Accu-Push™ Technology - Pivoting arch moves pads so they maintain an ideal plane with the rim. The oversized, widely spaced pivots put minimal loads on the bushings. Pivot wear and slop is greatly reduced, enhancing brake efficiency.
The best V-brake i have ever used or seen. Fantastic Modulation especially when paired with Avid Ultimate levers. Probably the finest V-brake ever produced!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ez054098
a Cross Country Rider
from South Bay Date Reviewed: April 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
LG
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
So long ago I don't
Strengths:
Powerful stopping power. Better than most disc brakes. Great looks to boot.
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of.
Similar Products Used:
XTR V-brake
Bike Setup:
1993 Klein Attitude
Bottom Line:
I really miss the days of rim brakes. Disc brakes have zero sole. These are the most powerful rim brakes I have ever had.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Nor Cal Date Reviewed: September 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
where there is dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
craigslist
Strengths:
real easy to set up, centering the pads is a cake, looks cool, very light.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
ultimates,xtr's
Bottom Line:
This system works like a charm, I dont have to mingle with both sides of brakes to adjust it to center, I just loosen that little screw adjust then ride.... this is the best looking brakes in my opinion./ Levers are cool as-well bought these in sets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kyle Hewitt
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester, England Date Reviewed: April 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Hardsough (edenfield)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Leisure Lakes
Strengths:
Power, Modulation, Reliability
Weaknesses:
The fact they are a 'cable brake'
Similar Products Used:
XT V's, XTR V's, Hope 4 pots and Mini's, Hayes Mags 8"
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Chameleon dirt jump/DH/hard XC/everything bike
Bottom Line:
I bought these off Mark at Leisure Lakes as a customer had them taken off a Cannondale Carbon full suss thingy. I paid £50 for front and rears. They have been on the rear of my Santa Cruz Chameleon now for about 5 years now as the disc brake adaptor is a poor design and anyway with brakes this powerfull who needs disc's. The rear brake is as powerfull as a Hope Mini front hydraulic.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Maountain View, CA Date Reviewed: June 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
off the web
Strengths:
All of the wonderful things said below.
Weaknesses:
Eats throught rims like I wish I had Disc Brakes.
Similar Products Used:
V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
98 Ellsworth Truth, White Bros. SC-92, Hayes hydraulic in front, Arch Supreme in rear. Chris King hubs and Headset, Race Face / XTR / XT Drive train.
Bottom Line:
As a review of longtime use and abuse. They are built in a fashion that precludes ever needing to replace them. This brake taught me how to build wheels. I have never seen a set of rim brakes destroy rims like these do. My first season claimes a Sun Rhino-Lite. Season two and a half claimed a 517 and now in Season 4 I am halfway through my second 517. I bought a Park PS-2 so I could save the cost of having whels built all of the time. Overall, maybe its cheaper to run disc but I can't do rear disc on this fram without considerable upgread.
Bottom line, great product, bad timing!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik van Lier
a Cross Country Rider
from Driebergen Date Reviewed: June 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Brake power
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Deore, LX, XT, XTR V brakes
Bike Setup:
Merida MATTS, XT, Judy SL
Bottom Line:
I do not need to say more about the brakes, ´nuff said about it I think. Let´s talk about service. While I cleaned the brake levers, I lost one bearing ring (washer). In the mess on the floor I couldn´t find it again, so I gave a ring to Avid, no problemo Sir, we will send it to you. That´s what I mean SERVICE. Thnx to DAN from Avid. BTW, I live in The Netherlands, but it seems to be no prblem for the AVID guys. Thnx again!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Beach, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 16, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rock Creek near Mammoth
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bikes
Strengths:
Light weight, ease of setup.
Weaknesses:
Pricy, get a spare set of pads because most bike shops don't stock them.
Similar Products Used:
XTR, Magura Hydraulic rim brakes
Bike Setup:
Mountain Cycle Mojo w/Manitou Mars C, Mavic Crossmax, XTR.
Bottom Line:
Awesome stopping power, at least as good as XTR. Great adjustability when used in conjunction with Speed Dial Ultimate L levers. They look great.
Highly recommended to anyone who has a good amount of disposable income and likes to have their bike not be spec'd like everyone elses.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff M
a Weekend Warrior
from Lincoln, NE USA Date Reviewed: September 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Marin County
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
Can't Remember
Strengths:
These are "The" brakes" It's a real shame that Avid discontinued them because everyone that used them seemed to feel the same way as I do. Go Figure?
Weaknesses:
The plastic retainer for the tension spring is subject to breaking renedering the brake totally useless. Avid was "kinda" wonderful in that they sent me out some replacements, however I really don't trust a piece of plastic to hold up over time to insure that my brakes work, so I have had a set made out of stainless steel (avid should offer these as an upgrade)also be careful if you do use the plastic-they push on over the bolt, they DO NOT thread!
Similar Products Used:
WTB, Shimano
Bike Setup:
Seven Teres, XTR, King h/s
Bottom Line:
Toooooo Bad for anyone wanting these brakes, as I have heard that they are totally unavailable. Drop Avid a email and tell them they need to re-introduce them. There is simply not a better brake available anywhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Groff
a Racer
from San Diego CA Date Reviewed: September 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
I'll never tell
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Bike Empire
Strengths:
Super easy installation. No tools necessary on the trail. Great stopping power
I finally found a set!!! These brakes are definitely worth getting if you can afford and find a pair. Avid should go back into production on these. Who needs discs?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Avon Lake, OH USA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$290.00
Purchased At:
E-bay
Strengths:
design, tolerances, ease of adjustability, looks
Weaknesses:
unavailability
Similar Products Used:
Avid single digit Mag and SD 5
Bike Setup:
00 M2 Stumpjumper Pro - various quality upgrades, this was the last piece of the puzzle! Yeah right!
Bottom Line:
These are awesome! stopped on hills that had the Mags still rolling. Setup with Salsa booster upfront and DKG in back, beautiful setup!! search for them and buy them!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Bishop
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA USA Date Reviewed: July 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Brail Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Lightness, Stiffnes, Adjustable center-line, All-around stopping power
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Avid Tri-Align II
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, custom built
Bottom Line:
These brakes will stop you on a dime. They are light and stiff, easy to set up and ajust, possibly the best rim brake on the market.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from ATL Date Reviewed: July 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$210.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike
Strengths:
-Incredibly strong -Make me feel warm inside to know i wont die on a short stop -light, especially for the "disc-like" feel they have`
Weaknesses:
Theyre a little expensive, but if you dont like the price...dont buy them, its not hard to figure out.Dont complain about the price, just dont buy em. THEY'RE WORTH THE ADDED MONEY FOR THE INCREASED POWER
Similar Products Used:
Avid SD 5, Avid Arch Rival 50
Bottom Line:
They're expensive, but they're worth it for the added power. They look bad-ass, the power is awesome, they're light and they will stop you when you need it most.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Braking performance, ease of installation and set up, quality of construction, exclusivity
Weaknesses:
causes bike shop geeks to drool
Bottom Line:
Who needs disc brakes when you can ride these amazing, lightweight stoppers. Built like jewelry, easy to set up, perfect modulation, just incredible!
Does Avid still make these? Get them while you can, because you gotta think the market for high-end rim brakes is ending.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
anon.
a
from Europe Date Reviewed: July 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
work for bike manufacturer
Strengths:
look like a design exercise, work like a rotweiler clamped to your wheel.
Weaknesses:
they're too powerful for the bike I use them on, plus if you bought them full whack, you're hurting.
Similar Products Used:
XTR/XT/Hope/CODA/Avid Mechanical.
Bike Setup:
Cyclocrosser with 105 levers.
Bottom Line:
These look awesome, and for that reason alone I got them. They are hugely powerful, so much so, I can't really feel when they hit the rim on my cyclocrosser - so I guess it's not the best use for them. It's all about the looks, and these puppies have it.
On a more practical note, they're simple to set up, don't squeal, and have bags of stopping power. Buy them with the Ultimate levers and you can adjust the cable pull etc and complete the pimp package.
