Anybody else *always* get things backwards?

[DebW]

In answer to your question Deb, I do believe there is - they're the opposite on countries that drive on the left for signalling purposes:
http://www.ctc.org.uk/DesktopDefault.aspx?TabID=3804

I was chuckling at this thread a while back, until I got my bike back from the workshop today, after having had the cassette replaced.
Apparently I'd managed to fit my rear brake blocks, not only back-to-front, but also upside down! I simply followed the instructions on the packet - how did that happen?!
Luckily my mechanic is a lovable guy and not at all into putting anyone down, it just tickled him - and he was more worried about my reduced braking power than reducing my ego.
Kinda embarrassing, all the same!

Thanks, Snappy. It's always good to know that the world is a rational place.

There was a time when putting your brake blocks on backwards meant that, when you squeezed the brakes, the pads came flying out. The metal pad-holder on Weinneman brakes was open on one end to make it easier to replace the pads (you could buy just the rubber pads or the brake block with pad and holder). It was more obvious which end went forwards, but dangerous if you got it wrong. Glad you suffered from nothing worse than embarassment, Snappy. Not sure I would necessarily know which end of a brake pad goes forward anymore (and it may not matter for some).

[SnappyPix]

There was a time when putting your brake blocks on backwards meant that, when you squeezed the brakes, the pads came flying out. The metal pad-holder on Weinneman brakes was open on one end to make it easier to replace the pads (you could buy just the rubber pads or the brake block with pad and holder). It was more obvious which end went forwards, but dangerous if you got it wrong. Glad you suffered from nothing worse than embarassment, Snappy. Not sure I would necessarily know which end of a brake pad goes forward anymore (and it may not matter for some).

Erm, funny you should say that, as mine were exactly that type (not same make though) and the mechanic mentioned something about the possibility of them having shot out and me trying to brake without any pads ...

As I've started concentrating on hill-training, it also means I've been doing some pretty steep descents ... OMG!!!
I've got a lycra-clad guardian angel up there somewhere!

At least now I know I'm not to be trusted with even the simpliest of things!