Squeaking brakes

Symptoms

I have the Tektro “V”-style brakes and I get a lot of squeal from the brake pads. Any thoughts on eliminating the squealing noise?

Causes

The rims often get glazed early on when the pads are new which can cause squeaking. Also, drops of oil from the chain can get on the rim, causing terrible squeaking.

Solutions

Try scuffing the rim and the brake pads with fine sandpaper or a Scotch-Brite pad.