How to Stop Bike Brakes From Skidding

Common bicycle brakes use a set of rubber pads to slow the bicycle's wheel. When brakes are activated, each pad moves in toward the wheel, gripping it along its braking surface. "Skidding" of the brake is the result of insufficient grip of the pad against the wheel. Both the pads and braking surface of the wheel will likely be dirty. The pad surface may also contain minute bits of debris from the road. Bits of debris, such as sand and glass, are not only detrimental to a pad's ability to grip but can also scratch the side of the rim.

Things You'll Need

  • Rag
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Awl
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the method for opening the particular brake, and open the brake. Road bike brakes are usually fitted with a lever on end of the brake. Turning the lever opens and closes the brake. For mountain bikes, squeeze the sides of the brake, and separate the cable from the latch at the top of the brake.

    • 2

      Examine the surface of the each brake pad. Each side of the brake has one pad. The surface should be clean and free of bits of debris. Use an awl, or other pointed instrument, to dislodge any debris from the pad surface.

    • 3

      Dampen a rag with rubbing alcohol. Wipe along the braking surface of the wheel. The braking surface of the wheel is the side of the rim onto which the pads grip. Wipe both sides of the wheel. Remove all dirt and grime from the surface.

    • 4

      Dampen an unused portion of the rag, once again with rubbing alcohol. Wipe down the surface of each pad, cleaning the pad of grime.

    • 5

      Close the brake. For road bikes, turn the lever on the side of the brake to its original position. For mountain bikes, squeeze the sides of the brake, and fit the cable inside the latch at the top of the brake.