How freely should my front wheel spin after installing new brake pads. It's seems that they should turn freely after pushing the piston back in the caliper, but they are pretty stiff.

 

There should feel like there is a slight drag, but that comes more from the wheel bearings and mass of the wheel.

When you changed your pads, did the old ones have a shim? and if so did you put it back? If you did, that's your problem. If you need shims with the new pads they would have came with them.

If you didn't have shims or put them back, make sure you seated the pad properly in the guides.

Did you put new rotors on? Where they pre turned when you bought them? Some cheaper companies sell the rotors before turning and they have to be faced before they are used. They are thicker and will also cause a sticking feeling.

 

alot of times when the rotor isn't turned the new pad hits the rust on the edge....use a dremel and knock it off