Full Hydraulic: Four-piston caliper offers superior modulation and braking power. Includes Inox stainless steel hydraulic brake hose and an alloy lever with reservoir. Complete system comes fully bled and ready to ride. Supplied with 160mm rotors front and rear. 292 grams for a front caliper, lever and housing.
Submitted by
Dennis Semik
a Downhiller
from Bensheim, Germany Date Reviewed: September 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Meli
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Brake point and power with little finger power
Weaknesses:
does not fit very well with SRAM trigger (older version, I have 3 of these), IS2000 (instead of PM), fade a little on long runs
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX 9, Magura Luise, Magura Julie
Bike Setup:
Used on a KHS AM-1000 and a Rocky Mountain Thin Air. Both completely custom built
Bottom Line:
These brakes work just great. Two of them are with 160mm discs and one with a 180mm. Bleeding is not a hole lot of fun, but that applies to all hydrolic brakes. As written bellow, when using the torque recommendations there is no problem with them breaking. The bleed skrew does not have to be very tight! I use them with Kool Stop pads and they never failed. Just fade a bit on longer runs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cole
a Downhiller
from vancouver Date Reviewed: July 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
pinkbike
Strengths:
Okay stopping power excellent modulation
Weaknesses:
squeak, leak oil from everywhere, the bolts on the bleed cap stripped so i couldn't bleed them
Similar Products Used:
Avid juicy 5s (great go buy these) shimano hydros (also good too) and shimano mechs
Bike Setup:
kona stinky, swinger 4 way juicy 5s
Bottom Line:
these brakes are okay, they don't have the really strong stopping power that my juicys have, i would think 4 pistons would be a little bit more powerful. Don't bother with these, i have had only trouble with them, they leak oil from the caliper and lever, the bolts ont he bleed cap strip so i couldn't bleed them. go buy some juicys or something from shimano instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bengt Karlsson
a
from Stockholm, Sweden Date Reviewed: February 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$145.00
Purchased At:
Disk Clinic Finland
Strengths:
Incredibly powerfull brakes. Exellent power modulation and lever feel. Hose fitting feel and look very strong. Hose does not scratch the frame because it is braided. Price/quality is excellent.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Hayes, Hope
Bike Setup:
Dabomb XLR8, 05 DJ2.
Bottom Line:
Good brakes with lots of power and they are even cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Stromberger
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Stop very well, easy to install, easy to bleed, great modulation, look friggin' cool!
Weaknesses:
Can be squeaky at times
Similar Products Used:
Hayes (howled like a sick goose and didn't stop worth crap)
Bike Setup:
2001 Jamis Dakar Pro, XTR, Race Face, yadda yadda yadda....
Bottom Line:
After 2+ years of use these have never given me a problem. I weigh 240 lbs. and these brakes never complained, I can always bomb down the most technical drops with utmost confidence. Everyone that says "you can't turn your bike upside down with these brakes" obviously doesn't know how to bleed these brakes properly. All you have to do is push down and "burp" the rubber gasket before you put the master cylinder cover back on. This prevents any air from entering the system. I flip my bike upside down all the time to oil my chain and have never had a problem. Buy em! They rock!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doru
a
from Boston Date Reviewed: July 22, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
himalaya bike shop - bucharest, romania
Strengths:
Reliable. Got mine second hand, together with my bike, and I biked for >10.000 miles so far. They only needed servicing every 4.000 miles or so - bleeding and changing the plates. That means, they didn't need service for years, even though I biked more than 15 miles per day, through snows and extreme hot days!
Weaknesses:
Bleeding screws easy to break. However, even with the bleeding screw broken, I could perfectly bleed the front caliper. In very hot days, the fluid can expand and gently press the disk, causing a slight brake. That might also happen during extreme rides, due to the extreme heat released when braking.
Take care of them and they WILL take care of you. Trusty, reliable, effective.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rey
a Weekend Warrior
from Jersey City, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: June 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Hartshorne, Chimney Rock
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came stock with my bike
Strengths:
Nice smooth feel, Stop in a dime(when it works).
Weaknesses:
Leaks from the reservour(looses power), Hard to find replacement parts
Similar Products Used:
My first Hydro brakes
Bike Setup:
KHS FXT Pro(full suspension), Rockshock Sid 100 fork, Romic shock rear, ChrisKing headset, Raceface handlebar/stem/seat post, Koobi Xenon saddle, Truvative crank, Sun Single track weel/Shimano XT hub,Kenda Charisma Tire.
Bottom Line:
My front disk brake works great(for over 2 years no maintenance needed just change brake pads this year) but my rear disk brake has been troublesome. Had been bled so many time due to lost power, it's now leaking by the reservour and I also damage the screw. I just change the rear break with Avid Mechanical Disk yesterday and will try it out tomorrow. I bought this break due to great reviews by other riders and also I'M TIRED OF FLUID LEEKS!!! and maintenance. Look for my review on the Avid Mechanical in a the near future. The Grimeca System 8 came with my bike, it works great when it works but when it doesnt like my reak leaking during my last ride(lost 80% of breaking power) I end up on a ditch cause my front break did all the stoping. I'll give it 4 chills for stoping power when it works but overall 3 chills due to problem I had with this break.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great stopping power, easy to bleed and adjust, easy to get parts (use the shimano XT 756 or SRAM for extras)
Weaknesses:
Fades quickly on Downhills (6" rotors)
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Deore cable, Suntour V
Bottom Line:
These are some of the best brakes i have ever tested, excellent if you are not going down a massive downhill (System 12 required ;)) The people with the broken bleed screws, first understand what "torque" means. It doesnt need 50lbs/foot! Second, going to the local AutoZone/Home Depot its called a Easy Out. Parts are easy to find, just go to your LBS and ask for the Shimano XT 756 or SRAM parts, its all the same! Recommend to anyone!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a
from Pasadena Date Reviewed: April 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
el prieto
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Came with the bike
Strengths:
Great modulation. Wouldn't trade them for anything when they work.
Weaknesses:
Can't trade them for anything when they don't work. Takes a minor miracle to get them repaired.
Similar Products Used:
Formula mechanical discs
Bike Setup:
Titus Switchblade, XT drive train, Rolf hubs and rims
Bottom Line:
Several local shops are refusing to repair them anymore. I am now an offical member of the "half the broken off bleed screw in my hand, half embedded in the caliper" club. If you don't have 2 bikes and work for the factory, I'd look elsewhere. I do, I don't and I am.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Igor
a Weekend Warrior
from Lynn, MA Date Reviewed: January 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
High quality, Excellent modulation/lever feel, Comfy lever and nice looking caliper, Stainless steel lines with soft outing.
Weaknesses:
If it's red, paint strips easily like with any other DOT fluid. Cannot turn bike upside down
Similar Products Used:
Hayes (SUCK!) Magura Clara (good) Magura Louise (very good)
Bike Setup:
BigHit with MonsterT, System12 and System8 brakes.
Bottom Line:
Great brakes for the buck. LEARN HOW TO PUMP brakes people who have problems! If you buy them, make sure that the bolts on the lever that hold top cover have flat head. Easy to install, setup. 4 chiilis cause you can't turn the bike upside down. Just to give you an idea: I pump my brakes about once in 2 months (I enjoy doing that, it's my hobby!), and completely change fluid once in 6-8 months.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Billy Wraga
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens Ga Date Reviewed: November 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
My friends mountain house
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Incredible stopping power for the price I paid. Cool red paint.
Weaknesses:
In the georgia heat the rear caliper locks up, evan after being re-bled by the local shop pros, twice! Rides well in winter though.
Similar Products Used:
pathetic Shimano Deore mechanical discs
Bike Setup:
2000 limited edition shwinn mesa disc with my on cutom build including Chris King hubs, and headset XT drive train, Marzocchi air fork
Bottom Line:
I think that my rear caliper could just have a factory defect because the front stops like a dream. If you've never tried disc brakes, then i recomend these. I think most disc brakes are the same its all just personal preference. Or maybe I'm just crazy. Oh well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Sheffield / South Yorshire / ENG Date Reviewed: October 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came on the bike / James JE Cycles
Strengths:
Easy to Bleed, looses heat well and very responsive. These brakes have great stopping power particularly for those steep, tough and technical downhill sections. All round performance impressive, good design but most of all judging by the performance they are good value for money.
Weaknesses:
Tends to rub occasionally but only on the front caliper. Despite several attempts to solve this I’m still non-the wiser, can anybody help?
Bike Setup:
Claud Butler - Olympus, XT gear set, Grimeca disk brakes, Vuelta USA XPR Aero Plus wheels (Bomb Proof, Even tried and tested by driving over them in my car, not even a scratch) Sella Italia saddle, Thomson Elite seat post, Rock Shox Judy XC folks, next to be changed but quite impressed for the price, Easton bars, Intergrated Cane Creek ZST headset and Thomson stem.
Bottom Line:
Over all im pretty impressed with the all round performance of these brakes over any terrain, steep, flat, rough or technical. These brakes have saved my bacon on many occasions but have almost killed me several times too. I still plan on getting some Hope, but I shall be putting these on my girlfriends just in case I want them back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pete
a Downhiller
from christchurch Date Reviewed: August 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
fire brakes/dazzis track
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
chain reaction cycles
Strengths:
pre blead, damn easy to mount, cheap pads
Weaknesses:
small amount of rubbing, a frend of mine with the same brake found that the extender for a 200mm bracket placed the caliper to close to the rotor, short cable if i had bigger forx it wouldnt fit
Similar Products Used:
hope m4
Bike Setup:
scott jump bike hard tail / mazzochi dirt jumper3's
Bottom Line:
good brake in action and disapates heat real well but coming from v's OH MY GOD YES
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jdl8r
a Cross Country Rider
from sanD Date Reviewed: August 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great feedback and stopping power...
