brake problem

C-S-B

I had just cleaned my bike, and just randomly pulled both brake levers, and I noticed that the right one (rear brake) didnt feel right - it didnt feel springy and the action felt kind of loose.

Anyways I checked the back brake and everytime I pull the lever to brake and then release it again, the lever springs back to where it should, but the brake doesnt return to its original position; ie the brake shoes are still touching the rim.

Ive tightened everything that looks like it might need tightening on the brake, and theres nothing obvious broken on the brake (when compared to the working front brake), so Im a bit lost as to what could be wrong..

I probably havnt described this as best as possible, but any ideas anyone??

Thanks

oh PS. levers are Shimano Ultegra, and the brakes are Shimano dual pivots

robbarker

Loosen the cable from the brake and check the spring is working properly and that the calliper is working properly. Assuming it is (it very likely will be) then you've narrowed it down to the cable.

Assuming it's the cable, take it off (instructions on www.parktool.com - look for repair help) and inspect the inner. it may just need a good clean and lube - GT40 on a bit of old towel followed by some chain lube - or you need to replace it, which would be the best idea.

C-S-B

Just lubed the cable after testing the caliper as you described and its working fine again - for now at least..

I wasnt keen on having to replace the cable as its internally routed, so hopefully I wont have to do that any time soon

Anyways, thanks muchly

John C.

One of the problems in lubing cables is they then attract crud, so you'll now have to keep an eye on it and keep on cleaning and oiling. That said, in UK with our climate we don't have much choice.