Lake LX-006 Freerider, with Zoom dual crown fork, Deore components--with the exception of the hubs (they were Joy tech, now they are Formula), Brakes, Levers (were Deore dual control, swapped for Sachs Bandix 9-spd twist shift and Tekto brake levers), Titec Hellbent bars, Zoom threadless stem,Wellgo platform/SPD-style DH pedals, Weinmann Rims (originals were Sun Swift Horse), Kenda Tires, Tahoma seat pillar (original was Zoom), and Azonic Love Seat.
Bottom Line:
These brakes are ultra-finicky to set-up. The front brake flexes noticably. They are intolerant of too much length in brake housing. The odd-sized rear rotor makes replacement rough (its a 145mm--Hope makes one, but its expensive). The front is a relatively common 160mm. These brakes operated poorly with the Deore levers that came OEM with the bike, but the Tektro levers certainly improved things. These brakes aren't for upgrade. Better cheap Discs are available from RST, Suntour, Tektro, or Promax. If they came stock, they'll make do until you waste them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam joanisse
a Racer
from Sudbury ontario Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
chizzim's
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
camroncycle
Strengths:
well all you gotta do is take off the pads and the one with the spiral side you put white grease behind it just a little and remove that rubber seal its the main problem
Weaknesses:
there is none if you know how to mod things cause they awsome when it comes to trick ridin but long hard stops is where the price starts to show
Similar Products Used:
avid V's & xt V's
Bike Setup:
custom 12" frame rock shox duke 100mm, fsa headset,xt groupo,sun rynolite on deore disc hubs,white industries crank,wellgo pets, cane creek bb,racefacerings,kalloy seat post,easton monkey lite bars,avid 2.0 levers,racefacesystem stem, cables are from gore.
Bottom Line:
the brake is alright it is perfect 4 what i do so owell recall
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noah
a Cross Country Rider
from Hawkestone, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 22, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
OEM
Strengths:
none. absolute crap.
Weaknesses:
everything
Similar Products Used:
hayes, formula, rim-based
Bike Setup:
came on giant atx870. were replaced with formula brand which were only marginally better by bike shop (recall?)
Bottom Line:
Stay away if you value your life. There is nothing like the feeling of no braking power while going down a hill. Or worse than that, locking on and flipping you over onto your face. STAY AWAY FROM THESE IF YOU VALUE YOUR LIFE!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Max Rentz
a
from Newark, OH Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Runway 28
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
El Marko
Strengths:
Last a long time. Probably 1000 landings...only replaced the pads once, and they were not worn out.
Weaknesses:
It was tough making the brackets to mount the rotor and the caliper mount.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
uhhhh.....see below
Bottom Line:
I use my Diatechs on a 600-pound (gross) ultralight aircraft. They have great holding power, and have never failed me. I can't believe how long the pads last. They squeal just a bit, but you can hardly hear it over the noisy engine and prop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kel C
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, Canada Date Reviewed: November 21, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
they don't stop, V-brakes are far better
Weaknesses:
V-brakes
Similar Products Used:
x-country/trials
Bike Setup:
Xcountry, trials
Bottom Line:
sorry these brakes don't cut it for an intermediate rider, fits a city bike for commutes. They used to squeal like crazy, not anymore with proper adjustment.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scragg
a Weekend Warrior
from waverley, nova scotia, canada Date Reviewed: October 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
"the school"
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
sportwheels (the best)
Strengths:
stop very well and a good price.
Weaknesses:
squieks like there was not end.
Bike Setup:
norco nx 1000 "01 with rock shox judy tt "02 with dmn dv-22 rear suspension
Bottom Line:
they work well but the squiek drives u crazy but if u want a low priced disc brake i would sugest these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shaun
a Downhiller
from USA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
what? Strengths? Nope none.
Weaknesses:
well, they squeak for about an hour then stop for 6 seconds then squeak. The return springs brake easily. the pads wear easily. And, they just dont stop that great.
Similar Products Used:
cantivilear brakes are just as good
Bike Setup:
diamondback x-2 marzocchi jr t have shimano deore m-515 la discs now.
Bottom Line:
the brakes that i got cames with my bike. i dont know if i got a faulty pair or not but a lot of people like them. im not one of them. I would recomment them for a beginner who needs disc brakes but dosent have the beans for hydros.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Brand
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester UK Date Reviewed: June 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere and Everywhere
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
New at auction
Strengths:
They stop you dead, on the braking front what more do you want????
Weaknesses:
That effing squeal i go cycling all day some times as long as 16 hours in the peace and quite of the countryside and its the last thing i want to hear. I clean with meths and sandpaper which if i do it often enough it reduces the problem ie its not a constant but i could really do without it. PS no problems with setup.
Similar Products Used:
various bikes with v brakes and 1 with formula b4s(not used much yet) but no squeel AT ALL????
Bike Setup:
Sarcen, Manitou sus front, hardtail with v brakes
Bottom Line:
They came with the bike wouldn't buy them again unless i could solve the 3 little pig noise. Excluding that i can see no reason to buy any other disc brakes ie if they stopped me any quicker i would part company with the bike. Not done a lot of major downhills but sometimes they feel like there going to give up on really long downhills they never do and i think its a cable problem anyway. Note these were the recalled brakes and i had no problems getting the replacement despite buying at auction.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fernando Biagioni
a Downhiller
from Piracicaba, SP BRAZIL Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the streets are my playground..
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
strenghts???sorry??? did I read it right???
Weaknesses:
all of it
Similar Products Used:
the time I bought it I´ve used pretty much everything out there.
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XTR with Magura Big Ego and Magura Gustav M. Thanx Stefan @ MAGURA DEUTSCHLAND
Bottom Line:
Submitted by Fernando Biagioni a Downhiller from Piracicaba/SP, BRAZIL Date Reviewed: 11/22/00 6:55:56 AM that was the last time I wrote here... there are more than 1 year and a half and I DIDN´T GET ANY NEW CALIPER FROM THE RECALL MADE BY DIA TECH. If you care about your life, stay away from this. If you care about money, go buy some V-brakes cuz I guarantee you that they work better than DIA TECH SPIRAL STOP. I DIDN´T RECEIVE ANY CALIPER FROM THE RECALL NOR A WORD FROM DIATECH ANYMORE. At least I´ve learned that if I have to buy some thing, I gonna buy from a brand that I can trust.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a
from Ft.Lauderdale Florida Date Reviewed: March 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
down the stairs
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
HUH !?!
Weaknesses:
TWO piece caliper,mine came apart,if you want to have a life threatening experience go buy them .WEEECK , a Teckro V has more umph.