If you love biking - invest in your passion. Lay down whoever much it costs and enjoy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Simon Molyneux
a
from Southampton, England Date Reviewed: May 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Doethie Valley
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
GA Cycles,Southampton
Strengths:
Light weight Stiff Excellent modulation Fantastic braking performance Durability Just take a look !
Weaknesses:
Poor mud clearance Price They've stopped making them
Similar Products Used:
Shi*mano LX,XT,XTR c/w earplugs
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kahuna - you'll guess the rest
Bottom Line:
Married to ESP 9.0 SL levers and Goretex cables these are the bees leg joints.Superb braking performance although I would recommend a change to Shi*mano ceramic pads for use with Crossmax etc. No wear at all in the parallel push bit and the bearings are still running smooth. I run Hope C2's on my old Explosif and there is very little between the two systems apart from 1lb in weight!I haven't got the mud Arch so I would knock them down 1/2 a chili for mud clearance but they work SO well I'll put them up 1/2 a chili for performance. Really rather good. And shiny. Definitely a must have for serious racer bike tarts like myself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Anderson
a Cross Country Rider
from Cave Creek, Az. USA Date Reviewed: March 23, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere as long as its dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Airpark Bicycle
Strengths:
excellent modulation. beautiful craftsmanship, no slop , no rattles, squeals or embarrassing noises
Weaknesses:
You must be kidding.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT's , and other assorted crap.
Bike Setup:
Bontrager Race Lite. Atom Bombs, Race Face , Chris King , XTR's , Suntour XC Pro 8 speed thumb shifters, Gortex cables, etc. etc. etc.
Bottom Line:
There simply is no better mechanical brake on this planet. It is very easy to install and set up, and the modulation is fantastic. If you are one of those cross country folks that hasn't bought into the disc brake / hydraulic nonsense and you can still find a pair of arch supremes, do yourself a favor and get these even if you have to skip a few trips to Starbucks to pony up. An added benefit was realized after I broke a spring retainer and contacted Avid for a replacement. I spoke with Dennis in the technical service department on Monday and I had the parts on Friday. Not only that but he threw in a new pair of springs and a tool absolutely free, They even paid the postage. Talk about customer service....it doesn't get any better than that. Thanks Dennis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith d
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX USA Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Grapevine
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
excellent modulation and stopping power; low maintenance and no squealing.
Weaknesses:
Arch packs up a little when muddy. Product discontinued.
Similar Products Used:
Other lower-end Avid's; Nothing that compares.
Bike Setup:
01 RacerX w/ XTR & RaceFace and Avid Arch Supremes.
Bottom Line:
My Arch Supremes have really performed as good or better than I expected for the price. A little costly, but they just work so well. Excellent modulation allows controlled stopping power, especially in the front. Very easy to center and can be adjusted without tools. I probably would have gone to disc brakes by now, but no need to as long as I have these. Too bad Avid is no longer making them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a
from naperville, il Date Reviewed: January 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$95.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Very strong, no squeaks, no play in pads
Weaknesses:
shows your frame weakness, i used a brake booster centering adjustment is always needing to be adjusted, but it is simple to do
Similar Products Used:
shimano xtr
Bottom Line:
Best V-brakes I ever used, pay the extra money for these, they dont get play in the links like the XTR do. I put on 4 sets of XTR over 2 years, then I had these for over 2 years with no maintenance other than pad replacement.
Hayes disc are the only things better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RidgeRider
a Downhiller
from Peabody, MA USA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Ridge Trail, Lynn Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$109.00
Purchased At:
Frankford BMX
Strengths:
Quality construction, beautiful CNC work, sealed bearings and only the fly adjustment. Unbelievable stopping power, they definitely out perform a lot of disks out there....
Weaknesses:
Not the most ideal brakes for wide DH rims or DH tires measuring 2.3 or larger. The arches tend to catch rocks and take a real beating when you run wide rims and tires. The cost I guess (but they still cheaper than most hydraulic disks ).
Similar Products Used:
XTR V brakes, XT Disks, Hayes Disks and AMP Disks.
Bike Setup:
Spooky Metalhead, Z1 CR, Mavic 521's, Tioga 2.3 Factory DH tires, Profile SS Cranks... Freeride/Jumping set up.
Bottom Line:
A far as rim brakes go, these things rule and Avid has stopped making them for 2001, so their prices should come down. I run DH rims which made setting up the brakes a bit of a hassle, I had to swap spacers on the brake pads and do some bending to spring on the front brake (the spacing of the brake posts on the Z1 and the rim width weren't giving me a enough spring tension). These were minor inconveniences and I know that Avid did not design these brakes for this type of rim/tire combo. I've got them paired with the Ultimate levers and the stopping power is frightening. Everyone who rides my bike can't believe how well they work and for $350.00 (brakes + levers) they should!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jordan Kahlenberg
a Racer
from Shippensburg, Pa, USA Date Reviewed: December 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Dead Women's Hollow
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Guy's Bikes
Strengths:
These brakes are the best. If you read the review from the German guy, he must have gotten a defective set. These things make disc brakes look like an excuse to spend more money
Weaknesses:
Price for some, but not for me, cause I get mine free
Similar Products Used:
XTR V-brakes(pretty good, but not as good)
Bottom Line:
These brakes are hefty, and there are other brakes out there that work good and cost less, but these are the cream of the crop.
they make a statement. They say, i didn't spend all my money on my caddillac escalade pos, and my bmw and pt cruiser, so i thought i'd buy a lake golf house and some of these nice looking brakes here.
Weaknesses:
theres a cheaper version for about 70 bucks f/r. it works pretty da.. good, but i'll stick to aftermarket cnc'd stuff and shimano 00 xts. The xtr is overrated. heavy and have to adjust the pivots periodically with cone wrenches after dh'ing.
Whatever happened to having some strength? Are bikers getting soft? Must i take up free-climbing? You pusses can't even brake with xt? Do you weight 400lbs? lol.
Similar Products Used:
lx schitt, some crappy non hayes discs.
Bike Setup:
badass carbon hardtail
Bottom Line:
I wish i was making the salary plus for these! 5 flaming dodge neon r/t's for avid actually pulling this off, selling vbrakes for 300 dollars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose Date Reviewed: November 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
BikeWorld
Strengths:
Unreal braking power, flawless construction, ease of installation/adjustment.
Weaknesses:
Cost....I guess
Similar Products Used:
LX V's, Avid SD-1
Bike Setup:
K2 4000,Judy XC/Fox Ni, XT/XTR, Mavic Rims
Bottom Line:
Brakes are perfectly machined, easy to install and adjust, and will stop your bike RIGHT NOW no matter what the conditions. More importantly though....is the wide range of modulation I've noticed since switching from my Shimano LX 's. LX's were much lighter in construction (even though they weigh more!) and didn't really "kick-in" unless you put a bit of pressure on the levers...then would frequently howl (yes my pads were towed in the right amount) under the braking stress. The Supreme's can really be feathered for just the right amount of control on tech trails or you can really stomp on them for immediate change of momentum. An extremely high quality product that anyone who can afford should buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: October 5, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Power, modulation, precision, servicability, ease of instalantion and adjustment
These brakes ROCK! Totally superior to any other direct pull caliper and maybe even some of the disc setups (no dragging pads and now futzing with adjustments, bleeding, etc.) find myself going harder because I know the brakes are there 110%. Yeah, they look cool, but the function and quality of workmanship is outstanding. This is a much cheaper alternative than going for a full disc conversion. Don't know about performance of the pads in wet conditons, yet. Say good bye to brake squeal. Say hello to true "one finger" operation. for best results go with the Avid Ultimate SD levers. the brakes are kinda expensive for linear pull, but a bargain when compared to discs, so 5 smokin' chilies all around.
BTW - saw in a review of interbike that Avid will no longer make the Supreme next year -- get yours now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gregor y Papazian
a Cross Country Rider
from So. Cal. Date Reviewed: August 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Betty Dearing
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Helens cycles
Strengths:
Design is state of the art. Adjustability is the easiest I have seen. The nick name for the brakes should be lockjaw.
