Submitted by
baboonrash
a Cross Country Rider
from huntington, ny, usa Date Reviewed: November 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
stillwell
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
bike junkie bethpage
Strengths:
powerful, reliable, simple
Weaknesses:
none... a little squeeky sometimes
Bike Setup:
Titus racer x , xt group, thompson, stans, flat bar and these awesome brakes
Bottom Line:
i've had these brakes for so long and they've served me so well i have to put my props into writing. these avid brakes are the best deal in the world of mtbing... i know of no other product that delivers so much performance for the price. (except maybe the stan's system)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cafam1
a Weekend Warrior
from Staen Island, NY Date Reviewed: November 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Easy to Adjust.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
Turner SixPack
Bottom Line:
These are the best investment I have made(BB7-185mm). These brakes when paired with the Ultimate lever are flawless. I have been beating the daylights out of these brakes for the past 6 years and they have never let me down. I have the 185mm on my Turner SixPack and they work better than my friends hydros. No hydraulic fluid and one can use any direct pull lever. These brakes are still working like the day I got them. I recommend using full housing either Avid or Shimano. You will not be disappointed with this purchase.
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Submitted by
suhail
a Cross Country Rider
from Bangalore INDIA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
avid ball bearing dissc
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
United Arab Emirates
Strengths:
love to have a broucher or akind of a briefing details of this product like Hydrulcs disc brak Interested how do u people deliver let me know
regds
suhail
Similar Products Used:
Nil
Bike Setup:
Haro Swiftline
Bottom Line:
Outstanding looks od the dics wann brief or cataglouge of ths
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Submitted by
eight
a Cross Country Rider
from Date Reviewed: June 17, 2009
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Jenson Usa
Strengths:
Consistency - works great in all conditions
Durability - no problems in over 4 years
Easy to set up - takes about as long to set up as V-brakes
Stopping power - way more than I need
Modulates well - "smooth" More on this later
Weaknesses:
Not as smooth as hydraulics but also aren't as much of a hassle. May possibly be at their worst less smooth than V-brakes are at their best.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT and offbrand V-brakes. Juicys.
Bike Setup:
I use these with older style shimano LX levers. Manitou Black Elite (underrated and discontinued fork). Jamis Dakota XC frame.
This is a review of the 2004 version of the Avid brake. It's the model pictured at the top of this review which seems to be closer to today's BB7. 160 mm rotors mounted to XT hubs.
Bottom Line:
I use these for XC and All-mountain riding and find them more than adequate. I weigh about 165 lbs and the bike is probably pushing 28.
These brakes are made incredibly well. I'm sure I've laid the bike down on the brake side many times. All still works well. The rotors can take a beating. I've only had to true the front one once (which is kind of scary to do). If you do not actually break a rotor or brake module, these will probably outlast your fork, wheels, and frame.
The pads will last several seasons for XC and all-mountain duty. I've only changed mine once and those probably had 25% of their life left. You can replace the pads without tools which is cool.
Pulling the lever only moves one pad which means the rotor has to bend in order to contact the second pad. I thought this was kind of a cheesy design but it works great in practice. *shrug*
"smooth". It's very easy to get just the right amount of braking. This allows very fine control over hairy descents, slippery surfaces, quick stops... really whenever you need to slow down the bike. The amount of lever you have to pull to get a certain amount of response is basically unaffected by how wet/sandy/muddy the brake is. Under heavy, continuous braking the rotors can get hot enough to burn your skin or even boil the water as you splash through a puddle (no kidding. I've had it happen more than once). Still, the braking performance is not noticeably affected even above 100 degrees C. Cool.
With my fork setup, I have to arrange my front pads kind of far from the rotor or else I'll get a little rub when I lean the bike. This may or may not be exclusive to my fork. Anyway, as a result I need sort-of a lot of lever pull to engage the brake. I don't like having that dead zone where pulling the lever doesn't do anything. I've been trying to work it out for a few seasons with no success. However, I don't see how this is a fault of the front brake. I imagine I would have the same problem with any disc system and, regardless, I still perfer these brakes over V-brakes.