Similar Products Used:
On bicycle only Vees
Bike Setup:
Irelevant
Bottom Line:
The stupid things came standard issue on my bike;i 've used them up; ill never forget them;ill get some Avid mecs after these and if Avids are going to prove as worthless as these i'll get Gustav's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pat
a Weekend Warrior
from seekonk,ma Date Reviewed: September 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Similar Products Used:
avids mechanical
Bike Setup:
diamondback x2
Bottom Line:
just came back from killington ski resort,hate to say it but my diatechs are hurtin,a few hours of downhill fun cooked the roters.they sure dont stop like they use to either,I changed the pads, cleaned em up with alcahol, all the usual stuff,but they just dont want to bite anymore.a friend that went with me rented a bike at the mountain.the rentals all have avid mechanical disc brakes.I tried his rental out and was blown away at how much bite the avids have.he rode all day on those avids with no problems.my diatechs were great for all the xc riding i do.......but downhill stuff just killed em....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Armstrong
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, Arizona Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Airpark Bikes
Strengths:
Ease of operation - Stopping power (I weigh 230) Nice modulation
Weaknesses:
Sticking problem (taken care of with new calipers) Needs to be set up with new levers (my was set up with Avid 1.9's) Does not provide enough pull. Need a conversion or adaptor kit to mount on Manitou forks
Similar Products Used:
V-brake's
Bike Setup:
Raleigh M-600, XT, Manitou SXR
Bottom Line:
Like many, I was unfortunate enough to have the recalled calipers and had the sticking problem that was so often occuring. I called Diatech and talked to Eric Schreiber and he quickly took care of my problem - the customer service on this was un-paralleled by anybody in the industry. I have two brand new ones on the way. Other than the sticking problem I had the brakes worked very well for the type of riding I do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew Armstrong
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, Arizona Date Reviewed: August 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Airpark Bikes
Strengths:
Ease of operation - Stopping power (I weigh 230) Nice modulation
Weaknesses:
Sticking problem (taken care of with new calipers) Needs to be set up with new levers (my was set up with Avid 1.9's) Does not provide enough pull. Need a conversion or adaptor kit to mount on Manitou forks
Similar Products Used:
V-brake's
Bike Setup:
Raleigh M-600, XT, Manitou SXR
Bottom Line:
Like many, I was unfortunate enough to have the recalled calipers and had the sticking problem that was so often occuring. I called Diatech and talked to Eric Schreiber and he quickly took care of my problem - the customer service on this was un-paralleled by anybody in the industry. I have two brand new ones on the way. Other than the sticking problem I had the brakes worked very well for the type of riding I do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Downhiller
from newyork Date Reviewed: July 17, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
secret
Strengths:
price, power
Weaknesses:
modulation, lever feel
Similar Products Used:
hayes full hydro....avid mech disc
Bike Setup:
99 trek vrx400 w/ fox 'nilla pullin 5" in back, manitou x-vert t pushin 5" in front...full hayes hydros......the fender......wtb speeddisc rims.......ritchey tires......and lx drivetrain.....all this for under $800.... eat your hearts out when i coulda paid over $2400 retail for this setup hahaha
Bottom Line:
heres the deal.....my friends bike has this setup...........hayes hydros in tha back........dia-tech in the front..............i have used his bike several times......the hayes owns......hands down......but we all new that from the begining........the diatech does not own......but it puts up quite a performance.....they feel right together......not as nice as my full hayes hydros......but they feel similar.....modulation aint bad........stopping power is there in gobs......but it just doesnt feel correct....maybe cuz im used to hayes.........but these puppies are cheap!! buy em they are great from my experience.....their customer support is unreal!! make shure u buy canti levers tho
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alex G
a Weekend Warrior
from poole,uk baby! Date Reviewed: July 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
buckham rings
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
good dry power funky levers
Weaknesses:
THEY SQQQQQQQQQUEEK BAD!!! disc's warp real easy toooooo much drag they lock up under hard braking
Similar Products Used:
most v's, cantilevers, hope mini's
Bike Setup:
y2k Dr.Jeckyll, dia-tech, LX, halo, DNA, race-face next ip's etc...........
Bottom Line:
if they come with the bike then upgrade them to either hope or hayes.these are for riders who just want discs to keep out of harms way, or their rims are as bent as Brian from Big Brother.
other than that avoid at all costs, evan stx-rc v's are better!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yan
a
from in the east Date Reviewed: February 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
i posted a comment about that product not long ago, how come it has been deletd from the board? this and other product have their strong a weak point, if you guys delete postings, how could other find what is the best product in the brake system? that is a wrong impression and a false "Publicity" for products. if you keep all the higher chillis, you will only make things harder on yourself. i tested that product, i puted my comment on this board and you guys deleted it when it is actually no true that all you see ain't what you will get. so i'm asking to anyone that read this to do your research first before buying any product. for me it looks like that someone is cheating around the posting on this board. So for the last time, i did tested that diatech brake and all i kept having was problem. at that first time, everything seems to work wonderfully, but i found out that after several KM or about 200 km, the caliper refuse to move away from the rotor, when it is wet, water gets inside the mechanical parts of the caliper causing the caliper to lock on the rotor, the outer and inner pads do brake apparts (buy some spares) and the pins (occasionally) get crooked making the caliper really hard to take off the bracket and move away from the rotor. yes it is true that i thought at first that it was a great product, but after owning it for about 4 to 6 months, maintening it was just a joke after each ride. So all said was that i moved away from that product after several accident that occured with that disc brake and after almost a third front wheel that almost locked, i went to my local bike shop and i took everything off my bike and said to my friends "return it and i want a Avid disc brake and order it NOW!" and so he did. i'm now with Avid mechanical and this baby is the best. i have it for about 2 or 3 months now and i never touched it. it is stable, braking power is amazing, the look is kewl, the power is freaking awesome, maintenance is almost none 'cause it is fully sealled up, no more drag and i gave to Avid a load of Chillis. even 5 wasn't enought. i gave that brake a load of hard work, mud, snow, sand, hills and you name it and that brake never failed me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jennifer sider
a
from seattle, wa Date Reviewed: February 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
lite and easy/recreational
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
patient customer service
Weaknesses:
getting information on the Bicycle manufacturers side.
Similar Products Used:
regular canti brakes, vee brakes.
Bike Setup:
raleigh m800
Bottom Line:
problem on the Raleigh side, customer service there sucks. my dealer said to contact diatech direct. i did, got it all dialed now, and it only took me 5 min. the revised calipers are awesome. thanks EL MARKO. the guy should be training the industry on customer service. my son rides BMX, and i'm sure to get him DIATECH parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
René Bejarano
a Cross Country Rider
from Mexicali, Baja California, México Date Reviewed: February 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Centinela
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$598.00
Purchased At:
Included on Bike at Moutain Bike Warehouse S.D.
Strengths:
You don´t need a lot of streght on yor fingers to make this system work while braking at high speed, or going on a steep downhill.
Weaknesses:
Haven´t found one.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Very easy to maintain once you get all the technical information.