Weaknesses:
They won't fit on Marzochi z1 x flys,the brace get in the way.
Bike Setup:
Santa cruz superlight with z1 x flys, race face xtr ect.
Bottom Line:
For non disc brakes you shouldn't look any further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
erin stahl
a Cross Country Rider
from la verne, california, usa Date Reviewed: July 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Excellent appearance; beautiful machined components; sealed&rebuildable cartridge bearings; built in arch; easy brake alignment mechanism; excellent stopping power; little to no fade during prolonged braking periods.
Weaknesses:
None to date.
Similar Products Used:
Avid 1.9(?) V-Brakes; '98 Shimano LX V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
'98 Schwinn S-10 All-Mountain (isolated rear triangle w/ composite bushings); '98 Rock Shox Judy XL w/ Bicycle Parts Pacific/Englund Air Cartridges and Mountain Speed Speed Seals front shock; Risse Racing rear shock; '98 Rock Shox/AMP Technologies mechanical disk brake-front; Avid Arch Supreme-rear; Kore Elite Stem; Easton MonkeyLite CT2 Carbon Fiber Hi-rise Bar and seat post; Selle Italia Flite saddle with titnium rails; Gore Ride on Cable Systems-brake & derailleur set; Shimano LX components
Bottom Line:
The best aesthetic and performance v-brake I've seen. If you are a money concious rider than this brake ranging from $120.00-$150.00/brake is probably not suited for you. Also there are other Avid brakes and more discriminant aftermarket vendors who can provide you with a lighter v-brake option if weight is a concern. But if you like the appearance, have enough money, and are not concerned with gram counting than this is a solid choice.
I should also mention the brake alignment mechanism. Other v-brakes use individual tensioning springs to align the brake pads in association with the rim brake pad surface. The Arch Supreme uses only one tensioning spring that is adjusted using a finger operated gnurled set screw. Adjustment takes only seconds and can be done anywhere without the use of tools.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T.R.
a Cross Country Rider
from Germany Date Reviewed: July 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The Avid Arch Supreme is a fine CNC machined V-Brake. It offers well sealed bearings and a good breaking performance. It's braking power is good and the modulation is fine. It's easy to adjust and to install.
Weaknesses:
At the beginning on rough, hard Downhills the springs of the brake leave their place on the brake arms. To avoid this you have to bend the springs a little bit. The mud clearance of the standard arch is bad, but you can buy a wider arch. It's difficult to set up the adjustment knob of the springs, when the break is dirty an the weather is wet. The little screws on the brakes are not very durable. The front break squeals in combination with a SID Race and a Mavic Ceramic. The Rim Wrangler Pads are not Shimano compatible, you can not install a Shimano brake pad on the Rim Wranglers. Avid offers no Ceramic pad, and the Shimano pads do not fit correctly, so I choose Shimano cardridge pads on my Arch Supremes. They don't perfom better than a XTR V-Brake.
Similar Products Used:
XTR-V-brake which works as well as the Arch Supremes, but did not squeal
Bike Setup:
Ti- Frame with SID Rac
Bottom Line:
The Arch Supreme is a good, nice -looking V-Brake. It has a few weaknesses, which in my opinion are not aceptable for a brake of this price. I would not buy them again, because you can get a XTR- V- Brake for much less money, which performs as well as the Arch Supreme. The Arch Supreme is not the ultimate V Brake as you could believe, if you read some of the reviews. It's good, but not worth the money. In my opinion it has no advantages to an XTR - V-Brake, Perhaps it's made in the USA and it's looking nicer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton Date Reviewed: July 17, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Everything, the brakes are killer.
Weaknesses:
no product weaknesses, just the occasional blemish in their customer service.
Similar Products Used:
see old review
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kahuna
Bottom Line:
Just a follow up to my previous review, Dennis from Avid e-mailed me and sent me the parts I was looking for, thanks very much! It still took several months but all is well now. Just to add, Shawn "I don't buy stuff from companies that offer poor customer service", you never know until you have to deal with them, in this case it took quite a while to get a response, although I'm sure lots of people have had great service from Avid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Golden Valley, MN Date Reviewed: July 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Battle Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Incredible machining, no slop, sealed bearings.. everything about the brakes!
Weaknesses:
absolutly nothing!
Similar Products Used:
LX,XT,XTR V's, Avid 1d's
Bike Setup:
Independent Fabrication Deluxe, XTR Levers, Girvin Crosslink Elite, Sun rims
Bottom Line:
Absolutly the best brakes I have ever used! Had them for a bit over 2 years now, and they are as rock-solid as ever. No slop, no problems. If you can afford them and find them, buy them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shawn
a Racer
from clemson sc Date Reviewed: July 2, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
High power, good looks, easy adjustment, very precise build quality
Weaknesses:
some say price, but I think they are worth it
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR, Avid SD20
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth sub22, XTR, race lite wheels, king headset, sid sl, arch supremes (of course), frog pedals
Bottom Line:
These are the best brakes I've ever used. Worth every penny. Simple to adjust and very strong. Also, I don't buy from companies with poor customer service and Avid has always been a pleasure to deal with. Forget discs, these brakes with ceramic rims can't be beat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, AB, Ca Date Reviewed: June 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
The brakes are the best going for everything but serious DH
Weaknesses:
Amazingly poor customer service
Similar Products Used:
XTR V's, misc. Avids, Hayes, Tons of cantelever brakes
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kahuna, XTR, Raceface, Chris King, Marz. A-bomb
Bottom Line:
The brakes can't be beat but Avids customer service sure can. I have been trying to get some replacement bolts and washers for 5 months now, I have e-mailed them 4-5 times, they responded positively the first time but haven't answered since. I haven't been a jerk, haven't been swearing, and can't get a response. It's the worst customer service I have encountered in 20 years of biking, and having worked in the bike industry for 13 years that's saying something. I hope it's just a case of a useless customer service manager and not standard Avid policy. 5 chilies for the brakes, 0 for service so an average of 3.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross Country Rider
from Ventura, CA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Easy set-up, very little maintainence. They do not squeel!
Weaknesses:
Cost
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
CAAD4 Cannondale hardtail, XTR (except brakes and levers)
Bottom Line:
After several adjustments, replacement pads and parts, upgrades and add-ons I threw my Shimano brakes away. Bolted these on and they work perfectly. Every year or so you'll want to replace the stainless W-springs. Perfect for the high-end buyers who are tired of fussing with their v-brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ed gy
a Weekend Warrior
from L.A. Ca. usa Date Reviewed: April 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any open sgltrak longer than 300 yards
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
unreal machinework, fantastic design detail, literally perfect function. NO NOISE, NO FADE!!!!
Weaknesses:
tight clearances, catch mud and trail crap in arch etc, pretty pricey, even used on mktplace IF you can find 'em! it took me 2 mo's of HARD looking daily to find a used set for $150!
Similar Products Used:
xt, xtr, avid 2.0, Magura hydro hs 22/33 Cane Creek Direct Curve, diacomp, v's, Hope & Hayes Ft. Disc brakes.........
Bike Setup:
Med. Max BB FSR w/Fox air van. float, WB dc110 fork, mavic 217's GT hubs DT db Spokes Alloy Spline drive nips, RF cranks rings, xtr der's, cogsets etc etc, All hardware is Ti.......25.4 lbs
Bottom Line:
These things Rule!!!! they are by far the best mechanical (or hydro) rim brake EVER!!
