Stupid Newbie Mistake
 

Hey guys - So I'm new to cycling, and obviously not uber knowledgable about what NOT to do, as I illustrated earlier this evening. I had the front wheel off of my bike - I was practicing changing a flat - when I had a stroke of genius and decided to absent mindedly squeeze my brake lever. Needless to say, I am now not able to return the wheel to its proper position because the brake pads are too close together.... Help? Thanks.

I take it you have hydraulic brakes?

No sweat, just take a dull screwdriver or similar tool and spread them back out again. There should be room in the reservoir to do that, just take care not to damage the pads.

You may want to stop by an LBS that has some extra caliper spacers to fit your brakes. That little piece of plastic can save a hassle whenever you transport the bike with wheels removed.

Fixed it. Thanks a lot - you're a life saver. I won't be doing that again.