How To Bleed Tektro Brakes: A Step-By-Step Guide
When it comes to your bike’s braking system, ensuring that it is in top-notch condition is crucial for your safety. Occasionally, you may notice that your Tektro brakes feel spongy or that they lack the expected stopping power. This can be an indication that your brakes need bleeding. Brake bleeding refers to the process of removing air bubbles from the brake lines, thus restoring the brake’s optimal performance. This article will guide you through a step-by-step process on how to bleed Tektro brakes to keep your bike operating smoothly and safely.
What You Will Need
Before diving into the brake bleeding process, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
- Tektro brake fluid
- A 4mm Allen wrench
- A syringe or a brake bleeder kit
- A clean cloth or rag
- A plastic bottle or container to catch the old brake fluid
- A friend to assist you (optional)
The Step-by-Step Process
Follow these simple steps to bleed your Tektro brakes:
Step 1: Preparation
First, you need to find a suitable work area. Make sure it is well-lit and clean. This will prevent any dirt or debris from entering your brake system. Additionally, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials nearby.
Step 2: Remove the Old Brake Fluid
Start by loosening the brake lever clamp located on your handlebars using the 4mm Allen wrench. Once loosened, slide the brake lever towards the handlebar to expose the access port for the brake fluid reservoir.
Next, take your syringe or brake bleeder kit and attach it to the access port. Open the reservoir cap and remove the old brake fluid by gently pulling the syringe plunger or following the instructions specific to your bleeder kit. Be careful not to spill any fluid on your bike’s paint or components as it can cause damage.
Keep removing the fluid until you notice it becomes clear and free from air bubbles. At this point, close the reservoir cap and move on to the next step.
Step 3: Bleeding the Brakes
This step requires an extra pair of hands, so it’s helpful to have a friend assist you. Begin by locating the bleeder valve on your brake caliper. It is typically positioned on top of the caliper and is hexagonal in shape.
Attach a clear tube to the bleeder valve and ensure the other end is submerged in the container to catch the fluid. Now, ask your friend to slowly squeeze and hold the brake lever while you simultaneously loosen the bleeder valve with your Allen wrench. As the valve is loosened, you should notice some fluid and air bubbles flowing through the clear tube.
With the brake lever still held down, tighten the bleeder valve to stop the fluid flow. Instruct your friend to release the brake lever slowly. Repeat this process until you no longer detect air bubbles escaping through the tube.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once you have finished bleeding the brakes, recheck the brake lever’s feel. It should now be firm and responsive. If it still feels spongy, repeat the bleeding process until satisfactory results are achieved.
Lastly, wipe down any spilled brake fluid with a clean cloth or rag and make sure all connections are tightly secured. This will prevent any potential leaks or malfunctions.
Conclusion
Bleeding your Tektro brakes is a vital maintenance task that ensures your bike’s braking system functions at its best. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you will be able to carry out the process effectively and keep your bike safe for your next adventure. Remember, if you ever feel unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it is always recommended to seek professional assistance to avoid any potential damage to your bike.