Weaknesses:
Mechanical expertise and maintenance
Similar Products Used:
Shim
Bottom Line:
First off - most mtb riders don't know much about hydraulic brakes [take this from a X-motoX-er]. These brakes are fantastic at stopping - provide incredible feedback and are quality built.
However, they are less durable then a pair of standard pad brakes AND require some knowledge and mechanical ability.
Without proper bleeding - the brakes won't work. Without regular bleeding and/or maintenance - they'll weaken over time.
So if you have the know-how - these are fantastic brakes for the bling. Otherwise stick to diapers and standard pad brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcu Bogdan
a Downhiller
from Romania, Bucharest Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Babele-Sinaia
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
Very good brake power, good design .
Weaknesses:
The air bleeding screw broke , cable leek, and the lever eventualy broke .
It is a good brake when it works ... the problem is that they broke very easyly ... the bleeding screw is a nighmare, i`ve seen about 3 brakes from grimeca with the same problem. Buy anything else if you plan to use it for longer than 1 month.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jubjub
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth, Australia Date Reviewed: June 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
entrepreneur
Strengths:
cheap to buy, look good.
Weaknesses:
No power, hard to find & very expensive parts, leaks, flimsy......all bad really.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Hope, magura
Bike Setup:
i-drive, psylos, XT, magura GustavM
Bottom Line:
If someone offers you these, just walk away. Parts backup is non existent in Aust- I finally gave up when the flimsy bleeder screw snapped in the caliper body. Owning and maintaining these brakes are like a migrane which never ceases.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pablo
a Cross Country Rider
from So. Cal. Date Reviewed: June 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Once problems were resolved (see below) the brakes seem to work well. Comfortable levers and modulation feel. Brake pad replacement is easy, and once the calipers are lined up, no brake adjustment has been needed.
Weaknesses:
Initially there were many. Brakes came on my bike, and the brake fluid was leaking from the levers, causing the paint to peel off. Additionally, the rear caliper was slightly leaking fluid from the bleed screw. I sent the brakes back to the distributor (Vuelta) and the levers were replaced with newer versions which have not leaked or caused me any problems. (yet?) However it took an email to the manufacturer (in Italy) to get the distributor to replace the rear caliper. (this took time and caused frustration). To be honest, I'm not sure how much better they are, or are not, from V-brakes, since I went from an old bike with cantelever brakes to these disk brakes. (never really rode much on V's). That said, if they aren't any better than V-brakes, probably don't need the extra weight, and potential headache.
Bike Setup:
KHS Team ST (great frame)
Bottom Line:
While disk brakes look pretty sexy, I spent a lot of time dealing with the distributor/manufacturer trying to get the brakes to a satisfactory level. Since getting the brake issues resolved, I have not had any problems to speak of and have been satisfied. (I hope it stays that way)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CrazyFred
a Racer
from Wyckoff, NJ Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
pedrofest
Strengths:
These brakes are crazy cool because they look crazy and they stop crazy and they modulate crazy and they are well........crazy
Weaknesses:
I will admit they are crazy weak. I do not believe they are the same as shimano XT because they use different fluid (crazy) and anyone who is even a little detail oriented can look at both brakes and determine that there are several subtle differences in the casting. I may be wrong, but I challenge anyone to provide EVIDENCE beyond a casual observation.
Similar Products Used:
Magura Clara (crazy unreliable)
Bike Setup:
Crazy Cannondale w/ lefty MAX, super crazy xtr stuff, lp crazy composite riser bar,
Bottom Line:
I'm upgrading to crazy XTR because these stoppers are crazy heavy. They leaked crazy DOT3 brake fluid and the paint was stripped off the levers (crazy uncool). I you ride crazy fast and NEVER crash than these brakes are for you because they performed crazy awesome super. But, beware because if you crash your brakes will be crazy broken. Three crazy doodies
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick P
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: May 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
DIRT!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Stoping power is there on tough technical decents and just about any where else.
Weaknesses:
Not sure yet.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, Grimeca 8 disc, Bontrager-Race cranks,wheel set,seat,riser bar. Rock Shox Phsylo sl front, fox float rear. XTR rear XT front derailer. Easton50 stem, BackWoods Panaracer tires, Time pedals.
Bottom Line:
You know I really can't say if they are the best or not. All I know is that they came with the bike after not wanting them on the bike cause all I really wanted was LX V brakes. It so happened that they sold me the bike with them on it and I haven't had a complaint yet. I have a Cannondale hard tail with LX V brakes on them from 96 and they stop me just the same in any conditions. The difference is the feel and that they are newer. I love them and hopefully they love me. They look great and you know I wouldn't have it any other way!.....Ride Hard Or Go Home, No Babies Aloud!...I gave it 4 Chilis cause I really haven't tried enough to give it a full 5 all around!, Now Go RIDE like HELL!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Wing
a Downhiller
from ColoradoSprings, co, usa Date Reviewed: May 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
pipeline
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
cheap, easy to bleed
Weaknesses:
everything. I've had 4 of these brakes, plus my friends have had them.ive gone through 2 levers, one cable and a rotor, all over lame-ass crashes
Similar Products Used:
hayes, avid mech.
Bottom Line:
These brakes are cheap crap. they can't handle crashes, dont even work when they arent broken, and have no accesories if you do break them. don't waste your $$$ and buy anything else but grimeca
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Apes Crew
a
from NYC Date Reviewed: March 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
When they work, they are great. But they never work.
Weaknesses:
EVERYTHING! I have ridden them about 6 times and once on dirt. Problems from the get go; the cylinders leaked in shipping requiring an immediate rebleed. This also stripped the paint off the lever/cylinder bodies. The front brake worked fine at first, then I rode dirt and the damn thing was fuct! Tried to bleed it myself so that I could avoid another $30 charge to have someone else do it and the screws stripped out! Rear brake managed to consistenly rub against the disc from day one. ALso the lever feel was terrible, as if there was no sort of return spring. Plus it faded super fast. I hate these brake, they are one of the more subpar products I have ever used in my life.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bottom Line:
Screw'em
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel
a Weekend Warrior
from Canada BC Date Reviewed: January 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
John Henry
Strengths:
The hose is pretty tough
Weaknesses:
The entire system. These are not brakes, these are a joke. Over a period of 1 month I've, bled them 8 times, replaced the lever 3 times (kept breaking, first time it was due to a crash, after that.. it seems it was programmed to break), replaced the adjuster pin barrell in the lever (I dunno what its called) 4 times. It kept stripping out .. weak material. Finaly .. the bleed screw snapped off.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing is as crappy as this product
Bike Setup:
setup on a 02 Launch. Purchased frame only and built it up.
Bottom Line:
If your looking to throw away some cash on crap then I would suggest Grimeca. If you've got money to spend then go with Hope or Shimano, Hayes too. Please .. for the love of God, DO NOT waste your money on Grimeca Disc brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gabriel
a Downhiller
from San Jose, Ca, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: December 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mailbox
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
seattle bike supply
Strengths:
Very Good Modulation,Not as hard hitting as hayes, Comfortable feeling, Easy to change pads,
Weaknesses:
NOT SO EASY TO BLEED.Bleed screw can break off inside caliper
Similar Products Used:
HAYES
Bike Setup:
cannondale sv500, marzocchi Jr.T, azonic bars, stiffy stem,fox float RL, grimeca disk brakes,XTR rear derailler,MRP guide system,raceface right side crank,xt left side crank(broke left raceface crank)
Bottom Line:
great if you buy in pairs,at $220 for both of them including the hoses, the fluid, the rotors,At least I bought them together other wize I would have gotten XT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: December 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Moab Rim
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Nice modulation, Easy to set up, Easy to change pads
Weaknesses:
Squeal, No more powerful than V-Brakes, Rapid pad wear, weak lever, hard to bleed, can't store bike upside down, rotor warps easily, SQUEAL horribly loud when wet.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes Hydro, Hope M4, Deore Hydro, Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
Diamondback XR4 with Psylo Race
Bottom Line:
I've had a love/hate relationshipd with these brakes. I like disc brakes because they work consistently no matter how dirty or wet your tires and rims. The Grimeca's were my first disc brake. I like the way they look and it is fun to have something a little bit rare. However, when you break your lever off in your first crash, you will not be so happy about the exclusivity. At least now there is a good website that has parts http://www.trident-sports-usa.com/generic15.html I had to wait 6 months (reinstalled V-brakes) before I found somebody who could help me get the exact parts I need. I also was able to completely wear out a set of brake pads in 1 weekend at Moab. Pads get pretty expensive if you're buying them every week. I gotta say, that Hayes is the way to go, every shop stocks parts and the pads last a lot longer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
S. Mann
a Weekend Warrior
from Cali Date Reviewed: December 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anytrail that my wife is not on
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$165.00
Purchased At:
www.trident-sport-usa.com
Strengths:
This review is for the system 12
Weaknesses:
How much time do you have? stainless steel fittings will snap like a pretzel, poor instructions at best
Similar Products Used:
Hayes hydros w/ 6" rotors
Bike Setup:
Giant Ds1 warp, race face cranks, rock shock phsylo, Grimeca (Vuelta) DH wheelset
Bottom Line:
To be fair, I belive that Grimeca has adressed many of the problems that the system 8 had. For instance, I didn't feel like I needed to bleed the brake out of the box. The only thing that they failed fix, is the pretzel hose they use. On a steep, rocky hill, I went over the bars (at a very low speed) and the bike flipped over to the side, twisting the handlebars around. When I picked up my bike, the cable was snapped at the banjo fitting next to the resivor. So basically, the weight of the bike was enough pressure to snap the line. I couldn't belive it because it was such a lame crash, I wouldn't even call it a crash. I went back to web site that I bought the brake and they contacted the tech rep in California. He said that basically it was an installation issue,(or my fault) Here is the email I got: (trident-sport-usa)I told you that I would check with the head tech man at the Grimeca importer (Vuelta USA) in CA. Here is what he has to say:
(grimeca tech)To be honest, it does not sound like a warranty problem; this is the first time I have heard of this type of product failure. This tends to indicate that installation is the most likely cause of the product failure. Typically, rear brake hose length is 1500 mm or so, and the brake lever is installed at about a 45-degree angle (relative to a flat surface); the banjo fitting at the master cylinder/brake lever runs out in a (more or less) straight line from the lever and riders or mechanics usually carefully adjust that fitting by slightly loosening the hollow fitting bolt and moving the hose angle up/down as needed, and not by very much, because the lever angle can be adjusted instead. The hose, its fittings and mount bolts are stainless steel.