Bottom Line:
I´ve been riding cross country on the desert rough terrain for five years, an average of 11 miles on Saturday´s. It´s like doing baby steps while your using V-brakes. Once you tried them......you never want to go back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MC
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane Australia Date Reviewed: December 26, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Strengths:
Price, ease of setup, instructions, after sales service from Diatech USA
Weaknesses:
Recall of caliper, all fixed up now. Magnet that holds moving pad broke in many little pieces = pad not level with disc = poor performance
Similar Products Used:
RST, Formula, Avids, ProStops.
Bike Setup:
Haro 99 EX, 01 Z4 Flylight, Cane Creek AD5, Plasma rear & XT front, Plasma shifters and ODI lockjaws.
Bottom Line:
Bought kit of hub, Pro 9 levers and disc brake. Hub built up very well with Mavic 517 SUP. Levers worik great, dual mode setup. Disc brake was one of the recalled calipers. E-mail El Marco and 4 days later receive 2 brand new calipers, sickers and setup info tips. Excellent service from this company.
Couldn't get satisfactory performance from the front disc setup, the brake had to drag heavily to give any stopping power. Pulled caliper apart to check grease etc and found that the small magnet that holds the moving pad on was in little pieces and pad was at an uneven angle.
Replaced magnet from spare caliper and big improvement in setup and performance. No drag, good modulation and braking improving all the time. Use Brake Clean on pads and rotor = good braking.
Just need to get hold of some more magnets just in case.
This brake was 1/2 the price of the Avid setup and isn't that far behind in performance, so excellent value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua Wong
a Cross Country Rider
from Selangor, Malaysia Date Reviewed: December 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
Well its cheap, compared to other makes like Promax n RST
Weaknesses:
The braking feels lousy...(not as good as RST's) Don't know if its supposed to be this way, but the caliper doesn't spring back most of the time.(I think the spring used in this product isn't strong enough.
Bottom Line:
Just want to know if anyone could teach me to fix this problem(if it can be fixed).....or maybe get me someone to contact to help rectify this problem.
I think the product is ok for experienced riders, as the caliper doesn't spring back sometimes, causing your wheel to lock n slide. Could be dangerous if you are not careful !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hans
a Downhiller
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: December 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
This product has been recalled
Bottom Line:
Bike Recall
Two companies based in Washington state are recalling about 5,000 bicycles because of faulty disc brakes that can stick and cause crashes.
DiaTech USA of Kenmore, Wash., manufacturer of the brakes, and Derby USA of Kent, Wash., the importer and distributor, have received one report of a man who suffered broken ribs after losing control of his bicycle when the brake stuck, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday.
The brands and models of the recalled bicycles are Raleigh's M600, M800 and M8000; Diamondback's Zetec Comp and X-2; and Univega's DS950 and Alpina 700.
All the recalled bicycles are 2000 models, with ballistic spiral stop disc brakes labeled "DIATECH."
Raleigh, Diamondback and Univega bicycle dealers nationwide sold these bicycles from November 1999 through June 2000 for between $800 and $1,200.
The safety commission advises consumers to stop riding the bicycles immediately and return them to their dealers for free replacement of the front and rear brake calipers. For more information, consumers can call the safety commission at 1-800-638-2772 between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Downhiller
from Nanaimo, BC ,Canada Date Reviewed: December 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any in Vancouver
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction
Strengths:
Well, brake really Nice
Weaknesses:
just have to know how to set it up properly
Similar Products Used:
XTR V/brake and look at my last posting
Bike Setup:
look at my last posting
Bottom Line:
Well i thaught that i might let you guys know about some tiny little thing. if i have done it, some have also done it, but i don't see anyone that posted it here, so i'll do it. Do not put any grease of any kind on the uper rod (the one protected by a ruber) Put light grease on the bottom rod only to give the best and smooth clearance of the caliper from the rotor. thank god i had a spare caliper, but if you put grease on the upper rod, the chemical reaction of the grease and the ruber make the ruber to stick on the road instead of moving away or have a smooth clearance of the rotor. so don't do what i did. Put only light grease on the bottom rod (the black plastic) AND IT WORKS WONDERFULLY. Beleive me, my caliper is no longer sticking on the rotor and it doesn't have the little bird singing anymore. haha!!! =) AGAIN 5X2 Chillis for you guys Kai =)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Santiago Vera
a Weekend Warrior
from Santiago Date Reviewed: December 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
works well, good stopping (new calipers, replacing the faulty ones)
Weaknesses:
some bird sounds when riding uphill
Similar Products Used:
first disk brakes
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme EX2 2000
Bottom Line:
now it is time to say that these are great brakes, i am very pleased with them,(these are the new calipers, i received from Diatech , no charge, to replace the faulty ones), so is 5 chilis X 2
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai D
a Downhiller
from Nanaimo, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: December 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any in my region and Vancouver
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Chain reaction
Strengths:
- Once properly set up, it works wonderfully - Once properly worned out, it brakes wonderfully
Weaknesses:
takes a bit of time to adjust, take a bit of time to wear out until we get the full braking power
Similar Products Used:
XTR V-brakes and RockShox cable/Hydraulic disc brake
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche, 24 sp, Aluminum Frame, beautyfully set up with nice parts and customized painted front dual air suspension ...
Bottom Line:
Once everything are properly set up, Pads precalibrated for the rotor and tension on cable properly set up And don't forget to take off your v-brake setting on your brake lever. The Diatech Disc Brake works wonderfully. Even regreasing the inside of the caliper is easy to do, but make sure that everything are nice and tight once you are done working on it. A lose nuts won't be to pleasent. Rebuilding the caliper is easy and greasing the moving parts in the caliper is also easy to do. (Don't work on it if you don't know what you are doing, leave it to your bike dealer shop) I got my caliper about 2 or 3 months now, i did run with some problems, but i fixed everything and i set it up properly and the braking power is there, no matter what people say about this product, i say that this Diatech disc brake is working so nice and i test this brake everytime and everyday on downhill, mud, road racing, water, streams jumps and the disc brake never failed me. it always brake nice and firm and the complete stop time is also really good. =D In Conclusion, Diatech is the cheapest way to go and i'de like to thank El Marko for his support when i got my first accident with one of his diatech disc brake.
Everything are now working wonderfully, Thank you El Marko =)
Kai =) All the Chillis for you my friend
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Downhiller
from Nanaimo, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Morell Sanctuary and westwood lake
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Chain reaction (the realM)
Strengths:
Once properly tune up and you give it a good time wear on it and also properly adjusted, it works even better than V-breaks.
