Scooterotica

I want to get the back brake working better on an SX200 (all but non existent) and was going to replace the shoes at the weekend. Last night I was told that they were replaced less than 500 miles ago.

Assuming they were replaced with the right shoes for the cam (!) I'm after advice on how to 'remove the high spots' and get them working better. Although this is reasonably basic servicing, I have never done it as have always either replaced the shoes or gone for a disc brake.

So whats the best tool to use to remove the high spots? and what part of the shoe do I need to address? Is there a way to check how much of the shoe is engaging the hub?

Thanks for any advice

Take off the brake drum and "paint" the braking surface with chalkboard chalk. Then put the drum back and turn it while pushing the brake arm with hand. When removing the brake again you should see the spots where there's contact and which should be sanded with sandpaper. Do this couple of times and the "gripping area" will get bigger. When youäre satisfied clean the shoes with brake cleaner.

Make also sure that the brake arm is installed in right splines.

also, do check that the cable is routed smoothly, and is not too long.
It can make a difference trimming the end of the outer by 10mm [allowing for engine movement etc of course] or so to eliminate any flexing when the pedal is pushed harder.

Good tip here is to try and use some old innocenti shoes even if slightly worn. The old asbestos is deadly but bloody good in brake linings.
If you have an old italian hub that is buggered but you know is at least round you can superglue some emery stip onto the lining. Put the hub on the bike and turn the hub over with the brake applied very slightly.
If the shoes are brand spanking you might not get the hub on put this works a treat with worn in shoes.
The cable advice is good but trim a very little at a time. Its very easy to cut too much off.

Top tips... will do all the above. Thanks