Noisy brakes!

davidb67
davidb67 Posts: 39
edited August 2015 in Road general
Went out for the first 2 rides on my new wheels at the weekend, Reynolds Assault C/C with DT Swiss 240 hubs, DT Aerolite spokes. Using the included Reynolds Blue Cryo Power pads, which were fitted by my LBS whom I trust – not only are they known for building wheels, they also deal with a range of high-end bikes & components.

First time I’ve ridden carbon wheels, changing up from the stock Bontrager “race” wheelset that came with my ’13 Madone.

Braking performance seemed absolutely fine to me – it was dry! – but there was quite a bit of squeal from the brakes – especially on Sunday’s ride which was a much hillier route than Saturday, with the resultant descents.
At no point did I feel that brake performance went away – i.e. no fade, and I was careful to try and “pulse” the brakes a little through the lever in an attempt to try and prevent overheating, but then I’ve no idea what is normal and what would be too hot!

I have read that Reynolds improved the brake-track significantly on the 2014-on Assault rims, and that their newer pads also contributed to improved performance and cooler temperatures, but I don’t know if I should ignore the noise from the brakes and everything is absolutely fine, and I’m no-where near heating the rims to the point of causing damage/issue, or whether the noise is an indication something isn’t right – either with my technique or pads, braking temperatures etc.
I’m pretty sure I’m not getting the brakes to the sort of temperatures that the manufacturer would start to say is too high, but ultimately I wouldn’t know.

I’ve read plenty about ensuring pads are toe-d in, but have read an equal amount from those who’ve said they HAVE toe-d the pads in correctly and their carbon wheels & pads still make a noise.

The squeal from the brakes only happens on faster deceleration, perhaps above 20mph, i.e. not just a gentle scrub-off of speed below that, where the noise is different.

All this might be perfectly normal with the wheels & pads I now have, I am just looking for some advice.
Oh, I’m 71kgs, so whilst no feather-weight racing-snake, also not someone whose bulk is taxing wheels or braking system excessively!

Thanks,
David

Comments

  • I have exactly the same issue with my Giant P-SLR 0's and the supplied Giant brake pads. A tremendous squeal occurs after maybe 8-10 seconds of braking on a fast descent and only on the front rim. I thought nothing of it as when I looked at buying some SwissStop pads they stated that they eliminated break squeal so I assumed it was a common problem?!

    I would be interested to know if others have the issue/rectified it.
  • foggymike
    foggymike Posts: 862
    My Assaults were quiet from new, just the usual stopping noise. No squeal at all. I didn't toe them in though, just set up flat to the rim so maybe worth trying that.

    I always thought toeing on was a bit pointless as after a few weeks the pads wear so they are flat to the rim anyway.