Weak Brakes? Setup Checklist & Fixes

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It’s usually setup — not the brake

A fast diagnostic checklist for “not enough power”: pads, bedding-in, rotor size, contamination, bleeding, and alignment.

Need deeper guides? Start here: Bedding-in · Pad Installation · Compound Comparison · Customer Support

60-Second Diagnosis

  1. Can you lock the wheel on flat ground? If yes, the system has “power” — your issue is friction/heat/setup consistency.
  2. Is the lever spongy or pulling to the bar? Likely air in the system or pad knockback.
  3. Any squeal + sudden loss of bite? Assume contamination until proven otherwise.
  4. New pads/rotor? If bedding-in wasn’t done properly, power will feel weak.
  5. Rotor size vs riding? If you’re heavy/fast/steep/e-MTB on 160 mm, consistency will suffer.

Top Causes of “Not Enough Power” (And the Fix)

1) Pads not bedded in

New pads need heat cycles to build a consistent transfer layer on the rotor. Without it, you’ll get low bite and weak stopping. Follow our bedding-in guide.

2) Wrong pad compound for the terrain

If you’re overheating pads (enduro, alpine descents, e-MTB, heavier riders), friction drops and the brake feels “weak.” Use our compound comparison to match pads to riding.

3) Rotor too small

Smaller rotors = less leverage and less heat capacity. Upsizing (180/203 mm) is often the biggest consistency upgrade on steep terrain.

4) Contamination

Oil from chain lube, sprays, or greasy fingers reduces friction dramatically. If you want the “why”, read what brake pads are made of.

5) Air in the system / poor bleed

Air compresses, so pressure builds slowly and the lever travels too far. A proper bleed usually restores power instantly.

6) Installation / alignment issues

Misalignment can cause long lever throw, rubbing, or knockback. Use our installation guide for correct fitting basics.

When It Really Is the Brake

Rare, but real:

  • Lightweight 2-piston trail brakes used for downhill/alpine riding
  • Heavy e-bikes with small rotors and heat-sensitive pads
  • Riding faster/steeper than the system was designed for

Still not sure? We’ll help you diagnose it.

Send us your brake model, rotor size (front/rear), rider weight, terrain, and your pad type — and we’ll recommend the best fix. Contact Customer Support.

Disclaimer: Brakes are safety-critical. If you’re unsure about installation, bleeding, or hardware condition, get the bike checked by a qualified mechanic.