The only thing better in the front of a bike than these brakes is a disc system and that is only by the slightest of margins mainly concerning debris clearance and performance in the wet.... The power & MODULATION, MODULATION, MODULATION is unreal!
i've been using a hope sport up front and have been testing a Hayes also and the power of the Arch's is virtually the same, the modulation is SOOOO close i can't tell the diff after a couple rides, if you are a weight weenie with the need for the best front brake around at any price, i'd def go with these i gave up the hope sport on my FSR for these as a trial and i'm keepin' 'em!! I'll leave the Hope on the Hardtail... i polished the pair i bought used for $150! with some simichrome polish ,a rag, and a dremel, and the things are like CHROME!! they look sooooo sweeeet, i almost dont wanna ride'em & get 'em all dirty.... ALOT of dige for the set but they are worth it!!! you will ride stuff that you would definitely not have before if only for the ability to modulate the brakes power thru the hairiest sections with out lunching on the stem, flipping over the bars or scaring the crap outta yerselves with a inadvertent bonzai run to the bottom when your brakes fade away......
i think i'm sellin the hayes brake !!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim
a Weekend Warrior
from cincinnati, ohio Date Reviewed: April 1, 2000
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
smooth, powerful unbelievable workmanship easy to adjust
Weaknesses:
price hard to find pads
Similar Products Used:
xtr, paul crosstop, magura
Bike Setup:
litespeed obed
Bottom Line:
excellent brakes. i took them apart to service them, and the individual cnc'd pieces wouldn't fit back together. but then i took a drip bottle of tri-flo and coated the interlocking portions of the components in question, and bingo, the parts slid smoothly together again. tolerances are unbelievable. i talked to someone at avid asking them if they would ever be available in colors, but they said that the thickness of the anodization would interfere with the brakes' tolerances. these brakes are unbelievably powerful. i ride trials, and while most trials riders use maguras, i am just fine with my avids. i can stop on a dime on the back wheel with these brakes, even after rather large pedal kicks. they are also the easiest brakes in the world to adjust- no toe-in, springs adjusted manually via a single knob. two complaints: price, and availability of pads. they really aren't worth the money unless you are really rich or just like having really well-made stuff on your bike. they do work noticeably better than shimano xt (even the new ones w/ beefed up linkages). i have had one brake for three years, and the pivots still have yet to develop any slop. they last a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose
a Cross Country Rider
from Mountain View, CA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
you closed them all...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Correction to previous review: DO NOT USE WITH Y2K MARZOCCHI FORKS WITH "M" ARCH. I was wrong. The clearance is really tight & becomes dangerous under hard braking. Using spacers is a bad idea: side loads the brake bearings & the mounting posts. Bad Bad Bad. Don't do it.
If you don't have a Y2K Marzocchi then you're stoked because you can use these brakes (with yr fork that probably sucks compared to a Marzocchi). Oh well
Weaknesses:
Well I'd say the price, but you all know that. Hey, would you like a good deal on a 1972 Ford Pinto, or do you wanna drive something nice, huh?
Similar Products Used:
Avid, XTR, XT etc.
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth with all the goodies
Bottom Line:
Maybe Marzocchi will redesign their arch or mounting posts so you can have the best brakes with the best fork. I ain't holdin' my breath though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: February 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Incredibly powerful, great modulation & feel. The front Arch Supreme matches the feel & power of my rear Hayes disc brake.
Weaknesses:
A little pricey, but worth every penny.
Similar Products Used:
Various Shimano V-brakes, Hayes disc brakes
Bike Setup:
'00 Schwinn 4-Banger, XTR left lever, Hayes hydraulic r. brake
Bottom Line:
Outstanding. I switched out the front OEM Hayes disc brake to save some weight. Absolutely no regrets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Massachusetts Date Reviewed: February 29, 2000
These things are almost too strong. My Trek dealer warned me that these are strong and he was right. I almost went over the handle bars on my second ride. Who needs disks when you have these? A lot of people complain about the price, I got mine for $300. I am a CNC machinist and I can say these are worth every penny. Five chilis for a great value and five more for being the best brakes ever made.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bwana
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in K-Country
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Incredibly strong, great modulation, slick looks.
Weaknesses:
Big Bucks!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT and XTR v-brakes, ArchRival 50s, other Avid.
These are the most incredible brakes I've ever used. Although they're expensive, I believe they're worth every penny. I'm surprised how much they've improved my riding - largely I'd say because of improved confidence. I'm a fairly big guy (205 lbs.) and these brakes can stop me on a dime, even from very high speeds/steep attacks. I'm able to use the brakes less now because they have better modulation and better stopping power, giving me better control. I don't find I have any problems with fade, and I haven't encountered any issues with squeal (tried on Mavic 517 and 221 rims). If you can afford 'em, get 'em. You won't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose
a Cross Country Rider
from Mountain View, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 20, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
No slop, amazing power, quick adjustment, pimpin' looks
Weaknesses:
Actually, these will work with year 2000 Marzocchi forks with the "M" brace - installed 'em on a Z2 Atom 80 by slightly crimping the cable noodle-holder with pliers (for clearance). Expensive brakes, but look at all that machining!
Similar Products Used:
XTR V, XT V, Avid 1.0 V
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Truth - XTR,z2 x-fly,king/Valiant, & all the goods
Bottom Line:
Buy 'em if you want the best V-brake made, period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J Sekera
a Weekend Warrior
from Warren CT Date Reviewed: February 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Weaknesses:
The Arch supreme is NOT COMPATABLE with any marzocchi products with the "M" brace. I Contacted Avid about it and they confirmed it.
Bottom Line:
Hey they could always lower the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
uroskie andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkeley Date Reviewed: February 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
any one they won't throw me off of
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Where to begin? There's simply the ultimate experience in braking. They are infinitely adjustable (on the fly), they look incredible, and they stop on a dime.
Weaknesses:
I experienced none. They're too expensive for most people to afford. I got mine free from Avid, so I was living large (until my bike was stolen). In fact, that's a minus - they look so damn good from far away, it's going to make everyone want to steal your bike.
Similar Products Used:
the rest of the avid line, LX and XT's, etc. XT v's are good, but nothing compares (haven't tried discs, I ride XC).
Bike Setup:
DBR frame, XTR comps, Z3 fork
Bottom Line:
If you have the money, buy them. I must have spent an hour just looking at them before I installed them - they're a museum piece. The machining and design are unreal - and they work as good as they look. Avid's customer support is great too.
Bottom line, if you're like most people, they're too expensive for you. If you're reading this, I assume you think you have the money and want them. You definitely want them, trust me!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron
a Cross Country Rider
from Cupertino, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
excellent modulation more than sufficient stopping power they look phenomenal
Weaknesses:
They look so good, I am afraid somebody carrying some tools might steal them right off my bike!
Similar Products Used:
Avid 1d 20 XT brakes
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude Race '99, XTR levers
Bottom Line:
Wow - I would not have thought it possible that a simple component upgrade like this would improve my riding ability so markedly. These brakes are expensive, but if I had only known what they would accomplish, I would have gotten them a long time ago. The modulation performance is far beyond what I had been accustomed to until now. They were very easy for me to install (I am so mechanically challenged that I have someone else replace my chain!) and they are so easy to adjust that it is fair to say they essentially do not require adjustment! They make no noise - these beauties are seen and not heard.
Without a doubt, these brakes are the pinnacle of V-brake technology. To look at them, I wonder why anybody would bother to construct such an elegant product for a "bicycle."
The quality of the Avid Arch Supreme goes to the point of being bizarre. Now that disc brakes are coming of age I doubt there will ever be a more advanced V-brake than these.
Except for really wet/muddy conditions, I cannot imagine preferring disc over these. I rarely ride in such conditions. I don't need any greater modulation nor any more stopping power either.
Anyway, I have a lot more control over my bike when braking on steep declines now, which allows me to brake less, which means I am going faster! That's the bottom line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Sandstrom
a Racer
from Pocatello, ID Date Reviewed: January 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything technical UP & DOWN
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Superb braking power. Zero flex on the arms. Stock pads work great in any conditions. Great modulation in the front.
Weaknesses:
Hey the price. Your paying for quality though.
Similar Products Used:
XT old & new (didn't like) WTB Cantilever LX Avid Arch Rival (Great)
Bike Setup:
Kona Hot
Bottom Line:
No need for disc when you have this brake in the front. Won't recommend use in the rear, not enough modulation. If the moneys there get it. Downhill performance will increase. Faster cornering and more confidence.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eddie kryk
a Cross-Country Rider
from euless,tx. Date Reviewed: December 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
cedar hill state park
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Strengths:
smooth,strong braking power.easy to set up.they look damn good as well.
