What is a common sign of brake wear on a bicycle?

A common sign of brake wear on a bicycle includes the presence of squeaking noises, a noticeable reduction in stopping power, or uneven wear on the brake pads. Squeaking sounds often indicate that the brake pads are worn down and may need to be replaced. When brake pads wear unevenly, it can lead to less effective braking and compromised safety. Additionally, as brake pads become more worn, their ability to create friction on the wheel surface diminishes, resulting in reduced stopping power. Monitoring these signs is crucial for maintaining the bike's braking system and ensuring safe operation.

The other options do not accurately reflect signs of brake wear. For example, brightly colored handle grips are simply an aesthetic feature and provide no information about brake functionality. The weight of the bicycle doesn’t directly relate to the condition of the brakes, and increased speed while descending could be a factor of various elements such as rider skill or terrain but does not indicate brake wear either. Therefore, recognizing the signs involving noise, stopping power, and pad wear is essential for proper bicycle maintenance.