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Submitted by
turf
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta, GA Date Reviewed: July 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Whatever I'm on
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Stops fast, no stinkin' hydraulics
Weaknesses:
A bit hard to adjust perfectly depending on the frame, but that's just me.
Similar Products Used:
Other mechs, Vs, and hydraulics
Bike Setup:
Bike 1: Fisher Tass with lots of upgrades including these brakes
Bike 2: Kona Dawg built up from frame just so I could use these brakes
Bike 3: DBR suburban assault vehicle / errand bike with large front basket.
Bottom Line:
I am probably the only person who has a hard time adjusting these brakes to the proper 1/3 2/3 ratio but this is probably more from my frame mounts being a mm or so off. If they would only allow a bit more adjustability I would be happier.
But still, I love these brakes after removing hydraulics from my and my son's bikes and replacing them with BB7s. What a pain in the butt those were since I could not easily adjust them myself and were both spongy after a month. I didn't see the point of hydraulics at all once I had the BB7s on.
I like BB7s so much that when I was recently looking for a full suss for my son (and me when he's not with me), I would not consider a prebuilt bike since none in the quality range I wanted came with BB7s, only hydraulics. Yeah, I know I could pull off the Juicys or Stokers that come on the prebuilts and sell them on ebay and buy a new set of BB7s, but it just peeves me I cannot buy a stock $1.5 to 2K range bike with BB7s when they are the most reliable, most easily adjusted, and reasonably priced.
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Submitted by
leafsfan16
a Weekend Warrior
from sincity, nevada, us Date Reviewed: June 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
beaverdamn
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
boards n bikes
Strengths:
everything! stopping power, ease of adjustment, looks, reliability, function, price,
Weaknesses:
none that i can name!
Similar Products Used:
hayes hydralics
Bike Setup:
norco tactik
Bottom Line:
these are the best breaks i have owned, ive had hydro's too and these work a lot better without having to bleed, there fantastic and strongly recommend them.
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Submitted by
IrOn_MaN
a Weekend Warrior
from Date Reviewed: June 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
BIkes-N-Boards
Strengths:
great stopping power, and easily installed/adjusted
Weaknesses:
color
Similar Products Used:
hayes mx4s, jucy 5s
Bike Setup:
giant stp ss/bb7/odi lock ons
Bottom Line:
simple, cost effective, and stops on a dime, what more could u ask for from a brake?
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Submitted by
Rak Sasa
a Cross Country Rider
from Camas, WA, USA Date Reviewed: March 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Round Lake
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Ease of installation and maintenance. No more fluids to stock in my garage. Smooth modulation and braking performance.
Weaknesses:
The paper instructions that came with the brakes were difficult to follow. The online (printable) version was different and much easier to use.
Similar Products Used:
Demo'd Avid Juicy.
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar Expert with Rock Shox Recon and Mavic disk wheels.
Bottom Line:
I purchased a pair of the BB7's from Pricepoint a few months ago. I read the instructions a few times and then went to the SRAM website and found some I could download to my computer. They seemed to be clearer than the included set. Since this was a conversion from V brakes to disk I also installed a set of Full Metal Jacket cables and liners and new levers at the same time.
I followed the instructions carefully and did everything "by the book" including torquing all the bolts to the required values. The only modification I made to the whole setup was painting the stainless steel FMJ cable housings black to match the bike frame.
I've run the brakes through their paces quite a bit. They perform great whether wet, dry or covered in mud. I read where some have had modulation problems, but that might be a cabling issue. I've been able to apply very light pressure to modulate speed or gradually increase pressure without the on/off feeling. The brake levers return to rest without any delay. I'm very happy that I made the switch and so far haven't had to make any adjustments to the brakes after the initial setup. Occasionally the brakes "squeal" but there seems to be no rhyme or reason to when it occurs. It only happens every once in a while and can appear when the brakes are cold, hot, wet or dry. It's not a real issue and it never lasts for long.