Weaknesses:
price.had to find some sort of complaint
Similar Products Used:
xtr
Bike Setup:
santa cruz s.lite with a superfly(soon to be an x-2 fly)c.c. ad-10 rear
Bottom Line:
xtr brakes(99 model) are not bad brakes.but comparing them to the supremes is not fair.i have put the bike into the same turns at the same speed and the avid's are far superior.you certainly pay for the performace though.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler
a Racer
from Comox, B.C. Date Reviewed: November 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Two sheeks and a dog
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Easy setup and adjustments. Kick ass sealed bearings and no slop! Easy centering device, lots of power to the rim
Weaknesses:
none considering how sweet they are
Similar Products Used:
Magura XTR
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler and Manitou X-vert R, also on a Rocky Mountain Vertex T.O. and Manitou SX Ti, and last, a Rocky Mountain Element T.O. and Rock Shox SID XC
Bottom Line:
It's simply the best
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross-Country Rider
from Livingston, NJ Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
S. Mountain
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Superb stopping Light Easy to change pads Well made - look classy Very easy to center wheel
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none!
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR
Bike Setup:
Cannondale SuperV 2000
Bottom Line:
These brakes are the best v's you can buy. They stop incredibly well, are super easy to center with arch adjuster, don't squeal, and should be bought by any serious rider that doesn't want to go disc. They can be expensive, but you can find deals on these if you search the net. I got mine for about $109 each.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Ryckaert
a Weekend Warrior
from Fayetteville, AR Date Reviewed: September 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Certainly the centering design is awesome. The machining and workmanship is impressive.
Weaknesses:
They are NOISY. Mavic 217 rim and it is loud and nasty.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano LX was the standard brake on our '99 Santana Team AL tandem.
Bike Setup:
I only have a front on a '99 Santana Team AL road tandem. Rear is a Formula disk.
Bottom Line:
I love the way this brake works but it's so noisy that I use the rear disk as much as possible so that people don't stare at us. On the other hand when I fried my disk the other night, I leaned on the Avid and it stopped us down a hill with combined rider weight of 320lbs. Can't go five chilis because of noise and price.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
garrett
a Cross-Country Rider
from Santa Barbara Date Reviewed: September 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Skyline trail in near Palo Alto
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
WOW, I had squeeling problems on my cannondale front end with XTR's because of slop in pivoting. These brakes have no play and modulate like maguras. From first glance, you can see that they put some serious engeineering and time into these. The finished product came nothing short of amazing.
Weaknesses:
what weaknesses.. oh yeah.. $$$
Similar Products Used:
Cantilevers XT and XTR V-brakes Magura hydraulics
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Caad 4 with Fatty Ultra crossmax, xtr, the whole shabang
Bottom Line:
If you want the best V-type brakes and have the $$$ to spend, look no further. The craftsmanship and attention to detail makes these brakes exciting to use as well as look at. Or if you are as annoyed with squeeling brakes as I was.. you should make the jump over to the Avid Arch Supreme Deluxe. Oh yeah.. the packagings is just as cool as the brakes themselves. Thumbs up to Avid
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from Milwaukee, Wisconsin Date Reviewed: September 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Beautiful to look at! Wonderful to set up! Terrific modulation and power!
Weaknesses:
Pricey
Similar Products Used:
Magura hydraulics cheap linear pulls
Bike Setup:
On Trek R200 RECUMBENT
Bottom Line:
These are on a full XTR/Dura-Ace bike, and riders ALWAYS remark first about the modulation of these brakes
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Cross-Country Rider
from Thailand Date Reviewed: September 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all over
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
absolutely no play easy to adjust no noise, EVER fantastic modulation
Weaknesses:
too close to the rim price
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR
Bike Setup:
Ultimate L levers
Bottom Line:
I didn't believe that the XTR brake could be improved upon. These were noticeably better the first time I pulled the levers. I can brake harder approaching corners and on downhills. Best of all is the great confidence they inspire.As for the price, a professionaly machinist friend of mine looked at the levers and brakes. His comment was that for such metal workmanship they were cheap. Artistry and perfection always costs.Only problem is in muddy conditions they seem to catch more mud than other brakes I've had. I'm tempted to give a 4 because of the clearence problem, but they are so damn good!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Racer
from Spartanburg, SC Date Reviewed: September 5, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Precision build quality, great modulation, look awesome, very easy to adjust.
Weaknesses:
High price but I have to say they are worth it.
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR
Bike Setup:
Schwinn Homegrown factory team, SID SL, XTR, Race Lite wheels.
Bottom Line:
Just got 'em and they are awesome. A bit pricey, but if you ever take a close look at a pair you can see why. Very easy to set up. Back to the drawing board Shimano!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
crusty
a Racer
from moab Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999
Favorite Trail:
enima pass
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Killer stopping power!
Weaknesses:
Too much money!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Alivio
Bike Setup:
Huffy Hardtail
Bottom Line:
These brakes are radical I wish I could afford a pair!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from Manchester Date Reviewed: June 16, 1999
Favorite Trail:
hobbs
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
easy set up and they look a hell of a lot cooler that a set of shims
Weaknesses:
price, but then again i work in a bike shop so i get them pretty cheep
Similar Products Used:
xt lx xtr dia cheese
Bike Setup:
klein pulse
Bottom Line:
they are cool and stop well these are the balls .if you are sick of shimano then this is the way to go
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Byrns
a Cross-Country Rider
from Atkins, AR Date Reviewed: May 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Womble
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Easy to adjust. Look cool They work all the time!
Weaknesses:
None found
Similar Products Used:
Avid 1.0 Avid 2.0 Lx XT
Bike Setup:
Klein Mantra XT except for the brakes and levers.
Bottom Line:
Man, there ain't no better brakes out there. Trust me on this one. These brakes combined with Avid 2.0 levers is the sweetest settup on the planet. If you can afford these brakes, buy them now! If you can't afford them, (save up) You won't regret the purchase. Installation is a breeze. A monkey could set these babies up. Go get em!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rich beyond belief
a Racer
from get a clue Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
more than 3 years
Bottom Line:
hey money d*ckhead - you fuking kunt. get a fuking job you lame as loser.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Low on Cash
a Racer
from MONEY WORLD Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Bottom Line:
I want to know how any racer can afford to buy these brakes, then have money left over to race!?!?!?!?!?!? Avid need to do something with the price!!! :-(
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Bell
a Weekend Warrior
from Modesto, Ca Date Reviewed: May 12, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Power line, Lake Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Incredible, Probably the strongest V-Brakes I have ever used. I am also still using my Shimano LX levers
Weaknesses:
Retractor spring Is fickle when you pop the wheel off the fork. Must use caution when attaching the noodle.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
GT 3000 LTS RTS High 5 fork.