All that considered -- and the fact that we have some pro downhill teams that use System 12 without having this type of problem -- it bears repeating how unlikely this kind of product failure is. This is, of course, not what the customer wants to hear. But, unless there's proof otherwise, this is the only conclusion I can come to.
(I felt like asking him if he had ever heard of MTBR.com!) of course if you can figure out anything he just said, the fist question I have is why isn't that in the instructions? (because it's not)
So anyway, its $50 for a new hose from them. But, there is good news, a sales rep for Jensonusa.com named Scott, told me that Grimeca brakes are the same as Shimano so I could purchase a new hose made by shimano and it would work. The best part is that the hose cost 9.95 and it is stainless steel braded.
The bottome line after all that, If I had my $165 again I would have bought Hayes. The people at trident-sport-usa.com have exellent costomer service, (and they sell more than grimeca) but I would'nt sell grimeca, their products and their customer service are grim at best. (This season I also purchased a set of their DH wheels with cool anodized red rims, and the rear hub is gone!) 1 season!!!!NOT COOL!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MATT
a Downhiller
from DILLION CO USA Date Reviewed: November 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Will absolutly stop you!! Great modulation, great lever feel, and despite what you think the feel is very adjustable. Rotors in 160,180, and 200mm
Weaknesses:
The first realeases had some master cylinder leakage, the company has since redesigned it and it is improved.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Hope, formula, avid, and shimano
Bike Setup:
Tomac 204, Boxxer, Pofile cranks, Nokian tires, Thomson, Mavic.
Bottom Line:
BUY THESE BRAKES!!!! They will give you plenty of power, feel, and trouble free service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dex
a Weekend Warrior
from central valley,ca. Date Reviewed: October 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$210.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
modulation,weight and price!
Weaknesses:
crashed one time the 90 degree connector on the lever broke loose brake fluid leaked all over and i didnt have brakes!
Similar Products Used:
nona
Bike Setup:
souped up super v
Bottom Line:
all in all a good product never lost power under normal mechanical working order been using it in light downhill runs no problems for the whole time i had it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arik
a Downhiller
from Arcata Date Reviewed: October 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
couch, sunny brea, red gate
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
jensonUSA (these guys rock)
Strengths:
Very good modulation great power can be upgraded easily and cheeply to 8inch great lever feel you can get EBC pads for them
Weaknesses:
factory blead job (Oh friggen no!!) none other
Similar Products Used:
hayes, shimano XT
Bike Setup:
GT avalanche, rockshox psylo sl, grimeca sys 8 with 8inch front rotor, XT, answer bar, mavic wheels
Bottom Line:
Set them up right. If you dont know how or dont have the time have a bike shop do it. bleed them when you first get them. after that they are an incredible break and still send me over the handlebars. they dont fade on downhills and dont have a squeek problem like the hayes. same thing as XT's so if you like the environment and have more money there ya go. I would buy these breaks again. I love them, they are my best friends
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gaylen Gurr
a Cross Country Rider
from St. George Date Reviewed: September 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
green valley loop
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$275.00
Purchased At:
bicycles unlimited
Strengths:
modulation, good stoping power, no fade
Weaknesses:
brake fluid eats paint
Similar Products Used:
hayes mechanical
Bike Setup:
canondale raven sl 1000
Bottom Line:
after the bike shop set this breaks up they have worked great. have not had to rebleed them and only had to change pads once. they are so much better than my old hayes mechanicals i can't believe the difference. it's important though to have a mechanic you trust to set them up right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jaggi
a Weekend Warrior
from EU Date Reviewed: August 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Bike-box
Strengths:
Power,price,good hoses,easy to bleed and adjust.
Weaknesses:
None so far,maybe bit heavy?
Similar Products Used:
Deore mech,magura julies
Bike Setup:
xc-hardtail
Bottom Line:
Good value disk brakes,why do you need more? Four chilis for overall,cos im sure there are better brakes outthere,five for value!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Hamilton
a Downhiller
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: August 27, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anything gravity propelled
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
on a Rocky
Strengths:
Product is 'XSIV' identical to Grimeace sysy 8 Works well, stops when you want to stop, loves abuse, no fade even when glowing - smells abit though. Same pads as shimano. One finger is all you need ( so the wife says) to do the job. Look good
Weaknesses:
None, although hydro pipe routing a bit scruffy and open to those intruding branches
Similar Products Used:
Hayes mechs, RST mechs and hayes on a fisher
Bike Setup:
Stndard Rocky Mountian slayer - if you could call it that !
Bottom Line:
Does what a brake should - this is throw you over the front when you pull hard enough with the magic finger
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sigmund Jakhel
a Cross Country Rider
from Slovenia Date Reviewed: August 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
CUK (LBS)
Strengths:
- Consistent braking power - No overheating (and I'm 210+ lbs) - Once bled properly you can forget about maintenance
Weaknesses:
- Bad factory pads front (better with EBC) - Bad factory bleed job
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HMX-1 mechanical disc, XTR and XT V's
Bike Setup:
Scott FX-3 frame, Bomber MXC Air fork, LX shifters & derailleurs, SRAM 7.0 cassette, Deore Cranks, Grimeca hubs, Vuelta rims.
Bottom Line:
Update to my review of may 28th:
The brakes have withstood more then 1300 km of riding, of which is a balanced mix of 1/3 flat, 1/3 uphill, 1/3 downhill, mostly on hardpac, but also forrest roads (fire & logger's roads).
They have NEVER failed me and I am quite satisfied with them. I had to change the front pads , as the stock pads were obviously oil-contaminated from the shop (lamerz...), and I chose EBC Green Stuff - excellent!
In a fall I have broken off a bolt that holds the hose to the lever, and could not get a replacement locally, so I got a Shimano XT bolt. Remember, you can interchange all metallic parts with Shimano XT.
I had also tried the 200mm rotor in front, which is great, as I (because of personal preference, riding style, and weight) never have enough braking power. The problem is that it requires a 20mm axle fork, which is on my purchase list for next season, so I went back to 160mm rotors. Otherwise I would destroy my fork.
Overall rating: Excellent value for money. they work and stop even bear-heavy kamikaze types (105kg, 50-70 km/h downhills on 12-15% slopes), but they do require a good bike mechanic and a tech savvy user. They are definitely not out-of-the-box ride ready, as they need to be bled, and shimming (to get no rotor drag) is a one-time nuisance. If you intend to maintain them yourself, get the Vuelta bleed kit, since it simplifies bleeding massively.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ian
a Racer
from peterborough, uk Date Reviewed: August 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
woodston cycles
Bike Setup:
muddy fox team descent, custom build
Bottom Line:
i've had these brakes for about a year and a half, i've had to bleed them three times and changed the front pads once (which was my fault). Working in a bike shops means i play on alot of bikes all day long and i can say that these are the best i've ever used, better than hope (except there 4-pots) hayes, maguras and shimanos. yeah you have to bleed them from the box but i'd do that with any disc just to be on the safe side. yes the lever bite position is fixed but who cares. if you fill the levers up to the brim when replacing the seal and top cap them turing the bike over wont affect them (the top cap alows the seal to expand slightly anyway.) and finally parts aren't expensive i thinks the guys who paid $100 for a hose were being ripped off the retail is about $30-$40 so i dunno what kinda shops you have. buy these and you'll be happy, want more power buy the 200mm rotor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith
a Downhiller
from Courtenay BC Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
two shieks and a dog
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$175.00
Purchased At:
Blacks
Strengths:
Lever comfort lever adjustment ease of bleeding, with no special tools powerful no lever "pump up" easy pad replacement modulation, modulation
Weaknesses:
bleeding when bike is overturned cir-clip for pad retaining clip
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, magura
Bike Setup:
Rm6-with eight inches in rear, Boxxer, eight inch rotors, xt
Bottom Line:
Awesome brakes! Used them for three years and only a few bleed problems. Read the reviews below and had no problems or part failures. Rather than complaining about the lack of power, I bled them and cleaned them with isoprapanol alcohol. When downhilling, I use only one finger for braking in all conditions. The levers are in the position you want them, even when they heat up.(unlike the Hayes) I have smashed into many trees, had plenty of crashes and am using the original levers. Never use the shimano pads in these, try the EBC red compound. Fast wearing, but even faster stopping. Stock Grimeca pads are good as well. The true test, I would purchase them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johno
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney Australia Date Reviewed: June 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Many
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Hhmm.......Not many!
Weaknesses:
I would tell you all of them i'll take up 4 pages!!
Similar Products Used:
XT v's, hs33's, hayes hydro & mech magura julie's! and they all kicked these pathetic powerless hunks of craps ass!
Bike Setup:
02 Kona Scab, Marzo DJ2's,rear tektro v, and bodge box front grimeca!
Bottom Line:
At $300 aussie bucks i wouldn't exactly call these a big bargain! Plus when you buy these new dont expect good brakes, even when run in! Also the feel changes, like sometimes the brakes will FEEL great but still wont stop as good as my mates hayes mechs! And then the next minute the feel has run away no feeling at all the lever will go back to the bar and will hardly stop me and my bike!
Anyway if you have the money to buy anything else please for gods sake save yourself the effort and the money!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Young
a Weekend Warrior
from Logan, UT, USA Date Reviewed: June 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Little Bear
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$87.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
The brake line is coated so it will not sratch the frame. Levers, caliper, and rotor look good. Great braking power once broken in.