I think if you have a complicated cable routing scheme on your bike, the BB7's will not work well and hydraulic brakes may perform better for you. Depending on where you buy, the price difference is practically negligible so it just comes down to personal preference.
Now I just need to find something to plug the V brake stud "holes" to keep them from becoming mud and moisture traps.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ali Jamaul
a Weekend Warrior
from TO, Canada Date Reviewed: December 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
the don
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Insanely Powerful Extremely Reliable Amazing Adjustibiliy No worries of leaks Easy to install
Weaknesses:
None!
Similar Products Used:
No other mechanical this strong.
Bike Setup:
Shore Hardtail Freeride
Bottom Line:
Possibly one of the best brakes ever made. Even better than some hydros. Offers a ton of stopping power, really easy to adjust without tools, a classic design!
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Submitted by
Peter Tvermoes
a Cross Country Rider
from Copenhagen, Denmark Date Reviewed: November 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
www.bike-components.de
Strengths:
Easy set-up, reasonably lightweight, reliable, braking power
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bike Setup:
Marin Pine Mountain, Shimano LX, AVID SD Ti, Avid BB7 F185/R160 mm.
Bottom Line:
I changed from rim brakes to the BB7's. I must say, that I have not really experienced problems with rim brakes. They are fairly reliable although braking power is reduced in wet conditions. However, it is one of the things you learn to live with and I didn't find that to dificult. However, disc brakes have advantages. After installing the brakes - which was very very easy with the AVID mounting system - I took the bike for a couple of rides and it was immidiately clear that they are a big improvement to the rim brakes.
Their braking power is great - I'm a big rider 87 kg - and the BB7's make stop when I want to no matter the weather conditions. Also, it is very easy to dose the braking and you feel in control when coming fast into a corner needing to slow without blockiing the wheels.
The Ti levers are high quality and work flawlessly with the BB7. In order to avoid slack I have used quality teflon coated cables from Jagwire with teflen coated housing - very smooth indeed.
Highly recommended
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Submitted by
Glynn
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: November 1, 2007
I run these brakes on both my bikes for good reason - they work great. Simple to install and adjust and lots of power once they're broken-in. The only thing you might miss from hydraulic systems is that super buttery-smooth lever action (these are pulling on a cable and you can feel it - a little). To me, it's a non-issue. They're plenty smooth and plain ol' work. I had a Hayes hydraulic system on a Trek Liquid and I always missed the Avid Mechs whenever I rode it. Off Avid's (Sram's) website, these are actually three grams lighter than Juicy Ultimates, so I don't see how weight could be a factor unless you're a cross-country racer where you'll be running Vs anyway). Five Flamin' Turds all the way!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gus
a Weekend Warrior
from Muntinlupa, Philippines Date Reviewed: October 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Sta. Rosa
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Sabak Mkti
Strengths:
Very Good stopping power. Adjustments are a breeze! Modulation is very similar as Hydros.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Avid bb5
Bike Setup:
KHS XC204, XT Drivetrain with Hone Crank. Truvativ cockpit, Manitou fork with Mavic wheelset, Nevegals. XC Trail bike setup.
Bottom Line:
Very happy with the stopping power and ease of adjustment of these brakes. I use it with YPK teflon coated kevlar brake cables with Avid FR5 levers. Very smooth 1 finger operation. Feels and modulates like a Hydro. Pads provide sufficient braking power like the juicys. I would recommend this to anyone who likes to use 'em and leave 'em type of riding and for those who wouldn't like to worry about leaks and bleeding. I've got an 08 version.
