Your Bike’s Front Brake Isn’t Working? Here’s What to Do

Do you find yourself frustrated when your bike’s front brake doesn’t work properly You’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of issues. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. In this troubleshooting guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to diagnose and fix the problem so that you can get back to riding your bike safely and smoothly.

Most Common Reasons: Bike Front Brake Not Working

Most Common Reasons: Bike Front Brake Not Working

1. Brake Pads Worn Out

The most common reason for a bike front brake not working is that the brake pads are worn out. When the brake pads are worn out, they no longer have enough material to grip the brake rotor and slow the bike down. This can be a dangerous situation, as it can lead to a loss of control of the bike.

2. Brake Rotor Damaged

Another common reason for a bike front brake not working is that the brake rotor is damaged. This can happen if the rotor is bent or if there are grooves or scratches in the surface of the rotor. When the brake rotor is damaged, it cannot grip the brake pads properly, which will prevent the bike from slowing down.

3. Brake Caliper Misaligned

If the brake caliper is misaligned, it will not be able to apply pressure to the brake pads correctly. This can cause the bike to pull to one side when you apply the brakes, or it may not slow down at all.

4. Brake Fluid Low

If the brake fluid level is low, it will not be able to create enough pressure to apply the brakes. This can cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not work at all.

5. Brake Lever Faulty

If the brake lever is faulty, it may not be able to apply enough pressure to the brake fluid reservoir. This can cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not work at all.

How to Troubleshoot: Bike Front Brake Not Working

Symptoms

The front brake lever feels spongy or does not return to its original position after being applied.
The front brake pads are not making contact with the brake rotor.
The front brake rotor is warped or damaged.
The front brake cable is frayed or broken.
The front brake caliper is not properly adjusted.
The front brake master cylinder is leaking.

Troubleshooting

1. Check the brake fluid level:
The brake fluid reservoir should be at least half full. If the brake fluid level is low, add more brake fluid to the reservoir.

2. Inspect the brake pads:
The brake pads should be at least 1/8-inch thick. If the brake pads are worn down to the metal backing, they need to be replaced.3. Inspect the brake rotor:
The brake rotor should be smooth and free of any cracks or damage. If the brake rotor is warped or damaged, it needs to be replaced.

4. Inspect the brake cable:
The brake cable should be free of any fraying or damage. If the brake cable is damaged, it needs to be replaced.

5. Adjust the front brake caliper:
The front brake caliper should be properly adjusted so that the brake pads are making contact with the brake rotor.

6. Inspect the front brake master cylinder:
The front brake master cylinder should be free of any leaks. If the front brake master cylinder is leaking, it needs to be repaired or replaced.

How to Fix: Bike Front Brake Not Working

1. Add brake fluid to the reservoir:
If the brake fluid level is low, add more brake fluid to the reservoir.

2. Replace the brake pads:
If the brake pads are worn down to the metal backing, they need to be replaced.3. Replace the brake rotor:
If the brake rotor is warped or damaged, it needs to be replaced.

4. Replace the brake cable:
If the brake cable is damaged, it needs to be replaced.

5. Adjust the front brake caliper:
The front brake caliper should be properly adjusted so that the brake pads are making contact with the brake rotor.

6. Repair or replace the front brake master cylinder:
If the front brake master cylinder is leaking, it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Preventative Maintenance

To help prevent your bike front brake from not working, you should perform the following preventative maintenance:

Check the brake fluid level regularly and add more brake fluid as needed.
Inspect the brake pads regularly and replace them as needed.
Inspect the brake rotor regularly and replace it as needed.
Inspect the brake cable regularly and replace it as needed.
Adjust the front brake caliper regularly so that the brake pads are making contact with the brake rotor.
Repair or replace the front brake master cylinder as needed.

By following these tips, you can help keep your bike front brake working properly and avoid having to troubleshoot or fix it.

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About The Author

I'm Ryan, an avid road biker who also enjoys track racing, time trials, as well as riding off-road on a mountain bike or gravel bike. I believe cycling is a good way to improve the quality of life. Regardless of your skill level or interests, we make it accessible and enjoyable.

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