Quote Originally Posted by DebW
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!