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Submitted by
sam
a Cross Country Rider
from birmingham Date Reviewed: October 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
good stoppin power, good for light/moderate downhill ridin, easily adjustable
Weaknesses:
squeaks ocasionaly. just make sure the pad isnt rubin on the rotor
Similar Products Used:
tektro io, tektro auriga
Bike Setup:
saracen instinct 2, dirt jam pros
Bottom Line:
great breaks, masiv improvment on the tektros i had, and much better than the aurigas on my mates raw 3. i hav the 203mm front and 185mm back setup and its works brill, tuk it dont sum trails and they cope rely gd, evryfin gd bout em
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sam
a Cross Country Rider
from birmingham Date Reviewed: October 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
good stoppin power, good for light/moderate downhill ridin, easily adjustable
Weaknesses:
squeaks ocasionaly. just make sure the pad isnt rubin on the rotor
Similar Products Used:
tektro io, tektro auriga
Bike Setup:
saracen instinct 2, dirt jam pros
Bottom Line:
great breaks, masiv improvment on the tektros i had, and much better than the aurigas on my mates raw 3. i hav the 203mm front and 185mm back setup and its works brill, tuk it dont sum trails and they cope rely gd, evryfin gd bout em
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Soo, MI Date Reviewed: October 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Jenson
Strengths:
Ease of setup, simplicity, cost, low maintenance, stopping power, and they look pretty sweet
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Hayes Sole (hydro disc), Avid v-brakes
Bike Setup:
Kona Kikapu Deluxe, stock except Speed Dial levers and BB7 da Vinci Symbiosis full suspension tandem
Bottom Line:
I borrowed a friend's full suspension tandem that had Avid BB7s, and after 2 days of riding hilly singletrack, I never doubted the Avid's stopping power once. When the stock Hayes Sole hydro brakes on my Kona failed and leaked oil all over me, I didn't even think twice and ordered a set of these for $120 (included front and rear) from Jenson. I figured if they're good enough for a mountain bike tandem, they're certainly good enough for my single bike. Setup was a breeze, even easier than v-brakes, and they work like a charm.
A great product if you don't want to deal with the maintenance of hydro brakes. I ride cross country/all mountain style and haven't noticed a difference between these and my old hydro brakes. Thumbs up to Avid continually providing great products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ifestion Papadam
a Downhiller
from Thessaloniki Date Reviewed: July 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Simplicity, quick adjust, low maintenance, great stopping power
Weaknesses:
Needs better pads than avids, like koolstop or ebc.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XTR, Magura
Bike Setup:
Canyon Big Mountain 1 frame, Marzocchi All Mountain 1 fork, Marzocchi Roco shock, Mavic wheels, Chris King headset, Shimano XT complete set, Hopey steering damper,Scwalbe Big Betty tires.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up from my previous 1 year impressions of the 8" rotors, i'm still very happy for my choice, they still working great combined now with full metal jackets, with no problems at all. Thank you Avid.!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dave
a Cross Country Rider
from boise Date Reviewed: July 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
affordable, reliable
Weaknesses:
modulation
Bike Setup:
ibex hard tail, santa cruz heckler
Bottom Line:
the guys ate mountainbike action kill me! their august issue shoots down cable actuated brakes, as you can see on this site BB7s are a favorite among REAL mountainbike riders, thoise guys are bought and paid for by the manufacturers of overpriced hydro brakes, fact is hydros are nothing but a pain to maintain and unless you have a downhill bike forget hydros, my BB7s are bullet proof and properly maintained provide more than enough stopping power. They claim weight is an issue? yeah right....bb7s=367 gms, juicy 7s=420 grams, even the most expensive hydros are just slightly less in weight if you have an extra $500.00 bucks to blow sure buy the magura martas, hell those guys get em for free..sure they dont complain.mbt action has totally discredited themselves again.
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Submitted by
RZ
a Weekend Warrior
from Jakarta, Indonesia Date Reviewed: May 20, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Oky Bike
Strengths:
Good stopping power, easy to adjust, minimum maintenance
I don’t like something that complicated, that’s why bb7 fulfill my need. Its really simple and easy to adjust with great braking power (160 mm rotor with sd5 lever) for xc. I don’t know why its so expensive here in Indonesia
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Mason
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Bragg, CA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, NC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Affordable, easy set up, simple to adjust, good modulation and stopping power.
