Quote Originally Posted by greenbeanvw View Post
I just checked the brakes and they seem to be okay (albeit very dirty from this morning's ride).
Even if your brakes aren't rubbing when you inspect them, I've found normal flexing in the wheels and frame (or fork) can still make them drag, especially when I'm pedalling my hardest!

Many new bikes are delivered with the brake pads set close to the rim, often just 1 or 2 mm between the rim and each brake pad; if that's the case with your new bike, consider loosening the brake cables a little to open up the gap. I like about a 3 to 4mm gap on each side of the rim.

(This also makes braking easier for me, since it brings the brake lever closer into my hand when I squeeze.)