Cleaning Brake levers

[stevetailor125]

I have metal vbrake brake levers, any suggestions for cleaning the levers, everytime I ride I end up with filthy black fingers

 

[HLaB]

I use baby wipes on all parts of all my bikes, including the brake levers

 

[vernon]

I have metal vbrake brake levers, any suggestions for cleaning the levers, everytime I ride I end up with filthy black fingers

Is the black caused by the alloy from the levers or dirt on the levers?

In both cases wearing full finger gloves will solve the problem.

Coming back to the cause of the blackness...some alloys will leave dark marks on your digits as they polish the surface of the lever removing tiny aluminium particles in the process. It's these particles that cause the blackness.

 

[Tasker]

A problem many of us grapple with. I wonder, could we perhaps have a sticky thread concerning beauty tips for chaps on bikes generally?

I mean. What about those ugly crow's feet one sees all too often on the chap in fronts' ankles? Should one mention it at the club teastop? If so how to do so without giving offence? What about those embarrassing VPL lines under a chap's cycling shorts? Surely an invitation to any passing gang of girls in a car.....

No. You're right I honestly just don't get it.

 

[gavintc]

What about those embarrassing VPL lines under a chap's cycling shorts?

VPL ? Has no one told you that cycle shorts are worn like swim shorts - nothing underneath.

 

[Globalti]

The black staining is caused by acid in your sweat attacking the alloy.

Dismantle the brakes, give the levers a really good polish then clean thoroughly with detergent and hot water, dry and then hang them up and spray with 2 or 3 coats of clear lacquer. Allow to dry overnight in a warm place then refit.