Why do rear brakes freeze up during the winter?

[schwinnmesa]

Hey guys. I just have a simple question that's been bothering me.

Why is it that rear brake cables always freeze up in the winter? The levers are stiff on the cable, like it's stuck. But then when it warms up, the tension seems relaxed when you squeeze. Meanwhile, the front cables are always good. Does this have to do with cable length?

How and why? Anyone have a clue?

 

[user 135]

Rear brakes have a horizontal layout vs a front brake that has a vertical layout. Newer bikes also run the cable bare between the housing that allows more points of access for water. Ladies bikes tend to have bigger problems too.

I never had a problem with the brakes but I have had the rear derailer freeze up on me.

 

[deorman]

Another possibility could be contraction causing shortening of the cable or reducing the diameter of the housing. :|Being longer than the front would cause a bigger change.