Weaknesses:
take a bit of time to adjust
Similar Products Used:
XTR V-brakes
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche, 24 speed, aluminum frame, customized painted front suspension Dual air SID Rock ShoX with a lot of ionized purple parts. everything has been carefully work so that my bike (Adrianna) work and looks good
Bottom Line:
Well i give a lot to El marko for his patience and honesty and quick response to my previous problem with the diatech caliper that seased up on me and cause a lot of damage to my bike and myself, but i forgive him. my bike is finally back on the road with everything new on her including ionized purple bar ends, computer is fixed, new tires, new front hub, new calipers (he send it to me, free of charge), new rotor (wasn't free of charge), new spokes, new front fender (dirt bike look "THE"). hehe my bike is finally back with me and i can ride her with an 100% performance. Thank you El Marko for your support, for this i give you all the chillis. =)
Hot hot hot... Kai =)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adry Alauddin
a Weekend Warrior
from Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Date Reviewed: November 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
a Lot
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
bike shop
Strengths:
Cheap,reasonable for the price , light, simple
Weaknesses:
Mine sticks after pullin hard on the brake lever.The caliper doesn't rebound ..and that causes my brake cable to come out ofthe lever stop..So who do i send an e mail to??
Similar Products Used:
XTR v- brakes , XT v's
Bike Setup:
nonebranded taiwaneese Y suspension bike with lx read derailluer, white industries crank, deore shifters and RST shox
Bottom Line:
Help me..i need advice on who to write to..and consideringg i'm in malaysia? HOW?
I'll give them and 4 chillies for price
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fernando Biagioni
a Downhiller
from Piracicaba/SP, BRAZIL Date Reviewed: November 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lizard Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
store in my city
Strengths:
El Marko support - I BROKE MY CALIPER AND I DIDN´T RECEIVE ANY. HE SAID HE HAD SENT THEM TO ME BUT I DIDN´T RECEIVE.
Weaknesses:
I could broke many parts
Similar Products Used:
Hydraulic Hayes, XT Disc, Magura Gustav, Louise
Bike Setup:
99 FSR XTR, RST delta XL
Bottom Line:
Well, I broke it within 2 months of use. Then, the first thing that I have done was sending an e-mail to EL MARKO to solve my problem. He said he was going to send me a new caliper and red pads. I´m waiting for 2 months already since his last e-mail. Last month I read in Mountain Bike Action something about DIATECH spiral stop disc brakes. They were all having problems and DIATECH were changing them. BUT, WAIT. I LIVE IN BRAZIL. EL MARKO SAID HE SENT ME ONE BUT I´M WAITING FOR 2 MONTHS AND I DIDN´T GET ANYTHING. HE SAID THAT HE HAD SENT BUT IT WASN´T A REGISTERED PACKAGE. HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT MORE? HELP MEEEEEEEEEEE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bradley Hale
a Weekend Warrior
from NSW Australia Date Reviewed: November 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mnts
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
dont squeek dont fade
Weaknesses:
not all that powerful stick after hard stops(dangerous-over the bars)
i took them back found out they had fualty calipers are currently being changed for formulas md1 (they may suck) looking at hayes. Get them if your not woried about power but need reliability (all weather) and ease of tuning.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Santiago Vera
a Weekend Warrior
from Santiago, Chile Date Reviewed: November 9, 2000
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Full Bike
Strengths:
i have to see them in action
Weaknesses:
i have the faulty brakes
Similar Products Used:
first disk brakes
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme EX2 2000
Bottom Line:
thanks to this page with these reviews, that i see that more people have the same problem with these brakes, and there was a solution. my brakes have the faulty spring, so they stuck , and scream like hell, i send a email to diatek@aol.com (11/02/00)the next day i received a confirmation to my email , and today (11/09/00) i receive in my office my new front and rear calipers, "cost=0", i am very glad about it. excellent customer support!!!!
i have to see them in action this week end, so i will comment the new ones. in a little time.
for the faulty brakes i give one chili, for customer support and hoping the new will be ok i give 5 chilis
regards
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Downhiller
from nanaimo,bc, canada Date Reviewed: October 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
a lot in BC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction
Bike Setup:
GT Avalache, 24Spd, XTR components, front dual air RockShox Suspension and repair are being done on her now
Bottom Line:
You are more likely to be right about this my friend below me. I'DE LIKE TO APOLOGIZE to Diatech for whatever i said previously about there product. i got impressed to hear from the head office of Diatech when they phoned me concerning my accident that i had with their product by having my caliper that got stuck. i'de like to take back whatever i said previously. i can say i got a bit pissed off by the accident, but everything is now ok. i just got my new calipers today, the hub is on it's way and the rotor is already at the shop and my sweet bike will soon be on the road at 100% the performance she had before the accident. my computer has been repaired and my new bar ends is also on it's way to my place. So bad things comes to good things. My Bike (Adrianna) will soon be on my website in the bike Hall of Fame as soon as she gets fully fixed with my brand new helmet that i got yesterday. Woohoo if you wish to have a look at her you can do so by going at http://www.adean.co.uk/~aqua/ then go into portfolio/pictures and click bike the Hall of fame link. my new and improved bike will be on at the end of November, but you can have a look the way she was last year and be ready to see her fully fixed up at the end of November.
I love you guys without you, my sweet bike would of been everything other than a gorgeous two wheels on the road. Now i'm the only person in town to have the most prettiest bike in town.
Keep on cycling and keep smiling, life is good =)
Kai
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pat
a Cross Country Rider
from attleboro Date Reviewed: October 14, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I already wrote a review for these brakes, but I thought this was worth adding.......I had a small problem with one of the rubber bushings, It tore and eventually fell off,I wrote el marko(diatech guy) about this problem,3 days later a rebuild kit arrived at my door,with all the parts I needed and some extras,they upgraded the bushings,I had an older style,the new bushing looks alot better.....CUSTOMER SERVICE DOESNT GET BETTER THAN THIS!!!!!
P.S. THIS GUY BELOW WHO HAD HIS BRAKES STICK ON HIM MOST LIKELY HAD THE CALIPERS WITH THE FAULTY RETURN SPRING,LIKE I SAID IN MY ORIGINAL REVIEW,MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CALIPERS WITH A LETTER STAMPED UNDER THE DIATECH NAME!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kai Docq
a Racer
from Nanaimo, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: October 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Doumont rd
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
chain Reaction
Strengths:
braking power is wonderful
Weaknesses:
sqeel like hell on dry condition, doesn't pull back from the rotor like it should, constent friction on the rotor
Similar Products Used:
Rock ShoX cable / Hydraulic disc brake
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche, 24 Speed, aluminum frame, Xt Hub, XTR brake lever, Dual air RockShox Front Suspension.
