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Brake pad rubbing against brake disc (C1, C2, C3)

How to solve issues caused by brake pads are rubbing against your brake disc (C1, C2, C3)

Laura from Cowboy avatar
Written by Laura from Cowboy
Updated over 8 months ago

How do I know I have this issue?

Your brake pads are rubbing against the disk, creating a squeaking or grinding friction noise and/or resistance while the wheel spins.

You will likely notice the brake disc spinning (untrue) when you flip the bike and spin the wheel.

What causes this issue?

This issue is caused by untrue brake disc, a brake disc that is not perfectly round anymore or has been slightly bent.

Is this issue covered by warranty?

Where to have this issue fixed?

This issue is not specific to Cowboy bikes, so it's quickest to visit your local bike shop who will be able to fix this in a few minutes. You do not need specific Cowboy parts for this, any bike shop will have them in stock.

  • Local Bike shop: We recommend visiting your local favourite bike shop to easily and quickly fix this issue. Just ask them to check your brake calipers, pads and discs and show them the instructions below.

  • Cowboy Certified Bike Shop: If you are near a Cowboy Certified Bike Shop, you can also drop in there. Check our map here

  • Cowboy Care: Subscribers can have this issue fixed by a Cowboy technician - find information here

  • Self repair: If you are handy, you can check the videos below and try it out yourself.

What tools are needed?

5mm or 6mm Allen Key

Remove the front axle

Provided in Cowboy Toolbox

18 mm wrench

Remove the rear wheel nuts

Example (not provided in Cowboy tools box)

Torx 25

Remove the brake disc bolts

Example (not provided in the Cowboy tools box)

Adjustable spanner

Straighten the brake disc

Example (not provided in the Cowboy tools box)

What spare parts are needed?

  • If a new brake disc is required - Any brake disc, size 165mm

Repair Instructions

  • Step 1: Flip the bike over and spin the wheel. If you can see the brake disc spinning unevenly, first try to straighten the disc.

  • Step 2: To straighten the brake disc you can follow the step by step solution provided on this website.

  • Step 3: To replace or remove the brake disc, you can follow the following tutorial.

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