Problems and solutions: the brakes

On an eMTB adventure, optimal brake performance is a fundamental prerogative.

Too aggressive braking, "spongy" levers, contaminated pads or damaged discs are just some of the problems that can arise.

However, for every problem that the braking system presents, there is always a solution!

When a brake is "spongy", for example, it means that the brake lever is excessively soft and therefore the rider must "squeeze" the levers to have at least sufficient braking.

In this case, if the pads and rotors are in good condition, it may mean that the brakes need one purge, an operation through which the air particles that are created inside the braking system are removed.

The air, being a compressible element, creates an elastic cushion inside the system, making the brake "spongy".

This operation is extremely delicate and each braking system requires a customized bleeding procedure.

However, when braking becomes inconsistent, difficult to modulate and noisy, it is time to change the brake pads due to deterioration of the brake pads. ferodo.

A deteriorated pad can still brake but does so in an unpredictable way. Furthermore, if excessively worn, it can irreparably ruin the disc in the long run.

If the pads are new, but braking is not satisfactory, the problem could be disk.

In fact, even discs can become thinner, deformed and worn, which is why they must be checked periodically and, if necessary, replaced.

If the pads rub on the disc producing noise, which is very annoying, it will be necessary to position the disc in the center of the brake caliper.

In this case, simply loosen the two screws that secure it to the frame or fork and make sure that the disc is equidistant from both pads.

Another problem that often arises with eMTB brakes is when they start to whistle.

Responsibility is often attributed to contamination with chain oil or grease, which can end up on the disk.

In the event of contamination, specific products can be used (if the contamination is low), you can try to sand the discs and pads (if the contamination is medium) otherwise it is necessary to replace discs and/or pads.

Again, if the brake lever cannot move freely and does not return to its position, the cause may be a blocked brake pump which can be replaced at a relatively low cost.

The best way to prevent all these inconveniences is maintenance and periodic checks of the braking system, thus avoiding much higher costs!