It's a pain, really makes it hard to brake smoothly, any ideas what it might be?

I've adjusted the lever...

 

did u clean it, is it tightened down too tight? old fluid? dirty/clogged calipers or pistons?

 

I guess I don't know where to start, just started happening this year. What am I looking to clean / loosen?

 

i would start with cleaning your cailber. Its really easy. Here is a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Yo80Bm8L7w
Also i would like to add, while you have the brake pads off, just sand them down and clean the rotors while your add it.

Than i would probably check your brake fluid for a dark whiskey looking color. if so flush the system, or if it seems okay bleed the brakes. Here is a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkxcQ...eature=related

If that still doesnt work than i dont know lol

 

Excellent stuff, thank you! I especially like the wrench that clears the fork in the first vid. I don't know what the tool that turns the caliper is called, but I do want and should get one.

 

might try lubing the cables too

 

I think that guy has a special order tool.. however i'm not sure where he got it. When i cleaned my brake pistons i usually just got a tooth brush and scrubbed that area for a really long time hoping the brushes would take most of the dirt off. I heard about some people using a pair of pilers and opening it up in the piston, therefore gripping it and turning. But in my opinion i dont trust that method because you can scratch the pistons.

 

Resurrecting old thread. My front brake lever is getting sticky too. OP were you able to isolate what was causing it in your case?