Weaknesses:
Caliper is hard to mount, but once mounted correctly no additional adjusting is required.
Similar Products Used:
Avid, Hayes, Hope, and XT shimano disc brakes.
Bike Setup:
2000 GT i-2K Special Edition
Bottom Line:
These brakes are very nice. Once broken in, they have great stopping power. I've used other brakes from Hope, Hayes, Avid and Shimano, and I think Grimeca systems 8 are just as good or if not better. I would buy them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alex
a Downhiller
from North Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: June 10, 2002
Favorite Trail:
north shore and whistler - all of it
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Just before something on them breaks, they actually have pretty good modulation and power.
Weaknesses:
90 degree fitting on lever end of cable is prone to breakage and expensive to replace. levers break easily and cost 80$CAD to replace (i can buy replacement levers for my YZ 250 with three times the aluminum content for about 15$) Brake fluid peels paint off parts (smart)
Similar Products Used:
Purple Hayes
Bike Setup:
Sanat Cruz Bullit
Bottom Line:
I get the feeling these brakes were designed and tested by some 80 yr old Italian roadie. Come on, brake fluid peels the paint off of parts the second it touches anything. How could that make it to production?! The 90-degree cable fitting at the lever snaps so easily you don't even have to hit anything, just rotate your bars too far and cable tension alone will do the job. The levers are easily pulled out of the reservoir, exposing the piston. It's possible to get it back in and continue the ride, but I've never seen any other brake do that. The levers also break easily. The biggest headache with these brakes is not only your day of riding that gets ruined by a totally unreliable, and obviously untested product - the replacement cost for cables and levers is insane. Mountain bikes and their components are overpriced in general but what Gremica is doing is criminal. About 100$ for a new cable and 80$ for one flimsy little lever!!! I'm going back to Hayes as soon as possible – I can’t afford to use these things anymore. Do Not Buy These Brakes! I won't even give you the ones I'm taking off my Bullit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sigmund Jakhel
a Cross Country Rider
from Slovenia Date Reviewed: May 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
A local hill called Sv. Katarina (St, Catherine)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Cuk, town called Idrija
Strengths:
Nice stopping power, once properly bled and broken in.
Weaknesses:
Front brake is kinda weak for my riding style and 107 kg (200+ pounds)
Similar Products Used:
Tektro V-s, XTR, XT V-s
Bike Setup:
Cult LX 2002 (made in Slovenia!)- crank Deore, otherwise full LX. Bomber MXC air fork, Grimeca System 8 disc brakes, 160mm rotors front and back.
Bottom Line:
Nice braking power! I used to burn thru pads of my XTR front V's in about 2km of my regular downhill. The Grimecas might whine a bit, but they brake consistently all the way...
Used them for about a week (200km, about 1/3 on donwhills), and they are getting better and better with every ride, as they break in.
Front is a bit weak for my taste, I might upgrade to 185mm rotor (200mm is only recommended for QR20 axle forks... bummer). But first I'll wait a bit more for them to break in fully and then see what happens.
WARNING: If you value your life, BLEED THEM before you ride them, as the factory bleed job is bad. After bleeding pull the lever once softly without the wheel/disc, so that the pads touch lightly. This way you won't have any (or have less) dead motion of the lever before engaging. If the pads close too much, just open them with a large screwdriver. Also, adjust lever opening correctly, as full lever travel is relatively long and you just might clamp your fingerw without really braking :(
OVERALL: 5 chillis for good value for money 4 chillis for braking power, as front seems a bit weak. I will report back in about a month and describe progress.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan Hamilton
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: April 11, 2002
Bad factory bleed job, pin that holds the pads and returning spring came off so everything was a little loose but its cool now!
Similar Products Used:
Magura Julie's, HS 33's, Judie's,Hayes,And my Grimeca SYS 8's
Bike Setup:
2002 Kona Scab With Marzocchi dirt jump 2's and My Grimeca spinners and clampers(brakes)
Bottom Line:
When you get these brakes you should not just go and hit the maddest trails around because with the amount of brake fluid in these things there is no way you are going to stop! After the relatively short break in period these brakes will get you stoping just quick enough to stop and have a look at the hot blonde girl you just rode by!! I have not these brakes for very long but they have faltered once! Me being only 13 it was really hard for me to save up the money to get these brakes but at only $300 aussie dollars from a local bike shop i was laughing all the way home to my piggy bank!
All the other brakes that i have tried are good but they were not really what i was looking for Hayes were to grabby those things bit like a bloody lion! Judies were real nice but the others were not strong enough! Any way if you get brakes you wont be dissapointed but if you do dont blame me!! Cheers!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dylan Reid
a
from New Paltz, NY, USA Date Reviewed: March 25, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Strengths:
Power, modulation, levers
Weaknesses:
take a while to break in snapped hydrualic line(Bars spun too far) broke off bleed valve(??)
Similar Products Used:
hayes, avid mech
Bottom Line:
My experience with these brakes started off a little shaky, took a while to get them set up right and they felt very powerful sometimes and weak other. until i got them propperly broken in. Now they are just as powerful as anything i have tried, and still modulate very well.
With these brakes more than others, the ser up is very important.
The levers also deserve mention, as they are the most comfortable i have tried.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy
a
from Kansas Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Nice modulation (not an "on or off" brake), cool looks (calipers look like miniature mtotrcycles brakes, once pads are worn in they are great stoppers.
Weaknesses:
Factory bleed job is bad, shim setup is a pain, DOT 3 eats paint, bleeding is not as easy as with Hayes.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano XT, Magura, Avid and Hayes Mechanicals
Bike Setup:
Specialized S-Works M4 Hardtail XTR, White Bros., Race Face
Bottom Line:
I am not sure what shops you dissaisfied guys are going through, but as a service manager/mechanic at my shop, I know that the replacement parts are both in expensive and readily available. Ask your local shop if they buy from QBP, they have every little part available. When I bought mine, I built a spares kit just in case, new seals, bleed screws, o-rings, etc... I have only needed to replace a broken pad return spring, and it was my own fault that the original one broke. I ride my bike hard and do not baby the brakes at all. I am very satisfied with them. Although, when it comes to setup and bleeding, I have to agree it is a pain. If I was not a mechanic and used to the hydraulic world, I would have gone with Hayes. Mine did squeal when new but the pads broke in quickly and the noise stopped. I am very happy with my purchase. I am sorry that there are those of you that have had bad experiences.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart Schwartz
a Cross Country Rider
from Tigard, OR, USA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hagg Lake
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
Inexpensive, good feel
Weaknesses:
Parts expensive, Does not do well in muddy conditions
I have liked the brakes until the last few rides. Conditions have been very muddy. Since the brakes have open design on the caliper, mud collects on top of the rear brake. The mud creates a drag on the brake, as it seeps through and wears the pads quickly. As if you had engaged the brake the entire ride. I have replaced the pads twice now in the last year(really in the last 2 months). This is twice as often as other riders on other disc brakes.
If you can keep the mud out, good brake. Otherwise, keep an extra set of pads with you and a full camel back to rinse them out with.
The front does not seem to have this problem, since the mud cannot collect on top of the brake in my setup.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendan
a Downhiller
from Longmeadow Date Reviewed: January 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Laurel Park Dual Slalom
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo.com
Strengths:
Good Power,Cool Levers,Full Hydrolic,4 Pistons
Weaknesses:
Dot 4 Fluid Eats Away Lever Paint,Front Had To Be Re-Bleed At My LBS,In The Beging They Squeaked
Awesome brakes after they are worn in. Only problem for me was the paint around the lever was eatin away by the dot 4 fluid. And I had to get them re-bleed because I squeezed the lever before it was on the wheel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wild Wayne
a Cross Country Rider
from Everett Wa Date Reviewed: January 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Devils Gulch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bicyle Centres
Strengths:
Modulation,Power,Price,Looks
Weaknesses:
Stock pads, Factory bleed job
Bike Setup:
I-Drive 3.0,XTR drivetrain,Titec,Time,Grimeca system 8
Bottom Line:
After almost a year of use I was starting to loose my enthusiasm for these breaks the power was lacking and I was constantly having to fiddle with them. It was about time for new pads so I talked to the LBS and he said go for the Gold, EBC gold that is. All I can say is WOW !. After re-shimming these brakes and a general once over I cleaned the rotors with rubbing alcohol and scuffed them with 120 gritt emory cloth. I then installed the EBC gold pads pumped the levers a few times, removed the wheel and squeezed the lever once to tighten up the brakes, re-installed the wheels pumped the brakes untill there was no drag and fillled the master cyl to the brim, presto these have changed from OK stoppers to what I thought disc brakes should be. I don't know if I got a bum set of factory pads or maybe I am just picky but if you are not happy with your brakes try these steps and you may think you have new brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bogus Blake
a Downhiller
from Flagstaff, AZ Date Reviewed: December 21, 2001
fluid eats paint- maybe they should powder coat the resevoir, shims are a pain in the arse
Similar Products Used:
hayes, avid
Bike Setup:
2000 rockhopper fsr comp, set up for freeride: Xvert, splined crank, bashguard/ chainguide, DH stem, bars & tires, Vuelta excalibur FR wheels, system 8 brakes
Bottom Line:
First, if you taco your wheel, its not the fault of your brakes that you have to walk home. second, if you hate these brakes, why are you buying XT's? they are exactly the same! Third, if you buy ANY hydro brakes, assymbled or not, you WILL have to bleed them- you're a moron if you think you can just slap them on and go. These brakes are not for the mechanically inept, though. shimming so the rotor wont rub is slow but needed. bleeding is really not that hard if you've ever done it to your car, and engagement adjustment is cake (take off the wheel and squeeze the lever till the pads are close, then let go. its done). i have the 180mm rotor to fit my fork, and even with it, modulation is amazing. i have ridden hayes and my bro's avids, and both are very graby compared to my sys 8's. every disc brake squeels when you get the rotor wet, but who cares- it just makes people turn and look at your sweet new brakes! these are not xc brakes. freeriders and hard trail riders should deffinately pick these up. if you think you need disc brakes, dont kid yourself with mechanicals, go hydraulic or you will regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: November 28, 2001
These brakes take some mechanical skill to properly install and bleed. Once properly shimmed and adjusted they work great. I had to mill some aluminum off my Judy and the rotor bolt heads to make it fit without rubbing. As far as durability, I have been using it for over a year and still have not had to replace the original pads. I did not experience any of the lever or bleed screw breakage that some other reviewers seem to have had. I have never had any squealing from these brakes. My friend has Hayes Hydro's and they constantly squeal. The Hayes also don't have the modulation of the Grimeca's, they feel like an on/off switch.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chun jae
a Weekend Warrior
from south korea Date Reviewed: November 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
yongma ridge
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
i'm really trying hard to come up with some......but all i can come up with is that they're cheap(in many ways)
Weaknesses:
where oh where to start............sets start with the power, after that's why we all buy disc brakes(that and foul conditions)........the problem with the power is that there is none. now, lets look at the construction....its terrible. these brakes suck. after the first week and one crash, the damn lever popped out(not designed to do this). I believe the design is the problem. Sh*t happens. anyhoo, i popped the damn thing back in as best I could and off we go. here I am 4 months later and I go out for a bit of a ride and end up tacoing my wheel in a bit of a crash and have to walk down the mountain because both of my god damned brake levers are busted. Agghhhhhh!!!! I could go on but im not going to because im pissed off that i cant ride right now until i get new brakes(fixing them is a waste of time and money.......JUST BUY HAYES!!!!)
