If you are having trouble with your brakes, specifically the type of trouble that involves your brake pads not hitting the rim correctly, then this might help. First loosen whatever bolts hold your pads in place. Don't take them off, just loosen them. Then, take a good burly zip tie and position it so that it holds the brakes together(i.e. in the stopping position) and crank that sucker down hard. Theoretically, your pads will both be making the maximum amount of contact with the rim. Now, while holding the pads in place, because the zip tie will always need some assistance when Mr. Wrench enters the fray, tighten down all your bolts. If you did it right, you should at least see a marginal improvement, and if you're like some people I know, any improvement in braking means less injuries and more ride time. See, I have just improved your life drastically.