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Troubleshooting - Brakes
Symptoms
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
Lever goes to the handlebar System leak
Air in the system
Brake pads worn out
Re-bleed the system
Re-bleed the system
Replace pads
Spongy Lever
Air in system
Re-bleed the system
Disc Rotor rubbing on
the Pads
Caliper not centered over disc
Inadequate clearance
Bent rotor
Adjust
Adjust/ Service
Replace rotor
No braking power
Contaminated pads
Worn out pads
Contaminated disc
Replace pads
Replace pads
Clean disc with alcohol
Pads fall out
Missing pin
Replace pin
Fluid loss
Hose leaking
Banjo leaking
Caliper bleeding
Tighten hose nut
Replace hose
Replace banjo copper washer
Tighten/replace bleeder
nipple
5.5 Rear brake
The parking brake is operated from a small lever
mounted on the left-hand handlebar. Because
the brake functions as a parking brake, it is
necessary to make sure that it holds securely.
Check the brake’s function, and if it appears to
be slipping, tighten up the central bolt on the
brake lever using a large flat screwdriver.
5.6 Drivetrain
The chain pulley on the tension side of the chain
will wear over time. Initially it may make a small
amount of noise, but within a few weeks it will
bed in and run much quieter. A pulley should
normally last about 10,000-12,000 miles, but if it
shows significant wear, replace it.
Check that your cranks are tight after the first
50 miles of riding. These should be fastened
firmly to the bottom bracket, with no play. Even
a small amount of movement will cause the joint
between the spindle and the hole in the crank
to wear, resulting eventually in damage to the
chainset.
The rear derailleur idlers tend to collect oil and
dirt. Clean them with a dry rag. If they squeak,
they can be disassembled and greased. When
you lubricate your chain, put a drop of light oil on
the moving pivots of the derailleur; they will last
much longer.
The more you ride your trike, the more familiar
you become to the sounds it makes. If you
notice any change in the sound your trike
makes, check it carefully; it may be a sign of
something needing attention.