i hope i have inspired you all to stay away from everything italian (except for bombers and ferraris and maybe their women)
Similar Products Used:
Shimano xt, hayes, magura, hope
Bike Setup:
sts-1000 bomber, monkey lite, thompson, HAYES BRAKES ON THE WAY, race face, xt/xtr, sun ringle disco tec wheel set
Bottom Line:
I repeat..........these brakes are sh*t.......do not buy them..........REALLY
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eder Savio
a Downhiller
from Florianópolis Date Reviewed: October 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Costa da Lagoa
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$145.00
Purchased At:
Bike Tech Floripa - Erni Meira
Strengths:
- Do not need bled in instalation - Great modulation - Powerful stop - Plush lever - Strong steel tube - Good price - Easy installation - Do not need adjuste in hot days - Great safe in high speeds
Weaknesses:
Sorry, none yet. Maybe I back later to say something about a weak. I hope not...
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Sram, Shimano V-brakes
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme, 6,25 rear travel, Deore 2000 Kit, 2.10 kevlar tires, RST Hi5 fork, Power Tools 35 mm stem, DH bar.
Bottom Line:
See my last review. Nothing had change. The brake is very good. No adjustes. Just ride and ride.
I don't understand what is going on with the others bikers.
I'm very happy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne Wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from Everett, Wa Date Reviewed: October 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Devils Gulch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good modulation, good looks,cheap
Weaknesses:
Factory bleed job is awfull. The bleed screws are soft
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive 3.0,XTR drivetrain, Time pedals
Bottom Line:
Good brakes when setup properly. I have went through some of the same frustration as others like breaking a bleed screw, having to re-bleed the backs. My local shop Bicycle Centers of Everett showed my how to bleed the brakes by just craking the screws slighty open and with a hose attached to the fitting letting gravity most of the work ( if you own these brakes throw out the bleeding instructions). One properly bled I have been happy except the squeal you get when the rotors get wet ( I live in Washington ). When like to hear from anyone who has tried some of the other brands of pads.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John K.
a Cross Country Rider
from Thousand Oaks, California, USA Date Reviewed: October 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
So Cal trails, Santa Monica and Conejo Valley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
SuperGo Santa Monoca
Strengths:
Price was right. Found them on sale, now I know why? Better cables (clear vinyl covered SS braid) than the Shimano discs. Modulation was good in the beginning. They look okay, and the levers a pretty nice.
Weaknesses:
Spongy feel. Poor braking. Loud squealing noise. Constant bleeding (I even bought the beeding kit from Bassano/Grimeca) never improved braking much. Directions were very skimpy.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT V brakes, Trying out the Shimano XT disc brakes now.
Bike Setup:
DeKerf team SL steel. Marzocchi atom 80. Race face next LP crank. Shimano XT 9sp. drive train with GS attack shifters. Race face bars, Thompson stem, Rock shock suspension post, Selle Italia Flite seat. Shimano XT disc hubs laced to Mavic 317 rims with DT 14/15/14 spokes.
Bottom Line:
I don't like these brakes. They worked okay when I first got them, and then continued a downhill trend toward being weak, spongy and they squeal like a pig. I’ve done it all deglazing, bleeding, cleaning, adjusting, etc. Nothing helped. I'd rather be riding. I weigh 190, maybe a lighter rider would like these better than me. I may skip the hydrolics and go cable if the Shimano XT disc brakes are a flop. Maybe the other Grimeca's are better, the 4 piston system 8 is not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyrell Jakowicki
a Downhiller
from Alberta Date Reviewed: September 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
dirty little secret
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Red Bike
Strengths:
plush,anti lock thats aobut it
Weaknesses:
Biggest pieces ive ever used.Firts day 3 bolts of the rear rotor came off.second day lever brakes(my lever was loose so when i did crash i should break off)No 8 inch rotors.
Similar Products Used:
Magura cuz they suck to
Bike Setup:
Norco Luanch
Bottom Line:
These brakes are horrible. My advice is to not buy them or if u have them switch to hayes. theres no problems with bleeding hayes. DONT BUY THESE GRIMECA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne Date Reviewed: September 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
One Tree Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Bicycle Superstore FTG
Strengths:
Great feel, Good Modulation, Heaps of Power, good looks.
These brakes really had me worried at first! Noisy, weak and completely lacking in power. After reading reviews it was apparent that bleeding was required. Two Snapped bleed screws later (driver error) and the brakes are brillant! The bleed screws are increadibly delicate, and not built for my big unskilled hands. Be CAREFUL, it will happen very quickly! While the brakes are working well, nothing I or my bike shop has tried can stop the squealing at slow speed. But at high speed these things are scary good!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eder Giovani Savio
a Downhiller
from Florianópolis/SC - Brazil Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Costa da Lagoa - Floripa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$145.00
Purchased At:
Bike Teck Floripa - Erni Meira
Strengths:
- Do not need bled in instalation - Great modulation - Powerful stop - Plush lever - Strong steel tube - Good price - Easy installation - Do not need adjuste in hot days
Weaknesses:
Sorry, none yet. Maybe I back later to say something about a weak. I hope not...
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Sram, Shimano V-brakes,
Bike Setup:
Haro Extreme, 6,25 rear travel, Deore 2000 Kit, 2.10 kevlar tires, RST Hi5 fork, Power Tools 35 mm stem, DH bar.
Bottom Line:
Some friends said me do not buy grimeca s8 because would be need to bled it during installation. It is not true. I just installed and rode. No adjustes, no bled.
The care is do not push the lever before put the rotor into caliper. If you make this mistake, you put air inside the system and you will need bled.
Grimeca System 8 is like Shimano XT, but Shimano uses mineral oil and plastic tubes. Grimeca uses dot brake fluid and steel tubes. Grimeca has better modulation. Shimano has better stop power. Ah! Shimano uses mineral oil because worry about earth. But if you just want to brake, fluid is better. I do not believ some riders will affect the life :)
Well, well. I'm very happy with this brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Oz Date Reviewed: August 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Modulation No mucking around
Weaknesses:
Probably not suitable for big downhillers Dot fluid eats paint
Similar Products Used:
Magura Hydraulic Rim Brakes Vee's
Bike Setup:
GT XCR 1500, Psylo SL, Grimeca System 8
Bottom Line:
Bike shop swapped the standard Formula disks for Grimeca's when I purchased the bike (at my request). Never had an ounce of trouble with them.
Fit perfectly with no adaptors, etc. Steel hoses "just" squeeze into the cable holders so no cable ties, etc. required.
Feel is excellent with more than enough power for cross country. Excellent consistency - feel never changes regardless of wear or environment.
Will squeak slightly when wet, but only lasts until water is gone. Apart from that they are dead silent.
Managed to fade the front once on a seriously long and steep downhill, but I was dragging the brake the whole way down.
A really big improvement over anything else I've used.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: August 7, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rapaki, Bowenvale, Worsleys
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Cycles
Strengths:
Cheap, Good, Look cool
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT, Hayes
Bike Setup:
2001 Marin Nail Trail, with some fancy bits that don't come standard :)
Bottom Line:
It's marketed as an XSIV in NZ, I got one put on the front of my new bike. It took about 3 rides to bed in, and since then, the braking has been smooth and strong with good feel and modulation. I have the 185mm rotor 'cause of the shock (Manitou) needing an adaptor to fit these. In terms of overall performance, 4 chillies, hayes have slightly better modulation. Price wise - 5 chillies - a lot of brake for your buck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jtd
a Downhiller
from Sac, CA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Great lever feel, Nice braking modulation, easy to bleed.
