Is the bolt that holds the front brakes on a bicycle supposed to be bent?

Question

I am putting together a supposedly new bike that I bought. The front brakes are attached to bolt which attaches to the fork of the bike - but the bolt is bent in what seems like a really awkward direction to me.

It's impossible to fit it into the hole so that it sticks out straight forward. I can fit the wheel in, but the brakes clamp on kind of sideways, which I am pretty sure is not supposed to happen.

The thing is that I am not sure whether the bolt was bent or if it was designed that way. If it's by design I have no idea why... but I don't think it looks bent by stress or anything. What can I do? If I have to unbend it, what tool to use?

Answer 1

it dosen't matter as long as the brakes are in the right place

Answer 2

No. Most likely it has been bent during shipping.

You should be able to straighten it out by gripping one part in a vice and twisting other with a largish spanner (or pliers if you must). Stick some tape over the threads and gripping points to lessen marks and damage.

Answer 3

No.  Get a replacement where you bought the bike.   Straightening, and thus fatiguing, the bolt is a bad idea in such a critical place.   If the bolt breaks, the assembly goes into the front wheel, sending you over the handlebars.

Answer 4

no, it should be straight. just call the company or go to a bike shop to find a new bolt. Unbending could stress the bolt and make it break.