Bottom Line:
Incredible, It will take alot to convince me to use another brake unless something better comes along. The speed dial centering is a revolution. I can stop on a dime. I hope my rims and shock hold up.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
justin jeffries
a Weekend Warrior
from bolingbrook illinois Date Reviewed: April 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
knock knolls
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
strenghts strong
Weaknesses:
not weak
Similar Products Used:
lx xt dia crap
Bike Setup:
gary fisher betty fh2
Bottom Line:
these are the second pair some like the xt-xtr I do two but my wrencher really likes the sram levers and they work great with the grip shift which alot of people here like also for the $ and composite get um they'll work period 4 hot ones
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a weekend warrior
from Date Reviewed: March 9, 1999
Bottom Line:
I have not tried out this product yet, but I ordered a catalog from them. It took 4 days for them to send me a catalog! Four days! that's incredibly fast, meaning they pay alot of attention to the requests, and process them in the same day. this might be similar to their service and repairs.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Crash
a cross-country rider
from Radford, Va Date Reviewed: March 3, 1999
Bottom Line:
This review is relating to the Arch 40's, which I've been riding for about a month. The only real disadvantage to this brake is the way the arch can tend to collect mud, leaves, etc as you run down the trails. On the plus side however they beat the hell out of XT and XTR as far as Parrellel Push braking goes. The only slop I've seen in mine is watching the brake pivots flexing on my Judy. The pads have held up fairly well, and they are really easy to set up and dial in to perfection. I agree with the common idea here, they are a little pricey, especially if you're checking out the Arch Supremes, but the Rival 40's are a great way to go towards superior braking. Just don't be surprised when you start picking up a few leaves every now and then. I'll say four Mr Hankeys
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tord Astad
a racer
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999
Bottom Line:
These brakes are probably the best v-brakes in the world.They`re not too stiff and not too soft.You can fine adjust them like no other v-brakes in the world.I`ve been racing with these brakes now for one season and I can`t find any mistakes with them.It also takes some time between each time I have to change the brakepads.The brakelevers are firstclass levers and knock out the XTR`rs.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gilbert
a cross-country rider
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: February 26, 1999
Bottom Line:
This is simply the best mechanical brake money can buy. Yes it's true that the brake offers superior performance to other cantis, sidepulls. Dual pivot bearings in each arm. These brakes are engineered. Enough praise has been said about how well they work. I want to talk about sound. Remember riding Northeastern rocky singletrack and scaring everyone with the rattle of your vee's? Not anymore, not only has Avid made a brake without any slop, it is easier to adjust and setup. There are fewer moving parts, and the brake pads are easier to move into a position you want them. No loose or wobbly parts. No more buying shim kits just to keep your brakes working properly. These brakes are made the way you're supposed to make brakes. They are worth every penny of their price. You will never need to buy brakes again.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Super V Jim
a weekend warrior
from Misawa, Japan Date Reviewed: February 26, 1999
Bottom Line:
I use the Arch Supremes on my HeadShok Fatty D--awesome brake set! Absolutely no complaints. Even for the $110 they cost, they're still a deal considering how much more control they offer over the Shimano V-brakes. You can go from a very contropllable/slight braking force to over the handlebars all with just one finger.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a cross-country rider
from Vic, Aust Date Reviewed: February 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
I don't own these brakes and wouldn't buy them. My LBS showed me a new bike they had in stock that had these fitted as OEM, and they ALREADY had movement. Is this a factory option? Pre-wear? He then showed me three other sets he was sending back to the factory, after they were returned by angry customers. They might work well for a while, but $300 worth of brakes every couple of months doesn't sit with me.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a cross-country rider
from Vic, Australia Date Reviewed: February 17, 1999
Bottom Line:
The review below is actually for Arch Rival's, not the Arch Supreme. I don't know if the Arch Supreme suffers similar problems, but the Rival's really need looking at, and perhaps a new design of the mounting pivots. Apologies to anyone offended - I've had mail!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Stewart
a weekend warrior
from San Diego, CA USA Date Reviewed: January 29, 1999
Bottom Line:
What can I say? Overpriced, overrated, disappointing!I was very excited by all the hype of these brakes. I forked out the big bucks to give them a try. I've been using them for several months now and I am very disappointed. They really don't work any better than a set of LX V-brakes or similar, the pads wear out very quickly and replacement pads can be very difficult to find at times. Avid Customer service is less than stellar as well.For the price of these brakes I just can't recommend them.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin
a weekend warrior
from Canada Date Reviewed: January 16, 1999
Bottom Line:
Avid arch are nice but too pricie, so I bought the avid arch rival 50 with the 2.0 levers and holy shit in the mud, rain, snow anywhere you can take your bike these brakes can and will stop you. If you are wondering how much they cost the front and rear with levers cost $165 so now even the cheap boys can own sweet ass brakes
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a
from Malaysia Date Reviewed: January 14, 1999
Bottom Line:
If money is an issue, then the Arch Supremes are probably not the best value out there. But they really are nice! The quick-adjust screw really does work, as does the float feature (in case you prang a wheel). It really does have the feel of a precision instrument. Of course, the pivots run on sealed cartridge bearings, so I do not expect slop or rattling, which was the case with the XTR V brakes that these replaced.Some down sides to the Avids, though: (1) The Avids are not the best in mud, expecially the clayey mud (laterite) that is common here in the tropics. Mud collects on the arches and promptly falls onto your fork seals at the first bump. Not good, but not a fatal flaw. I can live with that.(2) The float mechanism also means that you cannot adjust the spring tension of the arms (short of physically bending the spring). Again, no biggie as the tension seems very nice stock thank you very much. You CAN get adjustable spring tension if you buy the alternative wider arch (which also solves problem (1) above, BTW).(3) The way the spring is set up creates a tendency for the springs to pop out in very rough terrain if you like running the pads far from the rim (ie the levers engaging late into its throw). This happened to me on my very first ride with them. This is despite using the narrower washers inboard of the arms (bringing the arms closer together and preloading the springs more). Fortunately, the brakes still works even with the springs out, and the problem has not recurred after more than 2 months.(4) The pad mounting bolts are cheesy in the extreme, developing rust spots after just a few weeks.In summary, despite the small irritations that I have with the Avids, they outperform the XTR, principally due to a better executed linear-travel pad mechanism. Get them if money is no object. In fact I would sooner get the XT than the XTR.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Volker Nikodemus
a cross-country rider
from Ilshofen, Germany Date Reviewed: January 9, 1999
Bottom Line:
The Avid Arch supreme is better the Shimano XT, XTR it is the best. The Price is to high. In Germany cost one break 380.- DMDie Avid Arch supreme ist die beste V-Brake die es gibt. Sie ist einfach zu montieren und einzustellen. Die bremsleistung ist hervorragend. Der einzige nachteil ist der Preis ( Stückpreis von 380.- DM ).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin
a cross-country rider
from Mexico Date Reviewed: December 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
I Do Agree with mostly all of the users reviews. I also have a Manitou SX Ti Fork and it´s a little hard to remove/install the front weel. Well...nothing´s perfect. But Now I´m really worried because just yesterday the small black plastic boltlike (I don´t know how to call it)that supports the U Shape wire in my rear brake disapeared, thus the wire got stuck in my left shoe and that´s how I noticed. Obviously it won´t brake Ok until this get properly fixed. So Please HELP ME!! This piece comes attached with an Allen bolt. I bought my brakes at Circle Cycle and have an address in San Diego (I live in Mexico) Please send me an answer.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Davide
a weekend warrior
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: December 22, 1998
Bottom Line:
I used an Avid Arch supreme in the front for fifteen months. It is a great breake offerening superior control of breaking power. It can really go from face plant power to barely slowing you down and all it takes is a one finger action.I tried XT/XTR V-breakes and the main difference is really control. With a Shimano I always had the feeling of ... being close to a face plant if I was not careful. It might be due to set up but that is another point in favour of the Aids: trivial set up! It takes nothing to set these brakes right.Powerwise, I think they are much better than the disks I tried (Amp and RS). I used them with ceramic rims and never had a problem with fading.The only problem might eb the weak return spring
Davide
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Submitted by
Diamond
a cross-country rider
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: November 17, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have been running these brakes for the along with the ultumate levers for the last year, with absolutely no complaints, only raves. Unbeliveable power, great molduldation, buttery smooth bearings at all pivots (including the levers) Slightly heavier than Shamino, but much lighter than Magura's or discs. Centering your brakes has never been easier, looks completely gorgeous. Very Pricey, but when you have to lay on them, they stop in a dime and give you nine cents change.
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Submitted by
chris
a cross-country rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: October 18, 1998
Bottom Line:
Nothing in this planet is perfect. These brake set is no exception. Bad things are priceness, silver only so bad, deflat-tire oriented with Manitou forks, no spring rate adjustment that I want it so much like XTR's, rusty brake bolts after months of training..... However, they are the only among simular products that never rattle and so generate no big hum that is loud enough to scar an old woman to death on the street. The pads come with them are great too any rims even the ceramic ones and never wear excessively. If you can't find them, replace it with koolstops, because they came from same factory. Power and modulation are unparallel provided you know how to set things up. My conclusion is, this brake set is like the BMW cruiser of James Bond in the world of motorcycle. The best period. The only better thing would be using them front and rear with the newest matching Avid billet levers.
