In the case of curved handlebars, the cable threads into a clamp within the lever mechanism. Depending on the model, you may need to engage the lever several times to detach the cable, or remove a cable cover to access the clamp. In some cases, you may need to cut the clamp with a hacksaw or use a wrench to loosen it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brake handle clamp type | Metal or plastic |
| Clamp shape | Circular or with clampy bits |
| Handlebar type | Curved or straight |
| Installation/removal method | Slide on/off, screw shut, cut off, hacksaw |
| Cable type | Short pull (canti/caliper/u-brake) or long pull (v-brake/mechanical disc) |
| Cable attachment | Ferrule, end caps, or bare wire |
| Cable housing | Flexible or rigid |
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What You'll Learn
Rotate the lever to reduce friction
To remove the right brake handle plastic clamp, you may need to rotate the lever to reduce friction. This is because the lever clamp is elliptical, so changing the lever position as you go can help to reduce sticking.
One way to achieve this rotation is to use a spring-loaded arm or friction plate, which provides resistance to the rotation. This can be submerged in high-viscosity grease in a sealed container to provide damping and lubrication, creating a smooth and expensive feel. A larger friction plate will decrease any abrupt reaction.
Another method is to clamp a piece of rubber or thin cork against the sidewall and shaft collar, so the shaft rotates against the friction of the material. This requires a long enough shaft. Alternatively, you can use a wave washer or rubber o-ring to create a friction fit.
If you have a short shaft, a simple press-fit bushing can be used. The bushing should be made of a material like phosphor bronze, which provides smooth movement and never needs lubrication.
Finally, rotating the handle so that the slit is on the inside of any curve may help to reduce friction and make the clamp removal easier.
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Use a hacksaw to cut off the clamp
To remove a brake handle plastic clamp, you can use a hacksaw to cut it off. This method is particularly useful if your brake handle is stuck or if the clamp is fused with the brake line.
- Remove the grips from the handlebar using a 2.5mm allen wrench. If you have lock-ons, you can keep them on for now, but be aware that they might get scratched during the cutting process.
- Remove the brake levers, shifters, remote triggers, and any other components attached to the bars.
- Optional: Remove the bar from the stem. This step is not necessary, but it will make the cutting process easier.
- Measure and mark the bar where you want to make the cut. Remember that you can always cut off more material later, but you can't add it back once it's cut, so be cautious when deciding on the length.
- Prepare the saw guide by sliding one clamp onto the bar, positioning it inside the mark you made. Tighten it down with the 2.5mm allen.
- Take the second clamp and position it just outside the cut mark, ensuring there is enough room between the clamps for your saw blade (about 1.5-2mm). Tighten this clamp as well.
- Firmly hold the bar and begin cutting through the clamp. Continue cutting until the outer clamp falls off.
- Remove the clamps from the bar and the cut-off section using the 2.5mm allen.
- If you have a file, you can use it to smooth out any sharp edges. If not, be careful when handling the freshly cut bar and consider using bar end caps.
Using a hacksaw is a viable method for removing stuck or fused brake handle clamps. However, it is important to be cautious and follow the proper steps to ensure a clean and safe cut.
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Remove the bar tape
To remove the bar tape, you will first need to flip back both brake lever hoods. Some people prefer to cut the tape with a razor blade, but others unwrap it to avoid damaging the cables underneath.
If you want to avoid cutting the tape, you can use a heat gun to heat up the adhesive, making it easier to unwrap. Alternatively, you can use a solvent such as Goo Gone, WD40, acetone, or isopropyl alcohol to remove the adhesive. Be careful, though, as acetone can damage plastic.
Once the tape is removed, you can use a screwdriver or expansion pliers to slowly work on the remaining residue. You can also use isopropyl alcohol to clean off any remaining residue.
After removing the tape, you will need to inspect the cables and brake levers. Ensure that the cables are securely fastened to the front side of the handlebar using electrical tape. Check the alignment of your brake levers—the bottom of each lever should be in line with the bottom of the handlebar and inline with the side of the bars.
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Use a wrench to loosen the clamp
To loosen the clamp, you will need to use a wrench. Before you begin, ensure that you have the correct type of wrench for the clamp. For example, a socket wrench is used for T-bolt clamps, and a torque wrench is used for precise tightening. You may also need a screwdriver, so have one at hand.
Now, locate the screw or bolt on the clamp. You will need to turn this counterclockwise to loosen the band clamp. If the clamp is stuck, you can apply some penetrating oil to the screw threads to help ease the loosening process. Once you have loosened the clamp, you can slide it off the hose.
If you are struggling to loosen the clamp, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, check that you are using the correct tool for the type of clamp. A socket wrench or torque wrench can often achieve greater tension than a screwdriver. If you are using a wrench, you could try applying a thin layer of rubber from a bicycle tube around the threads to help you get a better grip. Alternatively, you could try using two nuts tightened together against the threaded rod.
If you are still unable to loosen the clamp, you may need to cut it. However, this should be a last resort, as it will destroy the threads.
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Bend the clamp back and forth
Bending the clamp back and forth is a technique that can be used to remove the brake lever from a curved handlebar. The first step is to rotate the lever, as the lever clamp is elliptical, and changing the lever position can help to reduce friction. It is also recommended to remove any bar tape and clean off any residue with isopropyl alcohol.
Once the lever has been rotated and any friction-causing residue has been removed, you can begin to bend the clamp. It is important to note that this method should only be used if you can determine the material's limit with your bare hands without snapping it. If you feel resistance and are unable to bend the clamp without applying significant force, stop and consider an alternative method to avoid damage.
To bend the clamp, use your hands to gently bend the clamp back and forth. This process may require some force, but it is important to work slowly and carefully to avoid breaking the clamp. Continue bending the clamp back and forth until it becomes loose enough to remove.
It is worth noting that this method may not work for all types of clamps, especially if they are particularly tight or if the plastic has hardened with age. In some cases, it may be necessary to cut the clamp using a hacksaw or another appropriate tool. Additionally, ensuring that you have sufficient wiggle room by disconnecting the line at both ends can also aid in the removal process.
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Frequently asked questions
First, pull the brake lever to find where the cable threads into a clamp within the lever mechanism. Depending on your bike model, you can either pull the cable out of the clamp or engage the lever several times to detach the cable.
If the clamp is too tight, it may have fused with the brake lines. Try cutting the clamp with a hacksaw or using a wrench to loosen the bolt.
You may have the wrong brake lever for your handlebars. Try using an adapter shim or purchasing the correct brake lever. Alternatively, you can place a 1mm thick piece of plastic between the stem and the bars.
Most bike grips are rubber or plastic and can be removed without an adhesive. Try using an air compressor to blast air under the grip while twisting and pulling.
