Disc Brakes--Maintenance

[Velobambina]

Anyone out there have disc brakes? My new 'cross bike has them and I was wondering what I be aware of in terms of when to change the brake pads, how to know when they are wearing out, etc? Thanks, in advance, for any advice.

[madisongrrl]

Disc Brakes on a cross bike? That's is awesome! (Though, it is illegal at UCI races). I have disc brakes on my mountain bike and they are great. Disc brakes are generally low maintenance, but you need to consider a few things: break pads will wear out, rotors will wear out, capilers might need adjusting, and lines will need bleeding once in a while (you have to buy a kit for this).

Here is a random website that I googled which gives a nice overview.

http://bicyclehabitat.com/page.cfm?PageID=362

Another important thing is DO NOT flip your bike upside down (I read this directly from my manual). Granted, if you brakes were done properly there should be absolutely no air in them. But, you never know and you could be moving air through the lines which could cause your brakes to not work. Then you would have to bleed the lines.

What kind of disc brakes do you have? You might want to check out the manufacturer's website to get more info.

[Velobambina]

Renee -- Thanks for the link and the info. My brakes are mechanical (Avid). I will check their website for more info. I'm looking forward to not having my rims ice up if (when, probably) it gets really cold outside.

[rocknrollgirl]

Hi There,
My DH does most of our mechanical work, but I will try to help out. Our brake
pads have needed changing after extended periods of riding in the mud and slop. The noise sounds something akin to...hmmm...metal grinding on metal, and loss of braking pwer.

I have helped in the changing of the pads, it seems pretty straight forward. DH says he got the info on their website.

He says keep an eye on the rear brake cable, it is not enclosed, so mud and gunk can build up inside. He says if you do not ride in mud you are fine.

Also when cleaning the brake rotor, use rubbing alcohol and a clean rag. Do not touch the rotor with you fingers. The oli is bad for the brakes.

Advice from my mechanic.....

Ruth

[chickwhorips]

i have disk breaks on my mtn bike and since i've gotten them they sqeek, rub or make other noises.

the rotor was slightly bent for some reason, and bf straightened it out. that took care of the rub, but they still make a sqeek. seems when dirt gets in it then it sqeeks. maybe they aren't ment to be used where i live. its really dusty here or maybe i just shouldn't have them. who knows.