Common Bicycle Brake Issues: Don’t Let Them Catch You Out!

Brake wear happens gradually, which makes it easy to overlook—until you suddenly realize your stopping power isn’t what it should be. By October, you might have unconsciously adjusted to poor braking, only for it to come back and bite you when spring riding kicks off in March. Before that first descent of the season, it’s worth checking for these common brake issues and getting them sorted by a professional.

1. Worn or Misaligned Brake Pads

Brake pads wear down over time, reducing their effectiveness. If they look thin, glazed, or unevenly worn, they need replacing. Misaligned pads can also cause poor braking, excessive rim wear, or even dangerous skidding.

2. Corroded or Frayed Cables

For bikes with cable-operated brakes, rusted or frayed cables can lead to sluggish braking response or even sudden failure. If your levers feel sticky or require more force than usual, it’s time for a service.

3. Damaged Brake Levers

Bent or stiff brake levers can be a sign of hidden damage from a crash or general wear. If your levers don’t spring back smoothly or feel loose, they need checking over.

4. Oil or Contamination on the Braking Surface

If your bike has disc brakes, oil contamination on the rotors or pads can render them very screechy and almost useless. Rim brakes can also suffer from road grime buildup, making braking unreliable. A professional can clean or replace the necessary parts to restore safe braking.

5. Hydraulic Brake Issues

For hydraulic brake users, spongy or weak braking often indicates dirt or air in the system or low fluid levels. A routine bleed and check-up will ensure you have strong, reliable stopping power.

Book a Brake Check Before Spring!

If your bike hasn’t had a brake check in a while, now’s the time. Whether it’s pads, cables, or hydraulics, keeping your brakes in top condition means safer, more enjoyable rides—without nasty surprises when you need to stop in a hurry. All our service packages include brake cable fitting and setup as standard.

Need a professional brake check? Book in today and get your bike spring-ready!