Bicycle riders know that a crucial part of cycling safety is having a properly maintained bike. One of the most common issues cyclists face is a brake rub, when the wheel is out of true or the brakes are misaligned.
Such a problem can cause the wheel to slow down, potentially leading to a jerking sensation when braking. Unfortunately, a brake rub can also cause further damage to the wheel, brakes, and other components of the bike.
In this article, we’ll discuss what a brake rub is, what causes it, and how to fix it.
Is a Little Brake Rub OK?
A brake rub can be a sign of an issue that needs to be addressed. While it may not be an immediate safety concern, it’s important to have it checked out as soon as possible.
A brake rub is usually caused by a wheel that is out of true or misaligned brakes. When the wheel is out of true, it can cause the wheel to rub against the brake caliper. This can cause the wheel to slow down and cause a jerking sensation when braking.
It’s important to address a brake rub as soon as possible because it can cause further damage to the wheel, brakes, and other components of the bike. It can also cause uneven wear on the tires due to the wheel rubbing against the brake caliper.
This can cause the tires to wear out much faster than usual and can cause the bike to become unsafe to ride.
In most cases, a brake rub is not an immediate safety concern. However, it is important to have it checked out and fixed as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage or injury.
If you notice any signs of a brake rub, take your bike to a local bike shop and have them take a look. They can help diagnose the issue and fix it so that you can get back to enjoying your ride.
FAQs
Is it normal for new brakes to rub?
It is important to ensure that brakes are installed properly, as any rubbing or grinding of the brakes can cause damage to the brake system and reduce its ability to stop the vehicle.
If the brakes are rubbing when they are new, it is likely due to a misalignment of the brake components or an incorrect installation. It is recommended to have a professional inspect the brakes to determine the cause of the problem and make any necessary adjustments.
If the brakes are not installed properly, the brakes may not be able to provide adequate stopping power, which could lead to a dangerous situation.
How much play should brake pads have?
The amount of play that brake pads should have is an important aspect of proper brake maintenance. Proper brake pad play, or clearance, ensures optimal brake performance and safety.
It is important to maintain the proper amount of play on brake pads to ensure that the brakes are operating as intended. The correct amount of play on brake pads is between 0.006” and 0.008” of play.
This amount of play is necessary to ensure that the brakes are able to operate properly and efficiently.
Too much play can cause the brakes to become less effective and cause premature wear, while too little play can cause the brakes to be too sensitive and cause them to overheat. It is important to check the brake pads regularly to ensure that the proper amount of play is maintained.
What to do if your brakes are rubbing?
If your brakes are rubbing, the first step is to check for debris in the brake calipers. Debris can build up in the calipers and cause them to stick, which can cause the brakes to rub.
Clean out the calipers to remove any debris and then adjust the brake pads. Make sure the brake pads are properly aligned and that they are not too tight or too loose. If these steps don’t fix the issue, it may be time to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
They can inspect the brakes and determine if there is a more serious issue causing the rubbing. They may need to replace the brake pads, calipers, or rotors if any of these parts are worn or damaged.
It is important to have a qualified mechanic inspect your brakes if you are experiencing any rubbing or other braking issues.
In Short
In conclusion, a brake rub is a common issue for cyclists and can be caused by a wheel that is out of true or misaligned brakes. It can cause the wheel to slow down, potentially leading to a jerking sensation when braking.
In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to keep the wheel and brakes properly maintained and inspected.
If a brake rub does occur, it is important to take the necessary steps to correct it in order to prevent further damage to the wheel, brakes, and other components of the bike.