Weaknesses:
Needs to be bled to get the air out of the brakes,
Similar Products Used:
Vbrakes-Hopes-XT DISC
Bike Setup:
Outland VPP/Psylo/Race
Bottom Line:
This is my second review of this product after I installed and rode on them...I see another beginner mechanic has attempted to try to install these brakes. IF YOU HAVE NO SKILLS, DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT. Otherwise, this brake kicks ass! I made the mistake of having the rear bleeder screw too loose and all the fluid leaked out when bleeding from the factory! DAMN!! So, I thought it would be a good idea to try bleeding the entire rear system, viola!! The rear now works better than the front one does. One tip as well, if you want the brake to grab sooner.pull the lever with the disc out of the caliper. This forces more fluid into the pistons and will give you a shorter lever pull. You might have to pry the pads a little if you pull too much. If you want more lever, put a feeler gauge between the pads and rotor and pull the lever, this makes the piston push fluid back into the mc. WARNING: Novice Mechanics should not try this at home. You must have some wrenching knowledge and understanding about hydrallics.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Wright
a Weekend Warrior
from Bellingham, WA USA Date Reviewed: August 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
911 on Galbraith Mt, Chutes and Ladders, Woodlot
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Supergo.com
Strengths:
Sort of worked, for a day
Weaknesses:
ARRRGHHHH, piece of crap construction
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano V's, Magura HS-33
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain RM6
Bottom Line:
Very, Very disapointed. Right out of the box, they weren't bled correctly. So, 20 bucks later and a bleed kit and I was ready to bleed the brake. Followed the crappy bleed instructions and when I went to tighten the bleed screw, I got it finger tight, then one crank with a wrench and the bleed screw sheered off inside the brake. Now all the bike shops I have talked to up in the North Shore have laughed at me and told me I should have bought Hayes. Plus, to call Grimeca, it is a friggin international call. Stupid brakes. They did work for one ride though, before the air from the original bleed job worked into the caliper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shayne
a Downhiller
from Vancouver BC Date Reviewed: July 30, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Low cost Quad piston power Nice lever
Weaknesses:
brake lever finish rear hose angle
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
KHS Fetish
Bottom Line:
I will start by saying these are not the same as Shimano. Period. They have 4 individual pads, the size of the bodies are larger, the difference in the leading vs. trailing pistons is different,the rotors are considerably thicker, lever uses two bolts in master cylinder, overall finish not the same. Since I have both, I can say that they both have there place. These brakes are better DH brakes in that the rotors are slightly larger ( 165mm, 185mm ) than XT's and the thickness makes them way better at dumping heat, same with the 4 pad set up, better for heat. The XT's are better suited to the xc croud in that the finish is much nicer, and Mineral oil is more popular with the tree huggin' granola croud. Bottom line. If you want looks, buy the big S, want great brakes for a great price, get the Grimeca's, you won't be disapionted if you have some DIY skills or a decent shop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jtd
a Downhiller
from Sactown,USA Date Reviewed: July 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Downieville...South Shore TRT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Polished Levers (looks killer), cross drilled rotors, No Torx bolts like Avid(lame), Good instructions, Inexpensive compared to Avid Mechanicals $89.00 with no lever vs. $99 with lever/housing/4piston caliper.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Hope/Hayes/Shimano XTR/Hayes Mech.
Bike Setup:
Outland with Psylo Race/XTR/RaceFace/
Bottom Line:
This is an article before I actually test the brakes. So far it seems that there are mixed reviews about these brakes. I bet all the people who are complaining have no experience with hydrallics(they should stick to mechanicals) or they are just not that smart. If you have no clue how to bleed the brakes on your car, then these are not for you. So, far by first look, the system gets 5 steaming dog turds for value and 5 for overall. I will submit another review after the brakes have been installed and worn in correctly(most of you probably forgot to do this or touched the pads with you greasy fingers), ID10T errors most likely
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roger Winther
a Cross Country Rider
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Maaneskinnsloypen
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$722.00
Purchased At:
Local bike shop
Strengths:
Awsome braking power and control!
Weaknesses:
Finish...
Similar Products Used:
Simano XT disc, Hayes, Magura.
Bike Setup:
Yeti A.R.C 2000 with XT/ XTR USE Alien seatpost, Syncros Stem, Easton C2 MonkeyLite, CK Headset etc....
Bottom Line:
These things really work, i bought them with a wheelset and the whole works. I have never been so happy with my bike as i am now :-) Ill never buy V- brakes again, and why go for Shimano when its the same system. I do also get the impression that the people that complain soo much about these brakes must be dumb. Follw the instructions and think logical, then it works. And please dont write stupid and negatvie articles when you have only tested the system. It would make this section a bit more serious. Maybe ther should be an age limit....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joie
a Cross Country Rider
from California Date Reviewed: July 12, 2001
Favorite Trail:
north yuba
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$218.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
4 piston design based on motorcycle technology, plastic wrapped steel braided lines, good aesthetics, excellent modulation and stopping power, no other adjustments necessary
Weaknesses:
poor master cylinder seal 2 bolt design causing paint damaging fluid leakage, need to bleed rears during initial installatiion, brake squeal when cold
Similar Products Used:
magura louise
Bike Setup:
diamond back x2, b52
Bottom Line:
the technology, design, aesthetics and craftsmanship are truly italian but far from perfect, the need to bleed the brakes from out of the box is unacceptable, Grimeca NEEDS to redesign master cylinder ... no excuses and no compromises
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Pszonka
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Louis Date Reviewed: June 28, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$249.00
Strengths:
Modulation and stoping power
Weaknesses:
Bleeding of the back break.
Similar Products Used:
Magura HS-33
Bottom Line:
These brakes are a good option for disk. If you want hydro(and who doesn't) go with these. There is no reason to spend the extra on the Shimano type since they are the same. You most likely will need to bleed one or both of the brakes(see how on post below). But when you get the brakes make sure you test the tightness of the fittings! I bled my brakes at least 10 times and could not get rid of the air, then one day NO brakes, the hose fittings were lose. Tighten the fittings and bleed and good to go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
OJ
a Weekend Warrior
from vancouver Date Reviewed: June 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
- stop adequately (when they work) - relatively cheap (at the start)
Weaknesses:
Where do I start?
- The hose is connected at a right angle so it levers itself to the breaking point when the bar spins or the hose snags during a fall.
- The levers can't be set up like true hydraulics (one finger stopping) because the 4 piston system requires more throw to the lever than you ever had with the worst set-up V brake.
- The levers depress to the point where they hit your knuckles on the grips and if you adjust the levers further out to give clearance they stick out at such an angle that they are guaranteed to break off in a fall.
- When (not if) you break a lever you learn that (i) your LBS hasn't got any in stock (ii) when they finally arrive they cost nearly $100 each.
- The discs screech like a very badly toed in set of V-brakes.
- The front brake system is set-up in a much lower position on the hub than the Hayes and so is much more vulnerable (poor design).
- They don't have very good dealer support (trying getting hoses or levers when you break them...and you will).
Similar Products Used:
8-track stereo systems; most English cars;
Bike Setup:
stock Norco Launch
Bottom Line:
The bottom line became clear to me when I took these in (again) for servicing. The shop that claims to be one of the larger Norco dealers in Canada told me that if I had bought my bike from them (Norco Launch) they would have advised me to get rid of the Grimecas and put on a set of Hayes right from the start. The bottom line? Grimeca brakes and Fiat automobiles are proof that the Italians have a tremendous sense of humour. Just don't let it be at your expense.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Thorne
a Downhiller
from Utah Date Reviewed: June 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rim 157
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$175.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The 4 piston design.
Weaknesses:
Where do I start. Poor craftmanship, lots of brake fade, and the levers have an uncomfortable feel.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT and Hayes
Bike Setup:
SantaCruz Bullet, Hayes, SRAM 9.0, Hugi, etc....
Bottom Line:
I bought these brakes per my LBS recommendation. They said that they had awesome brake power and that they modulate really well. The up side to these over the Shimano's is that the hose is protected with a plastic cover which prevents paint damage on the bike and the brake pads break in easier (sooner I should say). When I got the brakes home and really looked at them, they were nowhere near the quality of Shimano's or Hayes. The craftsmanship is poor at best, and the paint on the levers themselves had already started coming off because Gramicca got the Dot 3 fluid on them and left it there. So now I have a wonderful silver and black look to my new brakes. I finally got them mounted up and realized that the spacers that they provided where not sufficient to space the brakes properly. So I had to go my local hardware store and pick up a few. No big deal, right? They’re always a little work to be done with these situations. So when I finally got them mounted I was disappointed to find that the damn things needed to be bled because apparently if you tip your bike over (the levers more specifically) then the air left in the reservoir will mess things up. Okay to I'll bleed them. Unloosed the bled nipple on the front one first and off it came. The piece of sh#$ broke right off with no effort at all. I've been working on bikes for 11 years and never has anything like this happened. I swear on my mothers grave that I twisted this thing will no more muscle that my 4-month-old son could have and it broke right off. So now with brake fluid draining all over everything and my riding that weekend ruined because of this I took both sets of brakes off the bike and set them back to my LBS. They returned the rear one but said that the front would need to be covered under warranty from Gramicca. So on goes the battle. When we finally got through to Gramicca they said exactly "Italians don't make mistakes” I am not adding nor subtracting anything that was said. That came straight from there mouth. I have never dealt with such a poorly customer oriented business in my life. Apparently we are all mistaken when we say, "Where only human and we make mistakes" because Italians don't. I'm so blessed to be on this earth with such divine beings. We should all look to aspire to be more like the Gramicca Italians. Viva la Gramicca. Well I successfully got rid of the brakes, convinced my LBS to never carry Gramicca again, and I will continue to bash the hell out of there name and products where ever I go. By the way. I bought a set of Hayes (for cheaper than the divine Gramicca) and they are 100% better than Gramicca will ever be.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ingram
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: May 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oil can
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Cycle path
Strengths:
-Looks cool -4 piston
Weaknesses:
-No power -Poorly made -Those SOB's charge 100 buks to replace the lever -Pure ass
Similar Products Used:
Zellers vee breaks
Bike Setup:
GT xcr 4000 (Front disk only)
Bottom Line:
These breaks may look good, and u mite want them cuz their 4 piston. But please save yourself money in repairs and just buy hayes. These breaks are weak as zack bath. They have no power, and the warrenty dosn't work. I broke my lever and was charged 100 buks for a new one!!! I can make one of these cheap ass things my self for 35 cents!!! I thought id save 100 buks by not buying hayes, but i wish i did cuz i have already spent more then that in reapairs. the pile of ass fluid leaked into the caliper and wrecked the pads, and the roter bent when i was cleaning it!!!! They locked up wehn i went down a hill and it that was the most pure ass thing i have ever whitnessed.