Bottom Line:
i'm staying away from this product. no offence, but i keep getting problem with those kind of brakes and almost cost my life yesterday on the october 4th 2000 when the pads got stuck on the rotor and locked the front wheel and i flew over my bike causing both wheels to get bent, the rotor got bent, a broken computer (speedometer) cateye enduro2 blue and a bar end that i just baught and they can make them anymore 'cause it is ionized purple colour. With myself with a lot of injuries. the bottom line is, i'm getting rid of those and getting a formula front disc brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pat
a Cross Country Rider
from attleboro Date Reviewed: September 30, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
nice stoppers
Weaknesses:
wait and see....if any
Similar Products Used:
rst machanical disc
Bike Setup:
diamondback x2
Bottom Line:
took 2 rides to bed them in,then they stop ya real nice,only weird thing is I clean'em with brake cleaner and they loose alittle bit of there bite,but it comes back 1/2 hour into a ride......make sure you get the calipers that have a letter stamped under the diatech name(they had a recal on'em)I love it when my buddies go through mud or puddles and then you can hear their v-brakes scratch'n away,they kinda feel like anti-lock brakes at high speed,and on slow tech.downhill stuff they got a nice bite.im using avid speed dial 1.9,get some gore cables with'em, talk about sweet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Buchanan
a Weekend Warrior
from San Angelo, TX. USA Date Reviewed: September 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Diatech
Strengths:
Surprisingly strong and durable. Great stopping force. Excellent product support. El Marko goes the extra mile to help you out.
Weaknesses:
None that I am aware of at this point.
Bottom Line:
I am not a cyclist. I needed a cable brake system for my ultralight airplane. I was able to adapt these brakes fairly easily. They stop better and (more importantly) are much smoother than my previous drum setup. I am very pleased. If they can stop a 250 lb. ultralight airplane with me in it, they'll stop your bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin Guimont
a Downhiller
from Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: August 28, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mt Ste Anne's world cup
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LePedalier on my bike...
Strengths:
GREAT customer service ! El marko's great, he tried everything to get my brakes working and they'll work now!
Weaknesses:
Maybe they're a bit heavy but I don't care I use my bike to jump and ride downhill trails!
Similar Products Used:
v-brakes, cantilevers,and u-brakes :)
Bike Setup:
Marin B17, Sun Mammoth rims, Michelin tires, Diatech disc brakes, pretty much stock...
Bottom Line:
Everyone thinks that cable discs arent good and they don't have enough power, but they didn't try them !I've got plenty of power and only ride my bike in ski centers and trails !
Why pay for hydraulics when youcan get cable disc brakes for cheaper, and get a perfect customer service! No waiting on the phone, fast e-mail service and a tech guy that knows what he's talking about!
Thanks Diatech
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MOJO
a Downhiller
from SEATTLE, WA. USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SNOQUALMIE/TIGER/ORCAS ISLAND
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
TECH SUPPORT/SOMEONE WHO KNOWS WHAT'S UP RIGHT AT THE MOMENT OF ANSWERING THE PHONE
Weaknesses:
A LITTLE HEAVY, BUT SO AM I.
Similar Products Used:
MAGURA RIM HYDROS/XT VEE BRAKE/HAYES(TOO EXPENSIVE TO MAINTAIN)
Bike Setup:
K2 DISCO MONKEY/ HOMEMADE SLALOM.
Bottom Line:
IT SIMPLE, GET THE INFO, IT'S NEW STUFF TO US CONSUMERS, AND DIATECHS GOT IT DOWN PACKED WHEN IT COMES TO PROPER, AND RAPID, INFO AND SERVICE. I WEIGH 195LB AND AMAZED THAT THEY STOP ME.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aki Korpela
a Cross Country Rider
from Tampere, Finland Date Reviewed: August 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Works nicely in all weather conditions.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT discs
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme EX2 2000
Bottom Line:
I first had problems with these brakes. I contacted Diatech, got some tuning tips, and still had problems. It turned out that my brake calipers were faulty. Updated calipers were sent to me (to Finland) free of charge from Taiwan and the delivery took only four days! Now my brakes work very nicely. There is nothing to complain. But the most impressive part was the Diatech's excellent customer service. It is something that I have never before encontered.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek Porter
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: July 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
They work - Well !!! Gone are the days of V's.
Weaknesses:
? are there any ?
Similar Products Used:
Why should I - these are Great.
Bike Setup:
Giant ATX 870 - 2000.
Bottom Line:
These must be the greatest breaks out. I rode a bike with V's later - it felt like I had no breaks. From now on I ride only with these. And the product support is 110 %. I asked El Marko to send me a manual ( Did not get one with my new bike ) and he mailed me one - all the way down to Africa. - Thanks for the cool stickers. It is a pleasure to do business with you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael lamarche
a Weekend Warrior
from MA Date Reviewed: June 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anything technical
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
excelent stopping power in both dry and wet and muddy conditions. Can screw up rims but still keep riding.
Weaknesses:
none.
Bike Setup:
2000 raleigh m8000
Bottom Line:
These brakes are excellent if they are set up and worn in correctly. My brakes worked excellent after a half hour of downhilling. I have had some problems with the rear caliper sticking but like any mechanical product, it is only as good as it is set up and maintained. I found it helpful to clean disks with brake cleaner after every couple of rides, and to keep calpiper mechanism and cables well lubed. All you guys with problems need to go to diatechs web page to get the proper setup and maintainance procedures. These brakes are definetly 10 times better than any linear pull system I ever used.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big G
a Cross Country Rider
from Southern California Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Everywhere on Earth - I can't get a ticket to anyplace else
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Question: Why do people always seem to sh*t all over cable actuated discs? Answer: They are IDIOTS. Have you ever talked to someone that had the hydraulics go out suddenly due to a yanked tube or a seal failure? Or have an air bubble develop due to heat? Sure, a cable can snap, but that is usually the fault of the rider not maintaining a vigilant attitude about caring for their bike – otherwise you would see it coming. NOT so for a hydraulic failure. Enough said about hydraulics. The Dia-Tek disc brakes are excellent. I have ridden other cable actuated discs, and the Dia-Teks have better modualation & feel. You’ll never go back to rim brakes! Use good cables, and most importantly, SET THEM UP PROPERLY! This includes PROPER BEDDING in of the pads, like any other disc brakes, including your car! If people are too stupid to set them up properly, then Darwin’s law should take over – get them out of the gene pool.
Weaknesses:
You will get spoiled by these brakes. The next time you ride a friends bike with rim brakes you will hate it! (obviously not the products "fault")
Similar Products Used:
Formula discs - sucked. Avid mechanical discs - sucked, but less than the Formula's. Hayes mechanical discs - better than the other two, but still not as good as the Diateks
Bike Setup:
A hodgepoge collection of bits & pieces, selected based on functionality only. NOT looks, price, weight, or status. Come on people, get a life!
Bottom Line:
Do you want to STOP? Or do you want to look cool or be a lemming like everyone else? (discs DO look cool, but that is not the point) If you want to stop, which is what brakes are for, then get yourself some of these babies. There IS a reason that they are coming standard on new bikes, and it is due to the price /performance ratio.
