Do you find yourself constantly having to pump the brakes on your bike to slow down Is your back brake not working properly, causing you to skid or even crash If so, you’re not alone. Back brake problems are a common occurrence, but they can be easily fixed.
In this troubleshooting guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to diagnose and repair a back brake that’s not working properly. I’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future problems. So whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a new rider, read on for all the information you need to know about fixing a back brake on your bike.
Most Common Reasons: Back Brake On Bike Not Working
Most Common Reasons: Back Brake On Bike Not Working
Brake pads are worn out
This is the most common cause of a back brake not working. When the brake pads are worn out, they no longer make contact with the rim and cannot slow the bike down.
To check if the brake pads are worn out, you can look at them and see if they are thin or if the metal backing is showing. You can also try to squeeze the brake lever and see if the pads move closer to the rim.
If the brake pads are worn out, you will need to replace them.
Brake cable is stretched or frayed
If the brake cable is stretched or frayed, it will not be able to apply enough force to the brake pads to slow the bike down.
To check if the brake cable is stretched or frayed, you can look at it and see if it is kinked or frayed. You can also try to pull on it and see if it stretches.
If the brake cable is stretched or frayed, you will need to replace it.
Brake lever is not adjusted properly
If the brake lever is not adjusted properly, it may not be able to apply enough force to the brake pads to slow the bike down.
To check if the brake lever is adjusted properly, you can look at it and see if it is aligned with the brake pads. You can also try to squeeze the brake lever and see if it moves the brake pads closer to the rim.
If the brake lever is not adjusted properly, you will need to adjust it.
Brake fluid is low
If the brake fluid is low, it will not be able to apply enough pressure to the brake pads to slow the bike down.
To check if the brake fluid is low, you can look at the brake reservoir and see if it is below the minimum level. You can also try to pump the brake lever and see if it feels spongy.
If the brake fluid is low, you will need to add more fluid.
Brakes are contaminated
If the brakes are contaminated with dirt or oil, they will not be able to work properly.
To check if the brakes are contaminated, you can look at them and see if they are dirty. You can also try to rub your finger on the brake pads and see if it comes away dirty.
If the brakes are contaminated, you will need to clean them.
How to Troubleshoot: Back Brake on Bike Not Working
Symptoms
There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your back brake is not working properly. These include:
The brake lever feels spongy or does not return to its original position after being applied.
The brake pads do not make contact with the rim when you apply the brake lever.
The bike slows down slowly when you apply the brake lever.
The bike skids when you apply the brake lever.
Causes
There are a number of different things that can cause your back brake to stop working properly. These include:
Dirty or worn brake pads:
If the brake pads are dirty or worn, they will not be able to make proper contact with the rim and will not be able to slow the bike down effectively.
Incorrectly adjusted brake cable:
If the brake cable is not adjusted properly, it can cause the brake pads to drag on the rim, which will wear them down quickly and make them ineffective.
Corroded or damaged brake cable:
If the brake cable is corroded or damaged, it will not be able to transmit the force from the brake lever to the brake pads, which will prevent the brakes from working properly.
Brake fluid leak:
If there is a leak in the brake fluid reservoir, it can cause the brake pads to become spongy and ineffective.
Faulty brake caliper:
If the brake caliper is faulty, it will not be able to apply the brake pads to the rim properly, which will prevent the brakes from working properly.
How to Fix It
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to troubleshoot the problem and fix it as soon as possible. Here are a few steps to help you troubleshoot and fix your back brake:
1. Check the brake pads:
First, check the brake pads to see if they are dirty or worn. If they are dirty, you can clean them with a clean cloth. If they are worn, you will need to replace them.
2. Adjust the brake cable:
Next, check the brake cable to make sure it is adjusted properly. If the cable is too tight, it will cause the brake pads to drag on the rim. If the cable is too loose, it will not be able to apply enough pressure to the brake pads.3. Inspect the brake cable:
Check the brake cable for any signs of corrosion or damage. If the cable is corroded or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check the brake fluid reservoir:
Check the brake fluid reservoir to make sure there is no leak. If there is a leak, you will need to replace the brake fluid.
5. Inspect the brake caliper:
Inspect the brake caliper to make sure it is not faulty. If the caliper is faulty, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
If you are unable to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself, you can take your bike to a bike shop for professional assistance.
How to Fix: Back Brake on Bike Not Working
If you have determined that your back brake is not working properly, you will need to fix it in order to safely ride your bike. Here are the steps on how to fix a back brake that is not working:
1. Remove the wheel:
The first step is to remove the wheel so that you can access the brake caliper. To do this, loosen the axle nuts on either side of the wheel and then pull the wheel straight out.
2. Inspect the brake pads:
Once the wheel is removed, you can inspect the brake pads to see if they are dirty or worn. If they are dirty, you can clean them with a clean cloth. If they are worn, you will need to replace them.3. Adjust the brake cable:
Next, you will need to adjust the brake cable. To do this, loosen the cable adjuster on the brake caliper and then pull the cable until the brake pads are just touching the rim. Tighten the cable adjuster until the brake pads are snug against the rim.
4. Inspect the brake cable:
Check the brake cable for any signs of corrosion or damage. If the cable is corroded or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Check the brake fluid reservoir:
Check the brake fluid reservoir to make sure there is no leak. If there is a leak, you will need to replace the brake fluid.
6. Inspect the brake caliper:
Inspect the brake caliper to make sure it is not faulty. If the caliper is faulty, it will need to be
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