In order to have the safest experience while riding your bike, all the parts must be kept in a good working order. This rule is especially important concerning the brakes. The bike brakes allow you to control your speed and enable you stop gradually, or suddenly in an emergency. Dirt on brakes can impede their effectiveness. If you see that your brake pads have accumulated dust and debris, clean them to put them back in working order.
Step 1
Moisten a lint-free rag with rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol will enable you get the pads clean without using a cleaner such as soap that would lubricate the brake pads, making them less effective.
Step 2
Rub the rag along the rim and center plate of the tire, where it makes contact with the brake pads. Make sure that the rim is coated in rubbing alcohol. Not only will this allow you to apply the cleaner to the brake pads, it will also clean the rim.
Step 3
Press on the brake handle slightly so that the brake pads are touching the rim, but the tire is still free to turn. While in this position, spin the wheel around so that the rubbing alcohol on the rim coats and cleans the brake pad.
Step 4
Clean any excess rubbing alcohol from the rim using the second clean rag. Allow the brake pad a couple of hours to air dry before you go riding.
Tips and Warnings
- Inspect the brake pads prior to the cleaning operation. If they are warn down, it may be a good time to replace them. Don't be afraid to tighten the brakes as you clean them. The friction from the tire is what will get the dust and grime off of them.
Things You'll Need
- Rubbing alcohol
- Two lint-free cloths
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