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Submitted by
Zach Owen
a cross-country rider
from Provo Utah Date Reviewed: October 16, 1998
Bottom Line:
Someone offered to by my XTR v-brakes off me and I knew what I had to have. These were a breeze to install and have more adjustability than the driver's seat of a Lexus. Not only that but they will stop you quicker than a kick in the teeth from Jackie Chan.
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Submitted by
Dave Twinam
a cross-country rider
from Lakewood, CO Date Reviewed: September 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
While I love the stopping power and adjustability of the Arch Supreme's, I do have one significant complaint. I ride a 98' Manitou SX Ti, and with the Arch Supreme, you must do battle every time you remove/replace the front wheel. It would appear that I could solve the problem by buying a new fork, but that's a ridiculous solution (IMHO). If you but the Arch Supreme's just make sure that you have a wide stance fork.
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Submitted by
Ted Noring
a cross-country rider
from IA Date Reviewed: September 17, 1998
Bottom Line:
These Brakes are incredible! I just replaced my Maguras with the Supremes and the new Ultimate L Levers. Nice set-up! The Maguras had great power, but they'd cramp my hands after a while. Not with the Supremes! Great modulation with little force needed at the levers. If you ride cross-country, forget disc brakes (which I have nothing against, they're great too) and go with the Avid Arch Supremes!!
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Submitted by
Justin
a racer
from SSF, CA Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
Did you remember the difference between caliber brakes and V brakes? Well, after purchasing AVID ARCH SUPREMES, the difference was just as noticeable when upgrading from XTR V brakes. These brakes are awesome. The main reason I got these was because when my Bontrager rims got wet and muddy going down hill, I just couldn't get enough stopping power (I do not like ceramic rims). With AVID, I was happy. One minor complaint. I notice much rattling when hitting the bumps. It's from the noodle banging on the swivel arm bracket (as with all V Brakes). Also, this bracket that connects to the noodle should is somewhat loose which also rattles. It would be nice to see bushings on the swivel arms. Otherwise, a great product. Oh yeah, regarding that guy about rim wrangler pads. Who the heck usually buys the same pads that came stock with brakes anyways?
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Submitted by
Paul
a cross-country rider
from Naperville, IL Date Reviewed: August 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
If you REALLY want to stop, you can't do any better than with these. Efficient, reliable, incredibly designed, and they look like they came out of the Museum of Modern Art. I'm extremely pleased with both the brakes and matching levers. The only complaint I have is the inability to have a more effective quick release mechanism in order to remove my wheels without deflating the tires.
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Submitted by
dont edit me again!
a racer
from Colorado Date Reviewed: August 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is my second response toScott Mclean's ridiculous response regarding the Arch Supremes. The first one was apparently removed by the esteemed people at MTBR.COM. Allow me to say this - Scott doesn't have a clue. He complains that he can't find rim wrangler pads for his brakes - but does not have an issue with their performance. Because Avid won't (can't) respond to his inability to find replacement pads, they do not offer a great product. This is bs. While Avid would love to sell as many pads as possible it is ultimately the distributor's and his local bike shop's responsibility to stock this product.Therefore, Scott's issue is with the local shop and his review is a misguided attempt to vent. As I said before - I imagine these brakes were not purchased from a local shop, therefore he probably feels guilty about demanding the local shop stock this pad. In a pinch, the Shimano pads will work.AND MTBR.COM - what's your problem. Allow this message to get out!
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Submitted by
Scott McLean
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: August 2, 1998
Bottom Line:
Ok, so maybe I over reacted. Avid may not return 100% of their calls or e-mails, but someone is listening. I know that because yesterday 4 new Rim Wrangler brake pads came in the mail. And since there was no bill attached, I guess they were free. Avid could still (and should) stock these pads at more LBS, so I'll give them a four, for a great product (these brakes rock) and working to please the customer. ps I bought the original brakes one mile from my house. And sure I could go in and DEMAND they stock the pads. In the mean time I have to wait until they come in. I guess if you're a POSER who has no clue and does not want to ride for a week that may work. I get pissed when I don't ride for a week. I also get mad when dweebs who live 1000 miles away think they know me. With all the OEM sales Avid is getting, their pads should be EVERYWHERE. Whether it's Avid's fault or all the LBS makes NO difference to me. So gimme a break.
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Submitted by
Joe
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: July 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
These brakes are nothing short of amazing. I also have Mavic X517 ceramic rims, and together, these brakes must be as powerful as hydraulics, or at least pretty close. They are also fairly light, and come with many ingenious features built in, such as the Speed Dial centering device that aligns the brakes with ease in seconds. Avid has definitely acchieved an unparalelled product.
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Submitted by
Scott McLean
a
from cross-country rider Date Reviewed: July 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
DO NOT BUY THESE BRAKES. Oh sure they work well. Hell, they work great. But just try buying rim wrangler cartridge pad replacements. NO ONE, REPEAT NO ONE carries them. I have called Avid for information, but never get through. I have been leaving messages and sending e-mail. So far I have been ignored (for weeks now). If you can afford to buy a whole new set of brakes when your pads wear down buy Avid. If you think you should be able to buy pads at the local bike shop on the corner, or at the biggest bike shop in Southern California, don’t. THEY DO NOT CARRY THEM. NO ONE CARRIES THEM. DO NOT BUY THEM. They also do not care about customers after the sale. They will ignore your attempts to contact them. Zero chilies (for ignoring their customers after the sale).
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Submitted by
Mac
a cross-country rider
from San Jose, Ca Date Reviewed: July 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
I was completely satisfied with my Avid 2.0s and I switched to the Arch Supremes because I was itchin' to do something else to the bike to make it a better for downhill. I didn't think a bicycle could brake this good! It's not that it brakes any harder now, it's that it feels better and is very smooth. The one bad thing is that they're expensive.
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Submitted by
Sean Pelletier
a racer
from Merrimack, NH Date Reviewed: July 5, 1998
Bottom Line:
This is without a doubt, the best braking system on the market. As a wrench at a local bike shop, one of the largest in New England, I have seen many of the trick braking systems come and go. Why would anyone go for the disk brake hype when they could have the avids and be lighter, better looking, easier to adjust, and still be cheaper? I race cross country and occassionally go to Killington and Loon for downhilling and I can say that these brakes have never disappointed me. They are well worth the money and after close to a year of riding on them, I can only encourage others to buy them.
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Submitted by
Antti
a cross-country rider
from Espoo, Finland Date Reviewed: July 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
GRR--EE--AA--TT Just great, these brakes work better than Magura Discs !!Pull them with one finger and they will throw you over the handlebar !! I use Avid Arch Supreme brakes and the new Avid Ultimate L levers in my Cannondale F3000 and when you pull the brake, even Cannondale ultra-stiff rear triangle seems to flex ?!?!?Very powerful and the best brakes there ever will be !!!
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Submitted by
a weekend warrior
a
from Honolulu, Hawaii Date Reviewed: July 3, 1998
Bottom Line:
I replaced the Shimano XT V-brake on the rear of my bike with the Arch Supreme unit and am extremely satisfied with the performance. This brake is more powerful than the Rockshox disc that I am running up front. Modulation is excellent and the feel is very solid and precise...a nice change from the rather sloppy feel of Shimano's parallel push mechanism. Kudos to Avid for producing such a high quality product. RockShox could learn a few things about QUALITY from Avid. The only downside is the price.
