It can be dangerous to experience unresponsive brakes when riding an e-bike. Today we talk about how different types of e-bike brakes work, and the causes and symptoms of reduced brake sensitivity, and teach you how to fix your e-bike brake failure programme.
1.electric bicycle brake type and working principle
Mechanical disc brake
Mechanical disc brakes rely on the brake cable to connect the brake handle and the clamp. Squeezing the brake handle, the brake line pulls tight and pushes the brake pads to clamp the disc, slowing down the wheel. This type of brake system is relatively simple in structure and is commonly used in low-end e-bikes.
Hydraulic Disc Brake
Hydraulic disc brakes are generally used in high-end e-bikes, especially suitable for off-road and mountain riding or long-distance trekking. It transmits power through hydraulic oil, and the brake lever pushes the piston to make the brake pads press the disc. The advantage is strong braking force, stable feel, the disadvantage is the complex structure, high maintenance costs.
2.Reasons, symptoms and repair methods of brake sensitivity reduction
Mechanical disc brake problems
Loose or broken brake line
Symptoms: soft brake feel, reduced braking power; long brake handle stroke, or even unable to brake the car; brake pads and disc gap increases.
Detection method: lightly pinch the brake handle to feel the stroke and resistance; check whether the brake line is worn or broken; check the brake line adjustment screw.
Repair measures: adjust the tension of the brake line; replace the damaged brake line; lubricate the brake line regularly.
Excessive wear of brake pads
Symptoms: weakened braking power; noise when braking; brake pad thickness less than 3mm.
Detection method: Measure the thickness of brake pads with calipers; check whether the surface of brake pads is worn evenly.
Repair measures: Replace the worn brake pads; check the alignment of the brake pads with the disc after replacement.
Disc Deformation
Symptoms: Vibration of handle or body when braking; abnormal noise; reduced braking power.
Detection method: rotate the wheel and observe whether the disc swings; use professional tools to check the flatness.
Repair measures: slight deformation can be corrected; serious deformation or damage will require replacement of the disc.
Dirt or oil build-up
Symptoms: Decreased braking power; sharp sound when braking.
Detection method: Check whether there is oil or dust on the surface of brake pads and discs.
Fixes: Clean with special cleaner; if there is still a problem after cleaning, replace the brake pads; clean the brake system regularly.
Hydraulic Disc Brake Problems
Hydraulic oil leakage or insufficient
Symptoms: Brake handle feels soft and unresponsive; brakes may fail or have unstable performance.
Detection method: check the hydraulic fluid level; check the brake pipeline, clamp around the traces of oil leakage.
Repair measures: add hydraulic fluid; repair leaks, replace damaged parts; may need to vent after adding oil.
Brake line damage or system air intake
Symptoms: weakened brake feedback; soft and elastic feel; uneven braking.
Detection method: check the brake pipeline for damage, cracks; pinch the brake handle to feel the feel.
Repair measures: replace the damaged piping; exhaust the air in the system; check whether the piping is connected tightly.
Brake line damage or system air intake
Symptoms: weakened brake feedback; soft and elastic feel; uneven braking.
Detection method: check the brake pipeline for damage, cracks; pinch the brake handle to feel the feel.
Repair measures: replace the damaged piping; exhaust the air in the system; check whether the piping is connected tightly.
Excessive wear of brake pads (same as mechanical disc brakes)
Caliper failure
Symptoms: caliper jamming, affecting the contact between brake pad and disc; brake handle stiffness; uneven braking.
Detection method: Observe whether the caliper moves smoothly; check the caliper mounting bolts.
Repair measures: clean the caliper; lubricate the movable parts; replace the caliper in serious cases.
Disc wear or deformation (same as mechanical disc brake)
3、Bodywel Model Recommendation
When choosing an e-bike, the brake system is a key consideration. The following three Bodywel e-bikes are equipped with high-quality brakes to ensure safe and comfortable riding:
This bike is suitable for urban commuting, with a stable and reliable braking system. It adopts mechanical disc brakes, optimized design, good braking feel, braking force can meet the daily riding needs. The lightweight aluminum alloy frame is corrosion-resistant, and the 250W motor provides plenty of power and a range of up to 100km. It is simple and fashionable, and the price is affordable and cost-effective.
Equipped with high-performance mechanical disc brakes, sensitive braking. The frame design is ergonomic and comfortable to ride, the 250W motor provides stable power with a maximum range of 100km, and the LED color dashboard is convenient for viewing riding information. It is a practical choice for urban travel at an affordable price.
With a powerful 250W motor, it is suitable for all kinds of road conditions. The brake system uses hydraulic disc brakes with strong braking force to ensure safe riding in complicated terrain. The removable battery is easy to charge and has a range of up to 100 kilometers. Fat tire design increases stability and passability, cool appearance, is a good choice for outdoor riding enthusiasts.
I hope this article can help you solve the problem of e-bike brakes and choose the right model for you. Safe riding, happy travelling!
