Sometime brakes drag and you need to know how to fix them. This is how. Keep in mind that there are many types of brakes out there -- disc brakes, V brakes, linear pull brakes, road brakes, etc. Most V and linear pull brakes have an adjustable brake pad, and this is what this article will focus on.

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[edit] Steps

Unscrew the brake pads, located on the inside of the brake calipers above your tires. The brake pad is the small piece of rubber on the lower inside of the caliper that actually comes into contact with the wheel.
Adjust the brake so that it is 3 - 5 mm from the rim.
Tighten and test.
The most basic brake repair adjustment you'll encounter is the cable length adjustment. On a typical safety bike, you may make fine adjustments without requiring any specialized tools, by only turning an adjusting barrel to make the best fit at the end of a length of cable housing.
The adjusting barrel for a V brake is normally located on the hand-lever, where the housing exits.
If they still don't work, take the bike to the local bike shop.

[edit] Warnings

Make sure the brake pads aren't worn down - pads that are worn down significantly will stick no matter how much you adjust them.
Make sure brake pads are tight.
Before you go for any ride, check your brakes.
Always remember to hook the brake back, immediately after you re-install the wheel!