I just noticed today that the hydraulic brakes on my Niner have become VERY stiff - they only move an inch and half before locking down completely, and it requires a lot of effort to squeeze them more than that. There is a little bit of modulation available, but over a very small range of movement.
They were working fine last I used this bike (about 6-8 weeks ago - been away from home since and only got back a few days ago), and today, I was changing the tires prior to heading out on a trip in a couple of days. To replace the tires, I flipped the bike upside down.
AFAIK, I dont think I pressed the brakes while the wheels were off. And in any case, the brake pads seem properly positioned - there is no rub on the rotor or anything.
I am also noticed a soft squishing/squelching sound coming from the brake levers when I squeeze them, but there is no brake fluid leak or anything.
Any ideas on what do? I've tried putting a blade between the pads and levering it from side to side, but that doesnt seem to have done much. And in any case, like I said, pad rub is not an issue, so not sure if it is a piston thing.
So - do I need to make it bleed or what? And is there a way to do a quick'n'dirty bleed without a bleed kit (dont have one right now, and wont get one in time before my trip).
Basically, I'd like to be able to use a greater range of motion on the levers, in order to get the most out of the modulation.
TIA,
Vandit
They were working fine last I used this bike (about 6-8 weeks ago - been away from home since and only got back a few days ago), and today, I was changing the tires prior to heading out on a trip in a couple of days. To replace the tires, I flipped the bike upside down.
AFAIK, I dont think I pressed the brakes while the wheels were off. And in any case, the brake pads seem properly positioned - there is no rub on the rotor or anything.
I am also noticed a soft squishing/squelching sound coming from the brake levers when I squeeze them, but there is no brake fluid leak or anything.
Any ideas on what do? I've tried putting a blade between the pads and levering it from side to side, but that doesnt seem to have done much. And in any case, like I said, pad rub is not an issue, so not sure if it is a piston thing.
So - do I need to make it bleed or what? And is there a way to do a quick'n'dirty bleed without a bleed kit (dont have one right now, and wont get one in time before my trip).
Basically, I'd like to be able to use a greater range of motion on the levers, in order to get the most out of the modulation.
TIA,
Vandit