Who should buy these? People that are pragmatic and want a high quality product. Who shouldn't buy these: Idiots & "me to's" with more money than brains OR sense. This may sound like I work for DiaTek, but I do not. I am a happy customer that is tired of all the whimpering by low (mechanical) IQ people about a truly excellent product that I have found to be, well, EXCELLENT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Spangler
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: June 6, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Their disks and their affordable. Came standard with my 2000 Diamondback X-2 with Mavic 223 disk wheelset. Easier upgrade path to hydraulics if desired.
Weaknesses:
Helps to have some knowledge of how to set them up and maintain them.
Bike Setup:
2000 Diamondback X-2, standard for now.
Bottom Line:
Okay, there's a lot of info here and there about setting these brakes up but not all in one place. So I went to the source, El Marko! This way the poor guy can leave on time and go riding instead of answering the same questions many times over. Kudos to Diatech for a same day turnaround on my email! Wow!
Hope all is well when you get this small note. So, here you go. Welcome to DiaTechs cable actuated disc brake world. My name is El Marko, that ugly mug you see on the top of this page. If you should need any assistance, please feel free to contact me. Now, some tips on set up. Once the calipers are mounted on the frame, and the wheels all warm and fuzzy in the fork, and rear dropouts, you are ready for pad adjustment. Please set barrel adjustment on caliper and brake lever for adjustment in both directions. This is so you may take up or out the slack needed for proper adjustment. Now pre activate the caliper until you touch the rotor. Now let it off just a tad. At this point secure the cable to the caliper arm. The reason we pre adjust is to strengthen the spring tension in the caliper, and also give the lever a nice snappy reverse tension. Now, lets work on pad adjustment. Unlock the pad adjustment screw located in the middle of the caliper. (8 mm lock-nut, 2.5 mm adjust-screw.) At this point turn the adjust-screw until the pads touch. Now, we can do one of two things. Turn the screw back ¼ turn, as instructed. Or, you can leave the pads touching slightly so you can burn and compress the pads quicker. The last method is what I personally prefer. Compression and break-in period is about 6-10 miles. Last, but not least is housing flex. Just make sure to secure housing as close as possible to the caliper without activating it. Once the pads are compressed and ready, adjust the slack from the barrel adjuster on the caliper or lever to further add, and maintain spring tension. Well, there you go. Don’t forget to wear a helmet when testing our stuff. Oh, one more thing. Remember to set your levers in non V-brake mode. If you should have anymore questions please feel free to call, e-mail or fax us.
Success, and good health to all of you. El Marko
************************************************ But wait, THERE'S MORE. . .
Here are some maintenance tips that apply to almost all disc systems. If you should need further assistance please feel free to contact me. #1-800-433-1427 Diatek@aol.com
*clean rotors and pads frequently with rubbing alcohol, or automotive brake cleaner.
squealing brakes can be eliminated by the following. cleaning as mentioned above.
switch direction of rotor for one or two rides.
new pads sometime have hard edges, remove pad and file down the edges.
at the last DH race i noticed a lot of pros pouring beer on the pads to get them sticky.
(Personal Note: So that's why my braking performance declined when I moved out of the fraternity house!)
always check caliper and rotor mount bolts before each ride.
there you are John. please keep us informed on your progress. if you did not receive a manual, send me your address so i can get it to you.
regards, el marko
************************************************* By the way, I've been very pleased with the brakes, even with the Avid 1.9 levers (see other posts about this issue). A little TLC on the break in and they steadily increase their effectiveness, also very predictable. Haven't run into anything yet so have to give them a five, especially with the responsive turnaround by Diatech. Viva El Marko!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al Boneta
a Downhiller
from Parma Ohio Date Reviewed: May 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Vulture's Knob
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inexpensive disc brakes that work well in every condition. The tech suport is superior. El Marko does whatever it takes to sort out any problems that arise. These brakes feel alot like my Hayes, but cost a third of the price.
Weaknesses:
My bike came with Avid V-brake levers that weren't compatible with the spiral stop calipers. This was the fault of Diamond Back not Diatech. I do hate that the calipers slide off the mounts every time I take my front wheel off, but that's not a big deal.
Similar Products Used:
Formula MD-1 cable discs, rock shock (AMP) discs, Magura discs and Hayes.
Bike Setup:
2000 Diamond Back X-2.
Bottom Line:
If you're looking to get into Discs, without the expense and hassle of Hydraulics, get these brakes. These are the best cable discs I have tried and they are he best cable brakes I sell at my shop!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAVID MORALES
a Downhiller
from WASHINGTON Date Reviewed: May 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
SNOQUALMIE,NORTH SHORE
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
EASY TO MAINTAIN, ONCE YOU LEARN IT'S ALL GOOD. FOLLOW THE TIPS, BURN THE PADS. CALL EL MARKO IF YOU DON'T GET IT. IF YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW NOT TO DO IT, REFER TO MBA JULY ISSUE. THOSE LAME &*+#'S HAVE IT ALL WRONG.
Weaknesses:
NONE, OTHER THAN UNDERSTANDING THAT IT'S A NEW PRODUCT TO THE INDUSTRY SO GET ALL THE INFO RIGHT.
Similar Products Used:
HAYES, HOPE, MAGURA RIM BRAKES.
Bike Setup:
SANTA CRUZ SUPER 8, KONA ROAST
Bottom Line:
DON'T BE FOOLED, THEM BRAKES ARE REAL STOPPERS.
EDUCATE YOURSELF. PEACE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, North Carolina USA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any in Western NC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Easy to maintain; EXCELLENT PRODUCT SUPPORT; They're discs, baby! Wet, muddy riding is no problem.
Weaknesses:
Front caliper likes to slide off if front wheel is off the fork. At higher speeds, the front rotor sounds like someone is sharpening a knife. Front works better than rear.
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes, no other cable discs tried.
Bike Setup:
2000 Raleigh M600, Judy XC
Bottom Line:
The supplied Avid Speed Dial 1.9L levers are not the best, since they aren't cantilever compatible, like DiaTech recommends. I haven't switched the levers, but the brakes still stop great. El Marko, the product support man from DiaTech, is great! Go to www.diatechworld.com for contact info. I didn't get any service manuals for these when I bought the bike, so you'll want his advice on how to set them up. The shop also didn't tell me to bed in the pads, so be sure and do some light stopping at first, before you do any panic stops or skid steers. I've used these things at Tsali trails, and they worked great, but I've yet to use them on any extreme downhill runs (unless you count Winding Stairs Road at the Nantahala Gorge). My next upgrade for these will be Ride On Gore Tex cables for protection in wet conditions.
