[phoeneous]

When installing new brake pads should the whole pad be flush with the rim (when the lever is squeezed) or should one of the tips (front or back) of the pad touch the rim first?

 

[AndrewTO]

Usually you'll want the tips (towards the front of the bike) to touch first. Sometimes you can get away with mounting them flush, but don't count on it. You can have all kinds of problems if you try, so save yourself the hassle and toe the pads.

I use a thin piece of cardboard when setting up as it usually gives the desired effect. Try things with different thicknesses (feeler gauges are great for this, if you have them) to see what works best for your bike. Just keep in mind that there's a bunch of variables that determine how much toe you really need to get things right.

 

[Bikinfoolferlife]

I've had some good luck with flush pads, but like Andrew says...

 

[AndrewTO]

I take it back. I think I should have given you different advice. Sorry!

Try running them flush first. IF you have vibration/squealing problems then use toe as your first solution to correct.

I did a pad swap on my bike today. Out with the old Shimano W&D pads (why is it even legal to sell these? ) and put on a pair of Kool Stop (grey compound) pads - flush mounted. I tried a panic stop and endo'd the bike for about 20'. So after I cleaned my underwear..... The funny thing is that my old Avid cantis (horrible little things) always gave me problems flush mounted. I had to toe them like a mad man to get it to stop.

Flush first - toe if needed. Apologies on the confusion. I just don't like to give people poor advice.