DO NOT BY THIS BREAK!!! BUY HAYES!!! THESE ARE 100% PURE ASS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jesse
a
from australia Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
look great, stop HARD! good feel.
Weaknesses:
i still need to play with the feel of mine and the reach of my lever. i'm having trouble guessing how hard the brakes on sometimes, am i still moving cause i need more brake? or is it just the rear wheel locked again?
Bike Setup:
Puegeot Excess specialised disc adapter. XSIV dh8 rear disc (grimeca system 8) 180mm rotor. by the time you read this ill have the front matching but bigger rotor i reckon.
Bottom Line:
they stop. fast.
so i havent had mine long. I got the back one cause a friend with XT's said i was gonna go endo, i wanted a couple of weeks to get used to it before i put the front on. but now i'm happy and definately want the front to match. just wish i could keep that radial spoked look on the front.... havent bled them yet, but im not scared, theres answers to my questions in 4 different languages in the instructions! thats gotta help right?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne Wilson
a Cross Country Rider
from Everett Wa Date Reviewed: May 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good feel and modulation,Constent perfomance regardless of conditions.
Weaknesses:
Factory bleeding instructions are a pain, and cause more trouble then they fix. Slightly heavier then V-brakes.
Good brakes once bled properly, had to bleed mine 2-3 times per brake to get the performance I expected. Now that they are working properly I will never go back to V-brakes.Good stopping power and feel.If you are having trouble getting yours to bleed either call them or your LBS, the local shop showed me how to gravity bleed them a very simple task.If you ride in wet and muddy area's like I do they can't be beat, if you ride in a dry climate all the time and try to save every last ounce of weight not for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Owens
a Racer
from Fresno, CA. Date Reviewed: April 21, 2001
Favorite Trail:
007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
Price Point.com
Strengths:
Modulation. Power! Tunability, adaptibility. VALUE
Weaknesses:
Easily damaged when crashing, but what is indestrucable!
Similar Products Used:
hayes, magura louise
Bike Setup:
the best I can get on this budjet. LOL
Bottom Line:
ok first off try calling Grimmeca with your Tech questions they are good people who stand behind their quality products. The prople there know their bike parts. I am disapointed in all you crank heads that cant do research and contact these mfg yourself. Call Vuelta USA (Grimmeca) 1-818-686-3466 or visit them on the web at www.vueltausa.com
If you need better wet weather pads and any spare parts goto the following address www.trident-sports-usa.com the people there are customer service orientated, have good knowladge. On my last call I ended up on a three way confrence call with the Tech services dept of Vuelta and trident sports. Made me feel important!
As for the product itself I have had to bleed the system a few times but remember do not pull the leaver when the bike is upsidedown. This applies to all hyd brakes! I am very happy with the feel of the brakes the availability of spare parts. Trident will ship international.
Keep your rotors clean with alcohol after everyride. No you cant pour beer or wiskey on them get some alcohol from the drug store and use it to clean the rotors on a regular basis. It works!!!!!!!
Hardcore riding requires hardcore service. Don't want to wrench ou rig than ride it to the 7-11 not down the mountain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Dickson
a Racer
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: April 16, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
distributor NZ
Strengths:
removeable handle bar clamp setup, plastic braided cable, easy pad maintainance, using DOT fliud, replacement lever is same for both sides, modulation and brake feel, lever adjustment
Weaknesses:
manufactures breeding instructions
Similar Products Used:
Hayes (never again) Magura Gustav (to week points)Mugura Clara (what a joke)
Bike Setup:
The product I'm using is called Xsiv which is the same a Grimeca, its a sister brand but the same thing. I have installed this 4-piston brake on a number of bikes, but it is very important to use the correct size rotor for the wright purpose. I'm a distributor for Rocky Mountain in NZ. RM9 DH, Shivers etc. For this bike I'm using a 200mm rotor in front and 180mm rear RM6 2000 model bike, 180mm front rotor and 160mm rear. Rocky Mtn, Instinct XC bike 160mm rotorsfront and rear.
Bottom Line:
After using different brake setups this new system is the best yet, but there is a lot to learn about setting the brakes up. I have fitted approximately 20 units. Follow instruction below: 1)adjust 2mm allan screw on master cylinder/lever, screw in, so that the threaded allan screw is right inside the mount (lever should be a long reach) this is so you get a full master cylinder stroke for bleeding purpose. 2)Set up bike as per instructions, with a resivor bottle off the end of the Caliper. To bleed brakes, pull lever in to the handle bar while bleed valve is open, close bleed valve before returning lever (repeat 10-12 times)This will remove all the air from the master cylinder and line. 3)With Bleed Valve closed, pump lever 6 times fast, then hold pressure and open bleed valve quickly, (air should shoot out)repeat 3 times, this will remove the air from the Caliper. 4)With a small screw driver, lever the pads home a little and at the same time look at the master cylinder resivor (you should get a small air bubble out the top) If no air comes out you must have got it with step-2. 5)Full resivor and fit cover. 6)With pads in place, remove rotor, pump brakes until pads are 1mm apart, then gently push rotor back between pads. (this process sets the correct pads distance from rotor or modulation) 7)Test ride bike 3-4 minutes, lots of braking. 8)Adjust 2mm allan screw on lever so you have the correct reach. (you may have to re-shim caliper as the pads might touch to rotor.
The biggest problem that consummers have is getting correct lever travel or feel of the brake. Plus you must use the correct Rotor for the job. These brakes are the new industry standard. If you can't make them work then get a shop to do it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mighty Mouse
a Racer
from Erin Date Reviewed: April 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
mail order Supergo and Jenson
Strengths:
Good quality, relatively light. Powerful brakes once they are set up right. Coating on braided brake lines. Same as Shimano, except cheaper.
Weaknesses:
DOT Brake Fluid vs. mineral oil(s). Should e-coat the master cyliners/lever bodies. Spare parts, don't need yet but....
Similar Products Used:
Avid Speed Dials with XT V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XC Pro, Rolf Dolmite Disc Wheels
Bottom Line:
Fairly easy to install even if the instructions are not overly clear. Mounted to frame and fork easily, all necessary hardware and shims provided. Factory bleeding of system....in your dreams!!! Do not consider riding anywhere but your garage 'til you have bled the systems. Levers will feel good but small air bubbles will be present. It's time consuming, a little messy but once bled, the brake are flawless. The paint used on the master cylinder body is poor and the brake fluid eventually strips it off in places. Can be touched up but maybe they should e-coat them like a bike frame?? Other than that the system is great, powerful, good modulation right up to lock-up. Goodbye brake adjustments, sticky cables, etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakville Ontario Date Reviewed: March 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Hilton Falls
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Oakville Cycle
Strengths:
Power and feel, they have made me a faster rider down technical descents.
Weaknesses:
Need to be bled right out of the box.
Similar Products Used:
XT V's
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain T.O. Chris King hubs, XTR, Sid XC
Bottom Line:
These are great brakes once you have them set up and bedded in. I cant see why I would want more. I needed to bleed them three times when I got them (probably because I didn't take the time to do it right the first two times) but since then they are perfect. I think either their quality control at Grimeca is weak, or the shipping creates air in the system, but just take the time to bleed them. Solid, controlled and I can literally lock up either wheel with my pinky. The control they afford me actually makes me faster on downhills due to the feel of the front brake, which keeps me from over braking and washing out. I never thought that better braking would make me faster, but these do. I am an XC racer and I only went to disks because I am a gear Junkie, but now I am convinced of their benefits and wouldn't use cantis again. These are amazing brakes, just take the time to set them up right and your good to go. Check out Cyclepath in Oakville Ont. if you need some, best deals around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Lodi, Ca Date Reviewed: March 30, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Setup is very simple, 4 pistons give excellent modulation. Very good power to modulation ratio. Almost maintenance free, so far.
Weaknesses:
brake fluid damage to resevoir finish.
Similar Products Used:
XTR V-Brake, Hayes, Hope
Bike Setup:
Ventana Marble Peak w/all the good stuff
Bottom Line:
An excellent performing brake, remember these brakes require a "break in period" before full performance is achieved. If you need to be "cool" don't by these brakes, but if you are a mountain biker and don't give a damn about image, go for the Grimeca System 8.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA Date Reviewed: March 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$128.00
Purchased At:
new on ebay
Strengths:
Great modulation, good power, comfortable levers, inexpensive, look cool.
Weaknesses:
can be noisy when wet/cold but quiet right down once warmed up.
Similar Products Used:
99 Hayes hydraulics
Bike Setup:
97 Jamis Dakar, Z2 Atom 80, XTR and Race Face stuff, etc.
Bottom Line:
For the price, you can't beat these brakes. I previously had some Hayes disc brakes and I honestly think they suck. They squealed like a homesick goose when they got wet, and they cost about twice as much as Grimecas. The Grimeca's perform flawlessly, one finger braking, plenty of braking power. I'm 6' 4" 225 lbs. and these babies haul me down in a hurry. Quit screwin' around! Buy some!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
F L
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City UTAH Date Reviewed: March 6, 2001
Favorite Trail:
southern utah secret
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$108.00
Purchased At:
Phattire.com
Strengths:
simple design, Int. Standard mounting, good modulation, good power
Weaknesses:
Might need to use shims, black paint peels where DOT fluid has attacked it, not made in USA
Similar Products Used:
Formula mechanical disk, Hayes hydraulics
Bike Setup:
Fisher Hoo Koo e Koo, Judy XC 100, Disk Front/V rear, Easton Carbon bars, Time attack pedals, still pretty stock.