If you're a "free rider" or whatever (downhill, et. al.), these things are great: Not a lot of money, and better stopping than V-brakes. Of course, they aren't hydraulic brakes, but they are easy to maintain and aren't messy. They aren't light, so any weight weinies shouldn't even think about 'em. I give 'em 5 flaming mexiturds for value, because they were on an under-$900 new bike and they are better than V-brakes, I give 'em 4 overall, because even though they stop my 6'3", 265lb. butt, they take some tinkerin' to stop solid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from College Station, TX Date Reviewed: May 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Easy to take apart, set up and adjust
Weaknesses:
Floating caliper could use a c-clip to prevent it from falling off when you have a wheel off
Similar Products Used:
Pretty much have tried out all others
Bike Setup:
2000 Diamond Back X-2
Bottom Line:
No cable actuated brakes are going to have the feel of hydro's but they do have the power and the simplicity that anyone can work on them with standard tools. Tech support is top notch also.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danzen
a
from Kerby OR, USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any of the epic wilderness rides available in all directions from my front door
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Price Simplicity of Design Consistent wet or dry weather performance
Weaknesses:
Maintenance, perhaps, if you think there is something out there that requires none, i.e., you're clueless........I guess it could be booted a little tighter for better mud protection but hopefully that occur with future generations of the brake.....
Similar Products Used:
LX-V, XT-V, XTR-V, Hayes hydraulicdisc, hayes cable-actuated disc, Formula Hydraulic disc, Formula mechanical disc, Hope Hydraulic disc, Avid Arch Supreme, Avid Arch rival 40 & 50, Marinovative V, IRD Vee, IRD Widget, and on and on ad infinitum
Bike Setup:
Kona Chute, Marzocchi 100mm Jr. T, XTR, Diatech Discs and Hubs, Race Face cranks, Avid levers Fisher Gemini CRo-mo MTB Tandem, Marzocchi Z-4 Flylight Air 80mm fork, Diatech Disc and hub front, Xtr Vee brake rear, Avid levers, Xt everywhere else
Bottom Line:
Ok, so I've read all these reviews on this silly page and find that the level of thoughtfulness and coherency of argument is definitely lacking in a number of them, so here goes..... I've worked on bikes for a long time, in shops for almost two decades, on my own for three, for the Kona Factory Team and the Mapei-Kona team for two seasons, and raced MTBs for twelve of those thirty years, so her goes...The key is to follow the intructions and use common sense regarding maintenance. You have to use non-Vee type levers to get the correct amount of cable pull to the arm that operates the spiral ( a very accomplished mechanic can also work with a high-end adjustable lever like the Avid 1.9 dialed in for less pull). The Brits who had so many problems early in devolopment of this product seem to have been riding Marins which had the incorrect levers spec'd on them. The ones who took the time to call el Marko and learn the correct set-up techniques like the brake for the most part. Remember, this is a mechanically operated disc at half the price of Hayes hydraulics (roughly). It will have more friction than a hydraulic but I have been running mine for six months both on my tandem (295 lbs of combined rider weight plus 45 lb. bike) and on my hardtail DS/freeride bike and they certainly do stop!! Vastly superior to vee brakes particularly in the southern Oregon winter/red clay/slop or while hauling a tandem with a 50lb. BOB trailer down a 3000 ft. rainy mopuntain pass like I did last October. Once you've gotten the right levers, hook up your cable, stretch it out, retension the cable (this time lift the lever arm up just slightly toward the adjusting barrel to help the spring tension), and anchor it. That's for the new Spiral--if you have a pre-2000 Spiral, Just take the lever arm off with the small allen screw on the underneath side, and increase the return spring tension setting, just like you would a cantilever brake, there should be three settings in the old one. After anchoring the cable, loosen the 8mm locknut under the removable cap, turn the small allen in till the brake stops, and then back it off from a 1/4 turn to a full turn, depending upon how much throw you like in your lever (generally half a turn will do). And you should be dialed. BE SURE BED IN THE SHOES!!!!! One or maybe two easy rides will make all the difference with these brakes. Also, since friction will be an issue (as it is with any cable system, be it SIS or brakes), spending an extra couple of bucks on a teflon cable or a sealed cable system like Avid or Ride-On makes a lot of sense, I mean, let's use our heads here....My recommendation to the user is to maintenance the caliper about every fifty hours of riding use, maybe slightly more often in very extreme wet and mud conditions, but this generally true of ANYTHING, not just Diatech discs. This is a very simple mechanism---just have your local ace wrench take it apart, clean it, lube it with slick honey or some such light lube, and put it back together. It shouldn't take more than a half hour to an hour of shop time. Remember, 50 hrs. is 16-17 three hour rides, that's really quite a bit of riding and many of your other systems will need similar maintenance after such use and abuse. Even if you have only one bike, and ride every day, then brake maintenance wil become part of your monthly tune-up, AS IT ALREADY SHOULD BE!!! Remember---whenever you or someone else works on this brake, KEEPO THE SHOES CLEAN, even from fingerprints, if they become contaminated, soak them in dawn dishwashing deteregent, and scrub them down, and clean the rotor with alcohol (it works for me anyway). The performance of these brakes is definitely superior to vees and, though they require a bit more muscle to pull then a hydraulic, they stop almost as well at half the cost, as long as you follow these tips. I regularly ride 5-mile, 3000 ft. rocky, technical descents in the mud and I'm still here writing this review and going ridin' again tomorrow so 'nuff said........................Later, DZ
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
el marko
a Downhiller
from seattle Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
snoqualmie pass, hood mountain, north shore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
knowledge, cable actuated system are very new to the market. getting the right info is best.
Weaknesses:
this is something i try to keep from happening. it is also my job that it be eliminated to our customers.
Similar Products Used:
all, we must compare with the competition.
Bike Setup:
KONA STAB DELUXE FOR DH (THANK YOU WILLY AND GLEN @ KONA) K2 (EURO TYPE, BEFORE USA) FOR DS
Bottom Line:
CABLE ACTUATED DISC SYSTEM ARE STILL FAIRLY NEW TO THE MARKET. WE @ DIATECH ARE COMMITTED TO IT. WE ARE ONE OF THE FIRST OUT THERE TO GO FOR IT. I AM COMMITTED TO IT. I HAVE RIDDEN MANY O TRAILS WITH THEM, AND WE HAVE COME A LONG WAY. IF YOU ARE NOT HAPPY, GIVE ME A TRY, I WILL DO MY BEST TO MAKE THE BRAKES WORK TO YOUR SATISFACTION. 18004331427 OR diatek@aol.com peace
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hal Amick
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbia, SC, USA Date Reviewed: February 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Lynches Woods
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Work wet or dry. Smooth, short stroke. No grabbing.
Weaknesses:
Set up problems from the bike shop. They are new so call DiaTech... They are very helpful. He call me back to see how they were doing.. That is customer service!!!
