When Should I Bleed My MTB Brakes
Most basic mountain bikes have disc brakes, but the differences are that some use cables, while others use hoses filled with oil. There are other brake systems, like the hydraulic brakes that consist of a lever, a hose, and a caliper. When you pull your lever, the oil can be displaced. It can force the pistons in the caliper to your rotor engagement.
If you question us why these brakes are filled with oil instead of gas like air, the answer will be that air compresses easily. That’s why it’s ideal for suspension forks. When you fill your fork’s air chamber with some liquid, it will feel completely rigid. It works excellent for cable-actuated brakes, but you will get friction between the cable and the housing.
Even the best MTB brakes have the chance of wearing and contamination. Air can enter into the system and makes the lever feel spongy. As a result, your brakes reduce effectiveness over time. This overall process is called a bleed. And we need to clear the brakes frequently for having smooth operations.
How Often Should You Bleed Your MTB Brakes?
The MTB brakes may become very loose after using a couple of months, so you have to bleed the brakes and put new oil in them. Experts recommend bleeding the brakes every two to three months. You can choose to have a licensed mechanic to do this, or you can try to do it yourself.
A vital query can come into your mind why you need to bleed MTB brakes. The best reply is the air that starts entering into the brake lines. It may also change the way of your bike performance. And if your brake holds too much air inside the brake lines, your brake system can be damaged entirely anytime.
Due to leaks or worn brake pads, most brakes hold air inside them. In other cases, air can enter into the brake lines during several brake services. Regardless of how your brake lines have got air, it is essential to remove them so that your braking system can back to a safe and efficient condition.
How Do You Know the Air Gets Inside?
The hydraulic brake may come with an excess lever that is sometimes referred to as a spongy or loose brake lever. If you pull the lever from a reasonable distance, there is a good chance to have air inside the brake fluid.
Your brakes also get air when you pull the lever to the handlebar. If your brake system holds too much air inside, it can damage your stopping power. So, it’s essential to bleed your brakes before using them.
Conclusion
You have to follow some steps when bleeding your brakes. Collect a bleed kit for your specific brake model. It comes with everything, for sure, you need, including the right oil. Then, get some additional accessories, such as rubber gloves, for wearing on your both hands.
A piece of torn clothes can be useful. Keep a spray bottle filled with alcohol or water near you. After collecting all of these, start attempting to bleed your brakes. You’re going to spill some brake fluid on the floor. But once you’ve learned how to bleed your brakes, it will feel more natural for you.