How to clean wheel rims/brake pads?

SR7492

Been out on the bike for the last few sundays, alhtough the weather has been dry, the roads have been wet as the temp hasn't been warm enough.

I've noticed that my rims are quite dirty, especially the alloy brake area and the brakes make a squeeky noice/rubbing noice when pressed (its almost like there is crap on the rims)

Anyway I think a good clean of the rim is in order, so what is the best procedure/stuff to use?

thanks!

smidsy

Warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush. The rinse well with clean water.

keef66

just hot soapy water and a stiff brush for the rims. Also worth inspecting the pads and if neccessary giving them a scrub too, and picking out any embedded abrasive material or bits of aluminium.

drlodge

I wash my bike/wheels using hot water, car shampoo and a baby bottle cleaning brush since it has a plastic handle and soft bristles - just the job for getting in the nooks and crannies incliding the brake blocks. While its drying, clean your chain outer with a rag and then lube.

wishitwasallflat

Clean the suface of the pads by first picking out any metal etc embedded in the material and then dress the face by sandpapering.

Clean the rim as described above (warm soapy water - I use Turtle wax car shampoo) and if needed wipe it off with Acetone (nail varnish remover) on a cloth afterwards to remove any oils marks or residue.

dodgy

As others have said, clean out any shards of metal you find in the pads, that's the most important part. That nasty 'noice' you hear is the metal rubbing against metal. I use the sharp point of a stanley knife to pick 'em out.

Bozman

Hot soapy water and then i run a scouring pad around the rims and then dry the rim with a muzzy.

paul64

Regular clean similar to others although I do use a Mavic Eraser from time to time to clean the rims properly. Creates a trail of iron filings so bear in mind where you choose to do it.

SR7492

Brilliant - thank you everyone for the replies, much appreciated.

:-)