Have you ever been cycling along, the fresh breeze caressing your face, landscapes quickly passing by when suddenly… something’s not right. Your rear wheel isn’t spinning normally. You feel resistance or hear a small noise. Something isn’t quite right. You stop, check, but the problem remains mysterious. What’s happening? Discover the most common causes for these types of problems.
The Brake: Primary Suspect at the Start of Your Investigation
When dealing with a wheel that isn’t spinning freely, the first factor to suspect is the brake. Indeed, if it’s poorly adjusted, it can rub against the rim and prevent the wheel from spinning properly.
So, how do you check if the brake is the cause? Simply by examining the brake. Observe the position of the brake pads relative to the rim: they shouldn’t touch it when the brake isn’t engaged. If they do, you’ll need to make an adjustment.
The Hub and Lock Ring: A Common Cause
At the heart of your bicycle wheel is what we call the hub. It’s what allows the wheel to rotate around the axle. Needless to say, it plays a crucial role in your bicycle’s mobility.
If your wheel isn’t spinning freely, the problem might come from the hub. Indeed, the hub’s lock ring might be too tight, which prevents the wheel from spinning properly. To check this, you’ll need to remove the wheel and feel the hub’s play. If you feel unusual resistance, the tightness is probably the source of your problem.
Are Your Bearings in Good Condition?
The bearings are essential elements of your bicycle. They allow the wheel to spin without friction. However, over time, they can wear out and no longer function properly.
If your wheel isn’t spinning freely, your bearings might be the cause. How to check? By spinning the wheel by hand. If you feel it’s not spinning smoothly, or if you hear clicking noises, it’s highly likely that your bearings need to be replaced.
The Cassette and Chain: A Duo to Watch
In terms of bicycles, the cassette and chain form an inseparable duo. If either of these elements has a problem, it will inevitably affect your wheel’s rotation.
If your chain is too tight, it can prevent the wheel from spinning freely. Similarly, if your cassette is defective, it can create resistance making wheel movement difficult.
And By the Way… How Old is Your Bicycle?
Finally, don’t forget that your bicycle’s age can play a role in this problem. Indeed, a bicycle with worn components won’t function as well as a new one.
If your bicycle already has many years and miles on the odometer, it’s possible that some of its components need to be replaced. A visit to a bicycle repair shop can help you determine which parts need changing.
Basketteur de moins d’1m80, je prends la plume pour parler basket, cyclisme ou football. Je ne crie pas “Go Spurs Go” mais je suis Wemby de près. Et tant pis pour mes Trail Blazers qui végètent à l’Ouest…