The brakes on my 10 speed bicycle need to be adjusted (no longer stopping). How do I adjust the brakes?

Answer 1

First be sure the rubber pads are good.
Usually at the brake you will see the cable and a screw that hold it. Loosen the screw and with a pair of pliers pull the cable as you squeeze the pads closer to the wheel/rotor. Then tighten the screw and let go.
Maybe this link will help;
http://bicyclesportshop.com/page.cfm?PageID=897

Answer 2

First, and easiest, there is an adjustment barrel where the brake cable enters the brake lever housing. Squeeze the brake pads to the wheel with your hand, then tighten (clockwise) the barrel adjuster (it is threaded like a nut).\

Second, if the brakes are too worn for #1, You will need to tighten the slack in the cable. Typically, you will find where the brake cable attaches to the pad assembly near the wheel. Loosen the nut that secures the cable. Squeeze the pads to the wheel, tighten the slack in the brake cable, then secure the locking nut on the cable. Note: this last maneuver can be a bit tricky, and is why the "third hand" tool is so popular.

If you use Option #2 remember to leave plenty of room for fine adjustments with the barrel adjuster in #1.

Also, if the brake pads themselves are too worn, you should replace them first. Adjusting the proper "toe-in" can be abit tricky as well. Generally, the front edge of the brake pad should come into contact with the wheel rim first.

If you have to replace the pads, You may want to have a shop do it. The charge is pretty small, and brake squeal from improperly adjusted pads is very annoying.

Good luck.

Answer 3

No one can answer that properly without knowing what type of brakes they are. This is dangerous, take it to a bike shop and watch them adjust it. It is usually simple and once you've seen it you can do it yourself in the future if you are mechanically inclined at all. Be sure to check the wear on your brake pads.