Check the brake pads for wear and replace them if needed
Inspect the brake cable or hydraulic line for damage
Loosen the brake cable anchor bolt if adjusting cable brakes
Center the brake caliper over the wheel rim or rotor
Tighten the caliper mounting bolts
Adjust pad position so it contacts the rim or rotor evenly
Set pad angle so the front edge touches slightly before the rear edge
Pull the brake lever and tighten the cable anchor bolt
Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune brake lever tension
Turn the barrel adjuster out to tighten the brake feel
Turn the barrel adjuster in to loosen the brake feel
Adjust the brake cable tension until the lever feels firm
Check that the wheel spins freely without pad rubbing
If the brakes are too close, back off the pad or caliper position
If the brakes are too loose, increase cable tension
For disc brakes, center the caliper over the rotor and tighten bolts
For hydraulic brakes, check fluid condition and bleed if necessary
Test the brakes repeatedly before riding
Recheck all bolts and adjustments after a short ride