My Brakes are locking up

Overview

If your brakes are dragging or locking up, your brake lever freeplay may be out of spec.

Proper freeplay ensures:

• The brake fully releases when not in use
• The system isn’t under constant pressure
• Smooth and predictable braking performance

🔧 Recommended Freeplay

Brake lever freeplay should be approximately:

👉 1/8 inch (3mm)

⚠️ Signs Your Freeplay Needs Adjustment

• Brake feels tight or engaged at rest
• Wheel does not spin freely
• Brakes dragging while riding
• Brake locks up too easily

🛠️ Adjustment Instructions

1. Locate the Adjustment Screw

• Find the small Allen screw on the inside of the brake lever pivot
• This controls the lever freeplay

2. Make Your Adjustment

• Turn clockwise
  👉 Reduces freeplay (tightens lever)
• Turn counter-clockwise
  👉 Increases freeplay (loosens lever)

3. Set Proper Freeplay

• Adjust until you achieve:
  👉 ~1/8 inch (3mm) of lever movement before engagement

4. Test the Brakes

• Spin the wheel:
  • It should rotate freely without drag
• Apply the brake:
  • Engagement should feel smooth and controlled

⚠️ Important Notes

• Too little freeplay can cause:
  • Brake drag
  • Overheating
  • Lock-up during riding
• Too much freeplay can cause:
  • Delayed braking response

👉 Always recheck after adjustment

🚀 Still Having Issues?

If your brakes are still dragging after adjustment:

• Check for:
  • Misalignment - See how to center your brake calipers HERE
  • Contaminated components - clean your brake rotors and brake pads with brake clean to remove any contaminants

Submit a ticket and we’ll help you get it dialed.

Electro & Company
Ready to Rip.