Brakes are a very important part of a bicycle, the correct use of which is important to know. They often break during sudden braking, since there is little information about their maintenance among cyclists. Of all the disc, drum and rim brakes, the latter are among the most popular when choosing braking devices. They are easy to use and have greater power compared to disc brakes. However, drum and disc brakes require proper maintenance.
If you have hydraulic brakes, it is recommended to bleed them after a certain period of time. If you feel that the brakes are becoming too "soft" while riding a bicycle, it is necessary to bleed the fluid, as air has entered the system. In the process, especially for those who have never had such brakes, many mistakes can be made. The most common problems are accidentally pouring brake fluid onto the pads, using the wrong or expired fluid, or simply overfilling the fluid. Mistakes related to brake fluid maintenance can be avoided by learning how to bleed air correctly. This can be done by consulting with people whose bikes have disc brakes, or by taking your bike to a service center and observing the work of professionals.
Before riding your bike, always check not only the operation of the brakes, but also whether the pads are worn - they should be replaced if their width has decreased by 1 mm. When cleaning the brakes, try to avoid getting brake fluid or degreaser on the pads, as this can damage the strength of the pads and cause them to slip around the wheel when braking.
When checking the pads, also look at the hoses of hydraulic disc brakes. If they are worn, the brake fluid will no longer be distributed correctly and you will lose some of the braking power. If your bike has mechanical brakes, check the cables - their wear or incorrect adjustment will also reduce the response of the brakes to rider pressure. After prolonged use, the mechanical brake disc may bend, so be sure to check it before riding.
When handling and checking hydraulic disc brakes, never touch the disc. Improper lubrication with your fingers can damage the disc surface, accelerate brake wear, and reduce braking power.
Another mistake that cyclists make due to insufficient information on brake maintenance is that frequent braking while riding can wear out the pads and stretch the cables. Doing this constantly will lead to a decrease in brake efficiency, so it is necessary not only to properly maintain the brakes, but also to learn how to maneuver well.
If you are not sure how to properly maintain the disc brakes on your bicycle, be sure to consult a specialist.