The Speed Dial adjuster and the sealed cartridge bearings they run on. These two outstanding features alone would earn these brakes a 5 in my book. But that's not all. They're easy to adjust and align, and they come with great instructions on how to optimize setup. These are powerful brakes, dangerously powerful brakes. I used to run Scott/Pederson SE cants front and rear, and I thought I had the most incredible force in the universe. The Arch Supremes blow them away. I haven't tried other high-end V-type brakes (like Machine Tech's or Tektro's, etc.), but if cable brakes get much stronger than this, then they ought not sell 'em without a license. I share one reviewer's concern about the long-term durability of the arch and its potential to catch mud in really sloppy conditions. STill, they've stood up to 6 months of heavy riding in moderate conditions and I haven't had any problems yet-or anything even resembling a problem-so I'll reserve final judgement until the end of the year. So far so good. So DAMN good! One final thought: I highly recommend using a roller with these brakes instead of the noodle tube. I use a QBP Travel Agent and it works quite well.
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Submitted by
BRIAN HAWKINS
a weekend warrior
from Denver, Co Date Reviewed: June 24, 1998
Bottom Line:
I just put the Arch and Brand New Ultimate L levers on my FSR. I have never felt such a positive braking system. They are incredibly accurate and responsive...and powerfull – with one finger on the lever you can create enough force to see the rear triangle flexing (of course if you ever did that while you were riding, you wouldn't be on the bike anymore). I love them.
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Submitted by
UllolaQ
a cross-country rider
from Tiburon,CA Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998
Bottom Line:
These brakes are so intricate in design. There are so many pieces, that it justifies it's price- the labor must be killer. Power is good and controllable, but not overpowering. Unfortunately, there are so many pieces that I'm afraid that in the real world, they'll get destroyed by rocks, sand and grit. The through the arm pad is cool. The bearings are not really waterproof and the center spring adjustment are nice, but does something this fragile feeling need to be on a mountain bike? Kudos for the intricacy, but is this too nice for rolling in the dirt?
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Submitted by
Ripley
a cross-country rider
from Nor Cal Date Reviewed: June 4, 1998
Bottom Line:
I was one of the few hold-outs on the V-brake bandwagon. I needed more braking power, but I didn't want to go the disc brake route and I really didn't want to go with any of the Big S offerings, so I waited to see what the inevitable aftermarket barrage would bring. I saw the new Onza HOLA V-brakes and thought,Hmmm...those are pretty cool. But then, as fate would have it, Avid put their engineers and designers on overtime, and they came up with the most awesome v-brakes ever created: The Avid Arch Supreme. So, I took out a loan, and within a week, I had the most serious brake system hanging on my bike. Mated with the Avid Ultimate-L brake levers, the Arch Supremes ruled supreme. It took me a little time to get used to the positive feel and power, but I eventually did. Now I am able to go into turns faster because I can apply my brakes later. And brake fade is non-existent. These brakes are packed with features: cartridge bearings in the brake post mounts and brake pad pivots, no-tool brake pad centering knob, Rim Wrangler pads (good wear), and solid CNC machined aluminum arms. The cost is more than twice that of an XTR unit, but the complete system (with brake levers) is still less expensive, lighter, and easier to install and setup than one set of disc brakes. Do the math. If you have a serious sweet-tooth, these are some serious bike candy! Five chilis plus one!
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Submitted by
Dave
a racer
from Montreal, Qc, Canada Date Reviewed: May 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
These brakes make you stop on a dime! I had some avid 1d and I wanted some xtr but my opinion changed as soon as I saw the arch supreme.Use with care, they will throw you over the handlebar, and will empty your bank account but hey, it's for your bike
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Submitted by
Richard
a cross-country rider
from Illinios Date Reviewed: May 27, 1998
Bottom Line:
THESE BRAKES RULE!! What else can i say. If there is a chance your in the market for some new v-style brakes. Don't go any further! This is the brake for the softer kinda feeling people.These will STOP YOU> no disappointment!! They are one finger brakes, with a softer pull. Your forearms will love you. Keep Riding!!
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Submitted by
Steven
a cross-country rider
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: May 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have these Brakes on my Bontrager, these are definately the sweetist most powerful braking system ever, at first when squeezing them i felt they were too soft since i ride a BMX, i have that itchy finger braking setup, but after taking it for a spin nothing but power braking in the parking lot... Tested in the mountains a day after, riding through water, No Problem on Braking, stops just as great when dry, Riding through mud, No Problem, stops as great when dry, and the brake pads, it last!, not like the XTR brakes when you hear a mouse screaming the brake pads melt instantly though rough conditions... the Arch Supremes Rule period!
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Submitted by
Sean Pryce
a downhiller
from Orange, New Jersey Date Reviewed: May 20, 1998
Bottom Line:
After almost killing myself on a downhill in the mud I brought the Avid Arch Supremes. One word....AWESOME! These brakes rule! The easiest brake to set up that I've ever incountered. These brakes are very powerful and have nice features like the sealed bearings on the brake bosses, and the 1-step centering adjustment on the arch. So you want an improvement, Avid has the Extreme Arch that gives better mud clearance, and their new Booster to stop any frame flex that you're sure to get with brakes this powerful. Who needs disc brakes when you can get Extreme!
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Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998
Bottom Line:
These brakes kick ass. There is nothing else to say. They are not only the best looking linear pull brakes on the market they are the best brake as well. In the words of the bike shop mechanic, These things are alien technology, they're that well made. I have never seen a product that is as well made with such high tolerances ever!!! An example of why these beauties will cost you both arms and leg (but worth it) was when I bent my rim on a fierce trail. Instead of grinding it home with the rim riding the pads I simply unscrewed the speed dial and set it so I could at least get home. No tools, easy as pie set up and have I mentioned that they look cool too?!?! Set them up with the Avid Ultimate L Speed Dial brake levers and you will have the most controllable kick-ass brake system, period.
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Submitted by
Edward Bodtker
a cross-country rider
from Norway/Colorado Date Reviewed: May 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
By far the most powerful and easiest-set-up Vee I ever tried. Set up with Avid Speed-Dial Ultimate Ls they are super-adjustable too. I ride mostly on hardpack, but on the occasional mudride they do tend to clog up. This may be remedied by changing to the Extreme arch, but will make it a tad heavier. Did I mention they are the best-looking brakes on the market?
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Submitted by
Stick
a cross-country rider
from Frisco, CA Date Reviewed: April 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
Holy shit, are these brakes powerful. At first, I thought I was going to flip over the bars when I first used them. They work great with the Avid Ultimate Levers. Also, no tools are required to adjust the brakes. They are even lighter than my old XT V brakes. Only problem I have is that the arch tends to cake up with a lot. Also, instructions are great and well written which made installation a breeze. Awesome!!!!!
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Submitted by
Alex
a racer
from US of A Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
I just got some Arch supremes and they are the bomb. The have such a great feel to them. You always know exacly how much power you are putting into the brake. They are awesome looking and they work flawlassle. They are expensive but it is definitely worth the high price you pay. You can't get anything better on the market.
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Submitted by
eric stephani
a cross-country rider
from mamaroneck, ny Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
These are the s***. Parallel pad movement with no slop, ever. Super powerful, super controllable. They're not that heavy for the amount of power you get, and they look good too. Did i mention smoooooth!!! Sure $120 per wheel is a lot but these are well worth it. Do follow avid's advice and run adjustable levers, you'll appreciate it.
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Submitted by
Martin Scheffer
a racer
from Belgium Date Reviewed: April 11, 1998
Bottom Line:
These brakes are very very easy to adjust,very well built. They use sealed bearings on the brake bosses. More progressive action than XT's,i use real X Levers but avid levers are ajustable and are probably the way to go. High price. Bu five stars anyway because i consider these ratings to be about quality and not price/quality.
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Submitted by
Kevin Punter
a weekend warrior
from Sydney Australia Date Reviewed: April 8, 1998
Bottom Line:
I'd like to see an improvement on this brake, because I cannot imagine, in my wildest dreams, what that would be!!! These brakes are the bee's knees, the cat's pyjamas, the ...... Installation is simple, adjustment is simple, operation is precise and power is awesome. Did I say anything about engineering and appearance, well they're crash hot as well!!!The only thing I could complain about would be the price. It's spectacular also.
$ 120.00
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