Brake Stickiness - how to repair

ROK ON

In past few weeks the front brake on one of my bikes has become sticky. That is it does not easily disengage after pulling in the brake levers.

The brake is an Ultegra calliper brake that is 18mths old.
Pretty sure that is brake not cable as cables were replaced in November.

I have tried Sheldon Brown, Ehow, Biketutor but I can't find out how to fix brake stikiness.
Can anyone help please. Bike is cleaned and lubed regularly.

lukester

Has the cable been inspected/lubed in those 18 mths? If the cable is frayed, or lacking in lube, that could cause it. Is the cable housing ok, not kinked?

I'd disconnect the cable (just at the caliper) and squeeze the brake pads together manually, if it's sticking there then you know it's the caliper mechanism that needs cleaning/lubing.

If it's not sticking there then it must be cable/housing/lever related. Once the cable is disconnected I'd check the lever is also operating freely.

Bart80

Also make sure that a break pads don't catch an edge of a tyre.

seamus

As lukester says, disconnect the brake cable and squeeze the caliper manually (i.e. with your hands) and see if it returns normally. If it doesn't, then the caliper itself is gunged up. Easiest to completely disassemble it, clean it and tweak it to ensure that the release is good and strong.
Note if you're doing this, have a worktop with an old towel on it - there are small parts in the caliper that will drive you crazy if they roll onto the floor.

ROK ON

Thanks for advice. I hoped it would be easier than complete disassembly. Given my complete lack of patience, mechanical ability and time I will bring to LBS.

seamus

It's actually dead simple. All you need are allen keys, a cloth and some grease. 10 minute job tbh

Bambaata

It is very simple. Give her a go yourself first. I have a similar problem but in working on it i found out my front brake is in fact ceased to my fork Got it to an acceptable level though. Im not looking forward to rilling that out when i have to!

That or keep riding knowing you are getting a very good workout!

FergusF

Bart80 wrote: »

Also make sure that a break pads don't catch an edge of a tyre.

Another thing that could cause 'sticky' caliper brakes is when the brake pad is set too low, i.e. away from the tyre - as it wears it develops a ridge of unworn material that can catch the rim and prevent the brake releasing fully.

I had this problem and it took me a while to figure it out, very annoying!

Remove a brake pad and check for even wear. If you see a slight ridge, sand it down then readjust the pads so they hit the rim fully.

Diarmuid

I also found on Shimano Ultegra (maybe 105) brakes which have the centering bolt (or whatever it's called) if you have adjusted so far that it's near either end, the brakes become sticky. Don't know why