Get your bike stopping safely and smoothly

Your brakes are one of the most important parts of your bike. If they're squeaking, rubbing, feeling weak or simply don't feel right, it's worth getting them checked.

At Riverside Cycles, we inspect, repair and service bike braking systems from our independent workshop in Watford.

Whether you need a simple brake adjustment, new brake pads, a cable replacement or a hydraulic brake service, we'll check what's needed and explain the work before carrying it out.

Common Brake Problems

Not sure if your brakes need attention? Here are some of the common problems we see.

Brakes feel weak

If your brake lever is coming too close to the handlebar or your bike isn't stopping as quickly as it should, your brakes may need adjustment, new pads or further inspection.

Brake pads are worn

Brake pads gradually wear down through normal use. Once they become too thin, braking performance can be affected and other components can potentially be damaged.

Brakes are squeaking

Some brake noise can be caused by contamination, worn pads, incorrect adjustment or the way the brake and wheel components are interacting.

We'll check the system to find the cause rather than simply replacing parts unnecessarily.

Brakes are rubbing

If you can hear a constant rubbing sound when the wheel turns, the brake may need adjusting or there could be another issue with the wheel, rotor or brake system.

Brake lever feels spongy

A spongy hydraulic brake lever can indicate that the system needs bleeding or further inspection.

Brake cable feels stiff

Old, dirty or damaged cables and outer housings can make your brakes feel heavy or slow to respond.

How Do I Know If My Brake Pads Need Replacing?

Brake pads don't last forever and their lifespan depends on how and where you ride.

You may need new pads if:

• The pad material is very thin

• Braking performance has reduced

• The brake is making unusual noises

• The pads are contaminated

• The pad surface is damaged

• You are hearing metal contacting the braking surface

If you're unsure, bring the bike in and we'll check them for you.

We work on:

• Disc brakes

• Hydraulic disc brakes

• Mechanical disc brakes

• Rim brakes

• V-brakes

• Caliper brakes

• Brake pads

• Brake cables and outer cables

• Hydraulic brake systems

• Brake levers and controls

Hydraulic brake bleed from £25

[CALL 01923 590216]

What We Do

Brake Inspection & Adjustment

We'll check the brake system and make adjustments where possible to ensure the brakes are operating correctly.

This can include checking:

• Brake pad position

• Cable tension

• Brake alignment

• Lever operation

• Rotor alignment

• Brake calipers

• Wheel and rim condition