Abstract: A ratchet brake for a wheelchair of the type comprising a frame, a seat member, a back member, two arm-rest members, at least one wheel. The ratchet brake mounted to the frame for limiting the at least one wheel to forward rotation upon actuation by the user. Wherein the ratchet brake comprises a lever handle engaged with the brake for actuation, an actuating pin that prevents rotation of the ratchet gear in a direction associated with rearward movement of the wheelchair, a cylindrical ratchet gear having a rounded outer surface engaging the outer surface of the wheel and a toothed inner surface engaging the actuating pin, an axle supporting the ratchet gear for rotation, and a linkage operably connecting the handle to the ratchet gear supporting axle.