Similar Products Used:
Must admitt... none
Bottom Line:
After having problems on my first ride I called the DiaTech help number and talked to Marco and he took care of everything and answered all my q's. I made the adjustments and have not been happier! He did ask me to change the levers to create a longer pull but I like them the way they are short and sweet. Break in is important so do it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee Nelson
a Weekend Warrior
from College Station, TX Date Reviewed: February 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Cameron Park, Waco
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Unbelievable customer support (thanx El Marko!!!!)
Weaknesses:
Crazy to set up.
Similar Products Used:
other assorted V-types.
Bike Setup:
Raleigh M600
Bottom Line:
Ok, I've read all of your complaints. The simple fact is that you people don't try hard enough to get these fabulous brakes to work. Here's whatcha do. Set them up with good quality, canti-style, levers. I used Avid 1.9's. The next thing is this. All of the adjustment should be done with the cables!!!! This is very important. If you try to make udjustments to the levers, you won't get enough power. Then undo the cap on the spiral, give it a nice squeeze until the pads touch the rotor and let out a quarter turn. (All this is in El Marko's new list, call Diatech for it) Don't practice your skidding skills right away. Give 'em some time. Another thing, clean the rotors regularly with rubbing alcohol (I use alcohol-based aftershave for that smooth feeling) this ends squeaks right in their tracks. The point is, you have to take your time and you have to use good levers. This is seriously worth it. Hydraulics are too much work, all that bleeding, and not very reliable...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Burns
a Weekend Warrior
from Cali Date Reviewed: February 11, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Crazy Pete's to Windy Hill Loop
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
El Cheapo Customer Support!
Weaknesses:
Take braking in and fine tuning
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, various V's
Bike Setup:
'00 Haro EX2 (came standard)
Bottom Line:
This is THE break for someone who knows about bikes and wants to upgrade from his V-brakes to something with a little more balls. When I first got these, I had a problem adjusting the front brakes, so I Emailed Diatech asking if they had any input. They then proceeded to send me a new caliper next day airmail! That aside, I got them tuned in and workin' great, and then I went biking in a downpour. The mud and water didn't effect the calipers, but the cable housing got filled up and I lost 70% of my braking power. Got home and sprayed out the housing and it was back. For 2000, Diatech has changed their levers, making them both V-brake and Disc-brake specific. I like these levers and braking ratios much better than my friend's Hayes. I read these reviews before buying my bike, and was fully prepared to disassemble my new brakes, but have yet to find the need.
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Submitted by
Jordan Atkinson
a Weekend Warrior
from victoria British columbia Date Reviewed: January 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
still havent figured that out
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
power is always working the same
i put a bigger disc on it
Weaknesses:
v brake lever
Bike Setup:
K2 flying mokey
Bottom Line:
This brakes is excelent when you switch to a none v brake lever I put a richey pro canti lever on it and the power and felling was 100 percent better it sucked with the v brake i suggest the other lever its a wsome brake and work well
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Submitted by
Bruno
a Downhiller
from Van Wa. Date Reviewed: November 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
My downhill backyard
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very cheap.
Weaknesses:
So cheap it can't work without non V-levers.
Similar Products Used:
99XT Vs 98XT vs Dia Comp Vs
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse prototype DH Machine w/Boxxer and rst rear shox and Deep V rimed wheels
Bottom Line:
If you are going to buy new brakes don't buy this one. It has a constipated time problem. But if you have plenty of time but not the bucks, this could be a very cool project. It did not even stop me when I had the pad on full hard The first day. I even ran into a tree the second day I installed it. I simple changed levers and pads. LEVERS and different PADS are the key to super stoping power beyond stupid V-brakes. My friend who uses Hayes thinks I have a better front brake than his.
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Submitted by
Courney
a Downhiller
from G.a. Date Reviewed: November 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any that go straight down
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
PRICE!!!!! Dont lose power when the weather gets rough Price!!! Coustmer service!!!!!
Weaknesses:
A little hard to get setup at first
Similar Products Used:
lx v,s xt v,s Magura race lines
Bike Setup:
99 fsr rst dealta hl......bla bla
Bottom Line:
A great brake that is affordable yet works very well.The thing i love most is the way they take care of their coustmers!!! I wrote them and just asked for a hayes adaptor, they sent me a whole caliper and some pads{not the cheap ones either}and some stickers.Try to match that service!!!!!
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Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Wellington Date Reviewed: August 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
belmont trig
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Low Price, high performance potential, low maintenance (none so far), trick look
Weaknesses:
Minor;heavier than rim brakes (probably). Need to take extra care while transporting wheels (don't bend the rotor. Takes at least two easy rides to wear them in.
Similar Products Used:
Non-parallel LX v's, Cantis, bottom-end magura hydraulic rim brakes
Bike Setup:
Klein h/tail, Z1 drop offs, riser bars, hals susp seatpost. (My idea of a freeride h/tail!)
Bottom Line:
This review is for the disk and hub only, as you will want to play with different levers to get the right power/feel. I tried setting the LX (servo wave) levers to max power and there really wasn't any increase in stopping power over the V brake -but they're not shimano's best levers lets face it. However, that is not the end of it. Even with those stumpy levers you still get smooth action and progressive power. Not scraping sounds and iffy feel. Plus, as the dealer will tell you, YOU MUST BED THESE SUCKERS IN. No panic stops to try them out straight after installing them. Take a day or two to do a couple gentle descents with the brake applied lightly. This is essential.I have since added a new lever and wow what a difference. Don't ask me what it is, it was out of the $10 bargain bin, (they were for long arm cantis I think) but it has a long blade with plenty of cable pull, and that's what you need. Now, I feel like I am just tightening a vice when I pull on the front brake. Very reassuring, progressive (like maguras) and ultimately plenty of real world power (like V's). I can't comment, as others have, on their ability to haul overweight underskilled downhillers to a stop from 70 mile p/hr descents, but they will do me. Bolted straight onto a Z1 I can do all my stopping with the front brake and use the old LX V to make last minute rear end steering corrections. Huge fun. Add in the ability to drop out the front wheel for transport without touching the brake plus obvious benefits in mud (over ANY poxy rim anchor) and you have a very handy product.Bottom bottom line, if you are sick of forever replacing your rim brakes after every other dirt ride (esp in winter) and you are at the point of needing a new rim/hub anyway, get a disk. Chances are your local Marin BS will have one spoked up on a rim ready to go. Happy trails.
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Submitted by
Brandon
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rolla Date Reviewed: July 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Castlewood
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inexpensive, Easy Set Up
Weaknesses:
Finish
Similar Products Used:
Shimano LX, XT, & XTR V-brakes
Bike Setup:
XT/XTR Schwinn with 99 Judy XC
Bottom Line:
These brakes work great if they are set up properly. Obviously these other guys don't know how. I used a heavy duty cable with a little rub on the rotor and they stop great.
$
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