So I got a Brompton recently and changed tires. It's then noticed rear wheel doesn't seem to free wheel for very long.(see video)
Is this normal? Breaks and fenders does not seem to be the problem, at least from what I Can see.
by AggravatingAd9018
6 Comments
Not normal. Rear wheel should stop sooner than front wheel but not as abruptly as yours. Something is rubbing against it.
not normal. brake rub?
If it’s not rubbing then the bearing is one eighth turn too tight. It’s not too hard to adjust but is a pain to get to.
You’re literally having the same problem as I do at the minute. If you pedal backwards when the bike is upside down, does the chain drive the wheel? A tiny bit of movement should be normal but mine drives the wheel.
If so, I have an appointment at the Brompton workshop in the morning. I will let you know how I get on
Put the bike right way up. Lift the back wheel off the ground slightly. Pedal. Does it do the same thing? Then there’s some friction somewhere there shouldn’t be. Could be the brakes, could be the bearings in the hub gear. Taking that apart and fixing it isn’t hard, but definitely an advanced repair and requires at least a basic set of tools, one special wrench to open the hub gear, and ideally a workbench and a vice with soft yaws or the right set of inserts to grip the axle.
I have had this problem three times – you probably need to take it to service for cleaning and oiling the hub. Good luck!