New bike; one pad doesn't move

[rgar98]

Hello,
Just received a Trek bike for Christmas. One pad on the front wheel (the one on the left)‚ is touching the rim ever so slightly and doesn't pull back when the lever is released. It seems that the spring is not strong enough. I know there is a setting to increase the spring strength but I don't believe that I should have to make that adjustment on a new bike. Am I missing something obvious here?

Thanks.

Richard Garcia

[GeorgeET]

There are lots of different brakes out there. So a good photo would help.
Yes the spring tension can be adjusted, on some the pads can be moved back.
You can also relax the cable a bit by turning in the barrel adjuster at the handlebar if its not in all the way or at the brakes..
Make sure your wheel is centered first and running straight, and the brakes are not canted to one side.

[X-RAY]

its not uncommon to have to make adjustments to a new bike. it doesn't mean quality is poor. im assuming these are v-brakes?

[rgar98]

(12-30-2010, 09:33 PM)X-RAY Wrote:  its not uncommon to have to make adjustments to a new bike. it doesn't mean quality is poor. im assuming these are v-brakes?

Yes. they are.

[bobtravers]

Try Adjust the spring tension centering screw on the bottom of the brake, near the pivot on the fork or seat tube on rear...

When you screw it, you'll see that the position of your V-Brake will change!

[attachment=1795]

[GeorgeET]

Here is a lot of good info about V brakes. Sheldon's site and the tech repair guide here has good info on bike repair and maintenance.

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/canti-direct.html