Your bike ride should be smooth and fun, but that loud squeak from your brakes is ruining the experience. The good news? Fixing noisy brakes is simple with Tru-Tension. With a few easy steps, you can stop the sound and ride with confidence again. Whether you ride a regular bike or an e-bike, this guide will help you understand why your brakes make too much noise and how to fix the problem.
At Tru-Tension, we create high-quality tools and products for motorcycles, bikes, and karts. Our popular items, like the Chain Monkey and Belt Monkey, help riders keep their chains and belts at the right tension. We also offer lubricants and cleaners to keep your bike or motorbike in great shape. If you have any questions or need help, contact us today!
What Causes Squeaky Brakes?
That annoying noise? It’s usually your brakes complaining because something’s not quite right. If your bike has disc brakes, sound vibrations are often caused by contamination, where oil, grease, or cleaning products get on the brake rotor or pads. These substances make the surface slippery, so the brakes don’t grip properly.
Another reason might be glazed brake pads. Glazing happens when the pads get too hot from heavy or long braking. This heat hardens the surface of the pads, making them less effective and noisy.
For bikes with rim brakes, the pads might not be lined up right with the rim. Dirt or debris stuck on the rim or the pads can also cause noise. Over time, the brake pads may become hard or uneven, which can make the problem worse.
How to Fix Squeaky Disc Brakes
If your disc brakes are squeaking, start by cleaning them. Use Tru-Tension’s specialised break cleaner to clean the rotor – spray the cleaner onto the rotor and wipe it off with a clean cloth. Avoid grabbing the kitchen cleaner as this can leave a residue that can make things even noisier.
Next, take out the brake pads and inspect them. If they look shiny or glazed, you can fix them by gently rubbing the surface with fine sandpaper. This removes the hardened layer and helps the pads grip better. Be careful not to touch the pads with your hands after cleaning, as oil from your skin can contaminate them. Once they’re clean and smooth, put the pads back in place, making sure they line up correctly with the rotor.
Sometimes, squeaky brakes happen because the pads and rotor haven’t been bedded in properly. To do this, ride your bike and gently apply the brakes several times. This process creates an even layer on the rotor, improving braking performance and reducing noise.
For a more detailed guide on cleaning your bike, check out our handy guide: How to Keep Your Mountain Bike Clean >
How to Fix Squeaky Rim Brakes
For rim brakes, the first step is to check if the brake pads are positioned correctly – they should touch the rim evenly when you pull the brake lever. If they are too high, too low, or at an angle, fix them so they are parallel to the rim and make full contact when braking.
Next, clean the rim and brake pads. Use a bike-specific cleaner like Tru-Tension’s Monkey Juice Gel Bike Cleaner to clean the rim, wiping it dry with a soft cloth. For the brake pads, you can use a cloth or sponge to remove dirt.
Take a look at your brake pads. If they’re looking cracked, uneven, or just plain tired, it’s time to swap them out for new ones. Old or cheap brake pads can sometimes be louder, so upgrading to high-quality pads can make all the difference. Look for pads that are designed to work quietly and efficiently with your bike.
How to Prevent Squeaky Brakes
After you’ve fixed your loud brakes, regular maintenance is crucial to stop the same problem from occurring:
- Our first tip here is to clean your bike often, especially after riding in wet or muddy conditions. Make sure to use suitable products (such as the bicycle cleaning products offered by Tru-Tension).
- Never spray lubricant or cleaning products near the brakes as these substances can easily get onto the pads or rotors and cause noise.
- When washing your bike, ensure you dry the brakes fully to prevent rust or residue from building up.
- Riding techniques also play a role in brake maintenance. Don’t brake for too long, especially on steep hills, as this can overheat the pads and cause glazing. Instead, use short, controlled braking to manage your speed.
To keep your bike performing at its best, we recommend exploring our Bike Care Bundle or Bike Revive Bundle. They feature all the products you’ll likely require for your maintenance needs.
Fix Squeaky Brakes and Ride in Comfort with Tru-Tension
We’ve all been there – cruising along when that annoying sound kicks in. But don’t worry, it’s easier to fix than you think! In most cases, cleaning, adjustment, or replacing worn parts can do the job. With regular maintenance and a little care, you can stop the same issue from coming back. That means you’ll enjoy smooth, quiet braking and a more enjoyable experience on the road or trail.
At Tru-Tension, we understand how important it is to keep your bike in top condition, and we’re here to help you with that. Our products are designed to make bike maintenance easy and effective, ensuring you enjoy a smoother, quieter ride. Whether you need tools for adjusting your brakes or high-quality cleaning products, we’ve got you covered.
View Tru-Tension’s bicycle products >
