Front wheel started giving a lot of resistance on my ride yesterday. I can do basic maintenance but this is beyond my knowledge. Is this a fix, take it to LBS or new wheelset? Assuming there is metal on metal going on inside?
Wheel doesn’t want to turn, fix or new?
byu/mitv11 inbikewrench
by mitv11
4 Comments
Lbs to adjust the hubs. Unless you’ve got cone wrenches.
If it was turning just fine before, check your brake pad alignment. Next in line, check your quick release tension sometimes too much tension stops the wheel from turning. Lastly check your hub, usually a good clean and some grease will get you back on the road.
Most likely, your brake pad is rubbing on the rim. Be sure that the axle is seated fully and evenly in the fork — it might have shifted or was tightened into the fork incorrectly. Fixing that is simple, takes 3 seconds.
If the wheel is straight and the brake is still rubbing, check that the pads are not rotated and rubbing the tire, then address the spring tension to balance the brake. Never fear! This is really elementary stuff to learn.
https://www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/repair-help/linear-pull-brake-service
If it’s the hub, you need two tools to fix that. it’s a little trickier than the above fixes, but worth learning and investing in the tools needed. you probably just need a 13mm cone wrench and a 17mm open wrench. cone wrenches are the only bike-specific tool you need.
https://www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/repair-help/hub-overhaul-and-adjustment
Don’t ride with a poorly adjusted hub, as it will wear down the hub and axle hardware.
Check and make sure the metal elbow that your brake cable goes into is seated properly. They can pop out of place and cause your pads to rub on the rim.