How can the squeaking brakes of a bicycle be fixed?
Squeaking brakes can be fixed by: cleaning the brake pads and the wheel rim with a cloth to remove dirt and oil residue, checking if the brake pads are properly aligned and touching the rim evenly (not rubbing the tyre), tightening any loose brake components, replacing worn-out brake pads if they are old or hardened, and ensuring the brake pads are at the correct distance from the rim. If brakes are misaligned, they should be adjusted using appropriate tools.
Explanation
The chapter mentions that brakes slow down or stop the bicycle, and there are different types including rim brakes, disc brakes, and drum brakes. Brake pads grab the wheels to resist motion. Squeaking often indicates dirty or misaligned brake pads that need cleaning or adjustment.