| Problem |
Probable Cause |
Check |
Fix |
| Draging Brakes |
Calipers Not Centered |
Space between pad and rim should be equal on both sides |
Center calipers |
| Wheel not true |
Spin wheel & check for wooble |
True or replace wheel |
| Brakes adjusted to tight |
Clearence between rim & pad |
Shorten cable housing |
| Noisey Brakes |
Improperly aligned pads |
Front of padss should be touching rim first |
Toe in pad(s) |
| Old, hard or glazed pads |
Pads should not be rock hard |
Replace |
| Dirty rim contact area |
Visual check of rim |
Clean rim & replace pads |
| Brake fade |
Worn pads |
Check 'em out |
Replace 'em |
| Oil/grease on rim |
Check it out |
Clean rim/pads with solvent |
| Brake lever goes to bar |
Pads worn out |
Check 'em out |
Replace 'em |
| Broken or pulled out brake cable |
Check cables and clamps |
Adjust length or replace |
| Brakes bind |
Levers, cables or
calipers pivots rusted
or bound up |
Check levers for binding, check cable housings for damage |
Lubricate, repair or replace |
| Brake chatter |
Dented or warped rim |
Check rim |
Replace |
| Loose or broken brake pivots |
Inspect |
Go to bike shop |
