We talk a lot about how bikes make you go fast, but reliable brakes are just as important. Proper bicycle brake maintenance ensures consistent stopping power, better control, and safer rides in all conditions.
Whether you ride road, gravel, or mountain bikes, keeping your bike brakes in good working order doesn’t have to be complicated. Below are simple, mechanic-approved tips to help you maintain your brakes and recognize when it’s time for professional service.
Keep Your Braking Surface Clean
Whenever you are working on your bike, or even just washing or moving it, avoid touching braking surfaces like pads and rotors. Even clean hands carry natural oils that can compromise braking performance.
When washing your bike, most bike specific cleaners are safe to spray directly onto components, but avoid using brushes on rotors or pads, as they may be contaminated. A gentle rinse is usually enough.
If you need to clean your rotors, use a clean, lint free towel and isopropyl or brake cleaner for best results.
How to Inspect Bike Brake Pads
Regular bicycle brake pad inspection helps prevent poor braking performance and damage to rotors. Brake pads should be checked regularly. How quickly they wear depends on several factors, including terrain and riding conditions. Wet, muddy rides will wear pads significantly faster than dry, flat road riding.
As a general rule, when there is 1 to 1.5 mm of pad material left, it is time to replace them. A quick visual check can often be done from the top of the caliper, which is usually sufficient for a routine inspection. For a more accurate assessment, we recommend removing the wheel and taking the pads out of the caliper. Pad wear isn’t always even, so be sure to check the thinnest section of the pad when inspecting.
Reminder: Whenever the wheel is off, avoid pressing the brake lever. Doing so can push the pads or pistons out of position and make reinstallation a bit of a headache.
Replacing Bike Brake Pads
As pads wear down, brake pistons extend outward to maintain consistent braking feel. When it is time to install new pads, there is less room available, so the pistons need to be pushed back into the caliper.
Be careful when doing this. Use a plastic tire lever or keep the old pads in place to push against. Avoid metal tools, as some pistons, especially ceramic ones, can scratch or crack easily.
As you push the pistons back, pressure can build in the hydraulic system. To prevent damage to seals or internal components, it is best to open the bleed port and allow excess fluid or pressure to escape.
When Your Bike Brakes Need a Bleed
Sometimes new pads are enough, but for optimal performance, a brake bleed may be necessary. This process removes air and refreshes brake fluid to restore consistent feel and power.
You may want to perform a brake bleed if:
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Your brakes feel spongy or sluggish
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The bite point feels inconsistent or lacks modulation
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Your brake lever pulls too close to the bar
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You have pushed pistons back significantly during pad replacement
Brake bleeding can be very satisfying if you are mechanically inclined, but it does require knowledge, the correct bleed kit and fluid specific to your brake system. If you would rather leave it to the pros, our mechanics are always happy to help. You can book your service online on our website.
When to Replace Bike Brake Rotors
Brake rotors wear over time as well. In extreme cases, rotors can become so thin that they may flex or fold under heavy braking. This is why it is important to occasionally measure rotor thickness and replace them once they reach the manufacturer’s minimum specification.
Rotors should also be replaced if they become contaminated with grease or other substances that will not come off with proper brake cleaner. Contaminated rotors often become noisy and lose significant braking power
Brakes are one of the most important safety components on your bike, and a little attention goes a long way. Regular inspections, proper handling, and timely service will help ensure consistent performance, quieter rides, and more confidence on every descent.
Professional Bike Service in North Vancouver, BC
If you are unsure about the condition of your brakes, or simply want them feeling their best, stop by the shop and let our team take a look. We are always happy to help keep you riding safely and confidently.
Far from the shop? Our Online Support team can help you diagose and purchase the right parts.
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