Guide
Companion-operated cycle brakes: what to check
A companion-operated brake allows another person to operate braking in a system designed for that purpose. Before choosing equipment, describe who will ride, who will accompany them and which part of braking needs assistance. Companion brake control, steering and support while riding are different tasks.
What do you want to do together?
Start with a specific situation: a family wants to cycle together, a companion needs to help operate the brakes, or a rider needs an alternative to the existing lever. This is more useful than choosing a product from age, injury or diagnosis alone. Describe which actions work and where assistance is needed.
- Will the rider operate the brakes, will the companion operate them, or are both options needed?
- Is the question about grip strength, lever reach, control position or help from another person?
- Will the companion walk alongside or use another arrangement? Describe the intended use before assessing it against the product’s limits.
- Which cycle and brakes are already in use?
Separate reach, grip and companion control
If the fingers cannot reach a lever, the question may concern position or adjustment. If a lever is difficult to operate, the brake’s condition and method of control should be assessed. If another person needs to operate the brake, the question concerns a system with companion control. Addressing one of these needs does not automatically address the others.
Read about small hands and brake lever reach
Which SmartBrake version is relevant?
The SmartBrake family offers different control arrangements. Do not assume that all variants, controllers and older systems have the same functions. If you already have SmartBrake, provide its model and serial number. A specific proposal needs to identify the rider’s and companion’s controls, the required components and the applicable instructions.
Explore SmartBrake and its product variants
Find the manual for your SmartBrake system
An example of the assessment process
A companion asks: “We have an adapted cycle and want to help with braking.” Before selecting a setup, the supplier needs the model name, photographs of the brakes and an explanation of how rider and companion intend to use the cycle together. The supplier can then assess the combination and what needs to be trialled. This example describes a process, not a compatibility guarantee.
See cycle types, brand examples and an accessory checklist
Questions before installation and a trial
- Who assesses the combination of cycle, brakes and controllers?
- Who installs, checks and documents the setup?
- Which manual applies to this model and software version?
- What usage limits, checks before use and fault procedures apply?
- How will rider and companion receive instruction, and who can answer questions?
Arrange a trial and instruction for the completed setup. This guide does not replace product instructions or an assessment of where and how the cycle can be used. A companion control alone does not establish that riding without other support is appropriate.
Take the next step with information about the cycle
Send the make, model and a brief description of the assistance you are looking for. A first technical enquiry does not require detailed health information. Where the need is part of a wider adaptation, a professional or cycle supplier can help with assessment and a trial.
Contact SmartGroup about brake controls