Bottom Line:
For the money, $107.99, this brake can't be beat. Despite the occasional squeal and the smell of molten metal after a long downhill this brake is great. I had no problems with power right out of the box. Although the paint had peeled on the lever/pump where some hydrau fluid had not been wiped off at the factory and had been allowed to attack the finish. They do pump up a bit on long sustained downhills but I believe they offer better modulation than Hayes and will easily lock up the front wheel with one finger. Hands down best deal in brakes -- Why buy the Sh*tmano copies of this brake? Buy the real thing for cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Hutchison
a Weekend Warrior
from North Vancouver Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
North Shore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
John Henry's
Strengths:
4 piston design, less expensive than other major brands.
Weaknesses:
squealing,leaking,lever pulls right back to the bar when overheated.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Tazmon, Race Face,XTR, etc.
Bottom Line:
My LBS where I purchased the System 8's said that the brakes are good except there seems to be some problems during manufacturing. Bassano Grimeca is supposed to be an ISO 9002 certified company where these types of inadequencies should be addressed. Anyway, switched to the 2001 Hayes from my LBS with only a small price upcharge and can't believe how much better they perform. Almost makes me want to go out and buy a Harley (almost)!!! Looks like American engineering beats the Italians in this case.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marky Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Victoria, B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: February 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Airbomb.com
Strengths:
Stopping power, great lever feel, easy to maintain, made by a huge motorcycle company with years of experience.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
All sorts of v-brakes, different pads, grimeca system 1's (not very good)
Bike Setup:
Cove Stiffee H/T front and rear system 8's, Z1 dropoff's, race face stuff etc.
Bottom Line:
If you want an awesome brake for the price go with the system 8's (the Shimano XT's are an EXACT copy, the only difference is the mineral fluid instead of brake fliud) They DO have a break-in period of about a ride or so. (in other words don't go doing an insane downhill like some of the other guys reviewing these until the pads and the rotors have had a chance to set-up with each other properly, or you will kill yourself) I've had absoulutely zero problems with these brakes, from the steep slipperly stuff to the wide open fire roads, they perform flawlessly. Make sure you bleed them properly when you get them, don't trust factory jobs, when the levers start to get close to the bars from pad wear, simply open the reservior and put a couple of drops of brake fluid in, and you're good to go. I'm very happy with my set-up and would recommend these to anybody out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Fullerton,Ca. Date Reviewed: February 14, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Strawberry Peak
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
La Habra Cyclery
Strengths:
One finger power, great modulation, you can take levers off w/out removing grips, plastic coated brake lines
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS XTC Air, Grimeca System 8 brakes, Rolf Dolomite Disc wheels, Marzocchi Atom Race, All XTR drive train
Bottom Line:
Only about six rides on these, but so far they're awesome. I'm only using my index fingers to brake now, no matter what the conditions or speed. The modulation allows you to stop VERY quickly with no skidding. The other day I had them in rain and snow and they worked great with the exception of some initial squealing when they were cold, but as soon as they warmed up they were quiet. They are a blast to ride with! The Hayes I tried seemed to work well, but take a little more getting used to because they don't have near the modulation as these. I read a pretty negative review on the Grimecas in one of the bike Mags the day after I ordered them and almost cancelled my order until I noticed that Grimeca advertises in all of the Mags except this particular one, hmmmmmmm. I am so glad I got them, they are changing the way I ride. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend these at this point. I'll report back if problems arise later
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith Fowler
a Weekend Warrior
from Courtenay BC Date Reviewed: February 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Two Shieks & a Dog
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Blacks
Strengths:
Modulation Ease of set up Easy adjustments Easy Bleeding comfortable levers all weather stopping
Weaknesses:
Frequent bleeding Bleeding on a regular basis Bleeding every few rides Bleeding if your bike goes upside down Levers
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain RM6, 6" Jr. T.
Bottom Line:
The levers are identical to the XTR's (very comfortable). One finger breaking, even on downhill stuff. Great modulation. Have never bent a rotor, never had stipped screws( I use only one hand to tighten them). They use DOT brake fluid (this is good). I have heard of levers breaking easily. My only complaint is: when you dump your bike or turn it upside down for some other reason, the brakes must be bled. The reservoir rubber seal has a small air pocket on the fluid side. Other than that they are great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shane
a Racer
from Lakewood CO Date Reviewed: February 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
rockline
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$220.00
Strengths:
Incredible stopping power, great moculation, twin bolt lever, great feeling levers.
Weaknesses:
Diaphram leaks off top fluid, resivior screws strip easily.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes hydro, Hayes cable, Avid cable, RS, Hope Pro-2, hope dh4.
Bike Setup:
Cheeta Pro-Line, Manitou Carbon, Azonic454's, bars, stem, and pedals, Thomson, SDG,ODI, THE rims, Razor Rock hubs,and Nokian tires.
Bottom Line:
These brakes will make you faster and more confident. They modulate just like your V-brake XC bike only with enough power to stop you anytime. Obviously everyone has different tastes and some like more on-off feel, but power wise they are more powerful than hayes, on par with Hope DH4's, and much stronger than formula. When you get them bleed them first before you ride them and the feel is much better. I think that most people who didn't think these brakes were strong must have contaminated the pads.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bare none
a Downhiller
from canada Date Reviewed: February 3, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
there good brakes man, with a damn good price, the leaves come off the bar without takin the grips off
Weaknesses:
a little tricky to trouble shoot when sumthing goes wrong
Similar Products Used:
hayes
Bike Setup:
brodie
Bottom Line:
these are actually damn cool brakes. i work at a shop and got a proto pair and they are cool. they are hard to figure out whats wrong with them when there broken, and a little weird to set up. and i wasnt too sure about the factory bleed job at first either, but then i just rode it for a bit anyway, and its worked its way through, and now they are nothin shot of kickass, and my friend agrees there was no dif in power compaired to his hayes. and to sum of you boneheads they suck if you put chain lube on your brake pads!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mmiller
a Downhiller
from WA Date Reviewed: January 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any downhill
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good feel at the lever, nice stopping power, great wet weather abilities (as with any disc).
Weaknesses:
Squeal like a pig when they are cold and wet, (like most dics I would guess) but it only last about a second and only happens once in a while.
Similar Products Used:
Magura Hs-33s.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Bullit.
Bottom Line:
I can't give any comment on the longevity of these brakes, but I will say that I love them so far. I have been using the magura hs-33s up til recently and loved them. My only reason for changing was the Northweat riding. I ride alot and because of the grit and grime of winter I go through 2 sets of rims in the winter and another in the summer. I felt that it was time to change that so I talked with other riders and they seemed to like the Grimeca system 8s. My first ride they stopped as well as my good old maggies and they have been getting better every since. I have had them in some serious mud and water and the braking power and modulation has not changed one bit. I have had them on a couple of pretty long down hills and some pretty steep stuff and had very minimal fade. After I get some lift runs in early summer and have a few months in on them I will post back. As of now, so far so good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Downhiller
from bay area california Date Reviewed: January 27, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
clear coated brake lines, easy instalation
Weaknesses:
spongy lever feel,rotors warp every hard use,when they heat up the stopping power dropps off,leaky seals that ruin the finish,squeel very loud no matter what you do,pads wear too fast,no tech help-you have to use Shimmano replacement parts-there better anywhay,
Similar Products Used:
hope pro 3,hope dh4,Shimmano xt,and v-brakes
Bike Setup:
Storm Thunder ,Hope Dh 4,Marzocchi MCR QR20+,full XTR,Thompson Elite post and stem,Azonic a-frame pedals
Bottom Line:
If you want performance,low maintenance,and incredible stopping power,go with Hope or Hayes.If you are strapped for cash get the Shimmano xt's.The grimmeca disc has been trouble from the start.I was allways messing with them and could not get them to stop squeeling like that fat dude in "Deliverence".The rotor warped 2 weeks after i got them and had to constantly true them with a crescent wrench.After long descents the lever position to the bar would change,sometimes it would go all the way to the bar with no stopping power(the lever is supposed to stay the same distance to the handelbar in a closed system no matter how long or steep the descent).It allways felt like there was air in the lines no matter how or who bled the brakes.these brakes flat out SUCK!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark McInnes
a Downhiller
from Gold River BC Date Reviewed: January 24, 2001
Favorite Trail:
any DH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great Modulation, good power, cheap, easy to bleed (good thing becasue the factory bleed job is crappy)
Weaknesses:
the levers are flimsy. When you break'em just buy the shimano XT levers for a replacement.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano, Formula, RST
Bike Setup:
Balfa BB7 w/Monster T
Bottom Line:
Good brakes that provide great modulation and good braking power. If you feel confident in your brakes, you'll go faster; i'm going way faster. The guy below me must have had a defective pair. Mine are great.
PS always bleed these brakes as soon as you get them. Never ride on a factory bleed job.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TED MOBLEY
a Downhiller
from St. Albans, WV USA Date Reviewed: December 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mine
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
supergo bikes
Strengths:
Levers can be taken off without removing grips.
Weaknesses:
Everything.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, XT
Bike Setup:
Marin Quake 9.0, Race Face Turbine Cranks & seatpost, Azonic Riser Bars and Shorty Stem, XTR shifters & derailers, Bombshell BadBetty Fork, Sun Rhinolites w/XT disc hubs, Cane Creek Headset, Hayes Disc Brakes
Bottom Line:
I nearly killed myself on my first run downhill at 50mph. These brakes had absolutely no power. I could squeeze the brake levers back to the grips and I was still going 40mph on my first ride. I bled these brakes three times myself and then three times at my local bike shop. Niether had any effect. The instructions suck. Most of your instructions are in italian. The pics are small and fuzzy. Supergo was cool about it though. Even after I sent them in on warranty and then sending me back the same brakes with no effect on power. They took them back and refunded my cost.I heard these were good brakes. Similar to Hayes. Boy was I wrong. Maybe I was just an unfortunate shmuck, but If you want to risk your life, go ahead and don't forget to pray for a huge embankment to keep you from going...going....going....going......
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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