Bicycle Rear Brake Not Working: A Troubleshooting Guide
There’s nothing more frustrating than being out on a bike ride and having your rear brake fail. Not only is it dangerous, but it can also be a major inconvenience. If your rear brake isn’t working, you’ll have to slow down and stop using your front brake only, which can be difficult and can lead to accidents.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a rear brake that’s not working. I’ll cover everything from simple fixes like adjusting the brake pads to more complex repairs like replacing the brake caliper. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to get your rear brake working again so you can safely enjoy your next bike ride.
Most Common Reasons: Bike Rear Brake Not Working
Most Common Reasons: Bike Rear Brake Not Working
1. Brake Pads Worn Out
The most common reason for a rear brake not working is that the brake pads are worn out. When the brake pads are worn out, they no longer make contact with the brake rotor 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 brake and see if the brakes feel spongy or if they don’t slow the bike down as much as they used to. If the brake pads are worn out, you will need to replace them.
2. Brake Rotor Damaged
Another common reason for a rear brake not working is that the brake rotor is damaged. When the brake rotor is damaged, it can cause the brake pads to not make contact with the rotor properly. This can also cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not slow the bike down as much as they used to. To check if the brake rotor is damaged, you can look at it and see if there are any cracks or gouges in it. You can also try to brake and see if the brakes feel spongy or if they don’t slow the bike down as much as they used to. If the brake rotor is damaged, you will need to have it replaced.
3. Brake Caliper Misaligned
A third common reason for a rear brake not working is that the brake caliper is misaligned. When the brake caliper is misaligned, it can cause the brake pads to not make contact with the brake rotor properly. This can also cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not slow the bike down as much as they used to. To check if the brake caliper is misaligned, you can look at it and see if it is positioned correctly in relation to the brake rotor. You can also try to brake and see if the brakes feel spongy or if they don’t slow the bike down as much as they used to. If the brake caliper is misaligned, you will need to have it adjusted.
4. Brake Fluid Low
A fourth common reason for a rear brake not working is that the brake fluid is low. When the brake fluid is low, it can cause the brakes to not work properly. This can also cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not slow the bike down as much as they used to. To check if the brake fluid is low, you can look at the brake reservoir and see if the fluid level is below the minimum level. You can also try to brake and see if the brakes feel spongy or if they don’t slow the bike down as much as they used to. If the brake fluid is low, you will need to add more brake fluid.
5. Brake Lever Stuck
A fifth common reason for a rear brake not working is that the brake lever is stuck. When the brake lever is stuck, it can prevent the brake pads from engaging with the brake rotor. This can also cause the brakes to feel spongy or to not slow the bike down as much as they used to. To check if the brake lever is stuck, you can try to move it and see if it is free to move. You can also try to brake and see if the brakes work. If the brake lever is stuck, you will need to have it repaired or replaced.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix: Bike Rear Brake Not Working
Troubleshooting the Issue
When you encounter the problem of your bike’s rear brake not working
it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. However
with a systematic approach
you can diagnose and fix the issue effectively. Here’s how to troubleshoot the problem:
- Check the Brake Lever: Start by inspecting the brake lever to ensure it is functioning properly. Look for any signs of damage or wear that may be affecting its performance.
- Examine the Brake Cable: Next
examine the brake cable for any fraying
kinks
or damage. A damaged brake cable can lead to reduced braking power or complete brake failure. - Inspect the Brake Caliper: Inspect the brake caliper for any misalignment
dirt
or debris that may be interfering with its operation. Clean the caliper thoroughly to remove any obstructions. - Check the Brake Pads: Ensure that the brake pads are not excessively worn or contaminated with oil or debris. Worn or contaminated brake pads can significantly reduce braking efficiency.
- Assess the Brake Housing: Inspect the brake housing for any cracks
bends
or damage that may be impeding the smooth movement of the brake cable. Replace the housing if necessary.
Fixing the Issue
Once you have identified the root cause of the problem
it’s time to take action and fix the rear brake issue. Here’s how to address the problem effectively:
- Adjust the Brake Lever Tension: If the brake lever feels loose or unresponsive
adjust the tension to ensure proper engagement when braking. This can often resolve minor issues with brake responsiveness. - Replace the Brake Cable: If the brake cable is damaged or worn
replace it with a new one to restore optimal braking performance. Ensure that the new cable is properly routed and secured. - Align the Brake Caliper: If the brake caliper is misaligned
adjust it to ensure that it aligns perfectly with the brake rotor. This will optimize braking efficiency and reduce the risk of brake drag. - Install New Brake Pads: Worn or contaminated brake pads should be replaced with new ones to ensure reliable braking performance. Properly bed in the new brake pads to maximize their effectiveness.
- Replace the Brake Housing: If the brake housing is damaged
replace it with a new one to ensure smooth and unobstructed movement of the brake cable. Properly route and secure the new housing.
By following these troubleshooting and fixing steps
you can effectively address the issue of your bike’s rear brake not working and ensure safe and reliable braking performance for your rides.
You May Like to Read: Bike Rear Disc Brake Not Working