I have the 203mm rotor up front and an XTR V in the rear. The BB7 is awesome. Worked for a 1400 mile tour of New Zealand with a LOADED Bob trailer, lots of wet weather and steep hills. I would have been screwed without it as the XTR V faded and became almost useless in the wet on steep downhills. 24 Hours of Moab Race, training and tons of other riding the same year. I think I've only used one or maybe two sets of pads the whole time (I can't say for sure but I don't remember changing them). Just got a set for my Wifes rig to replace her horrible Deore Mechs. These are the shizzy for all kinds of riding. No hassle, just great reliable brakes and cheap. I hope they make 'em forever. Buy them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alan Mason
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Bragg, CA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, NC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Affordable, easy set up, simple to adjust, good modulation and stopping power.
I have the 203mm rotor up front and an XTR V in the rear. The BB7 is awesome. Worked for a 1400 mile tour of New Zealand with a LOADED Bob trailer, lots of wet weather and steep hills. I would have been screwed without it as the XTR V faded and became almost useless in the wet on steep downhills. 24 Hours of Moab Race, training and tons of other riding the same year. I think I've only used one or maybe two sets of pads the whole time (I can't say for sure but I don't remember changing them). Just got a set for my Wifes rig to replace her horrible Deore Mechs. These are the shizzy for all kinds of riding. No hassle, just great reliable brakes and cheap. I hope they make 'em forever. Buy them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Suva Crew
a Cross Country Rider
from Lafayette,CA USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Ease of set-up!!, works at expectation and a major improvement over the best v-brake set-up. No worries about kinky a hydraulic line while running through the bushes or dumping it over a slope.
Weaknesses:
No competent competition, Hydro users want to know how good they are.
Similar Products Used:
Avid Arch Rival 40s...sustained me for years. Tried the Shimano XTRs disc and they weren't worth it
Bike Setup:
GF Sugar 1, Sid race rear, Duke XC, X717 w/Velociraptors, and XT all around with dual controls...26.5 LBS of dirty love
Bottom Line:
Simple stupid to use, easy to adjust, parts are simple to replace.....I do carry and extra Disc for the long outback trips in the sierras with miles of downhill just in case it warps....hasn't yet. You can barrel adjust on the fly if it's needed. Don't worry if you biff it, there is no lines to kink or juice to lose. Certainly heavier than my trusty Arch Rivals...but lighter than Hydra. Exceeded my expectations. Save your $$ use the BB7s and spend the rest on the van rides up the hill from Downeyville.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Suva Crew
a Cross Country Rider
from Lafayette,CA USA Date Reviewed: March 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Ease of set-up!!, works at expectation and a major improvement over the best v-brake set-up. No worries about kinky a hydraulic line while running through the bushes or dumping it over a slope.
Weaknesses:
No competent competition, Hydro users want to knwo how good they are.
Similar Products Used:
Avid Arch Rival 40s...sustained me for years. Tried the Shimano XTRs and they weren't worth it
Bike Setup:
GF Sugar 1, Sid race rear, Duke XC, X717 w/Velociraptors, and XT all around with dual controls...26.5 LBS of dirty love
Bottom Line:
Simple stupid to use, easy to adjust, parts are simple to replace.....I do carry and extra Disc for the long outback trips in the sierras with miles of downhill just in case it warps....hasn't yet. You can barrel adjust on the fly if it's needed. Don't worry if you biff it, there is no lines to kink or juice to lose. Certainly heavier than my trusty Arch Rivals...but lighter than Hydra. Exceeded my expectations. Save your $$ use the BB7s and spend the rest on the van rides up the hill from Downeyville.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Orlando Rodriguez
a Weekend Warrior
from Belgium Date Reviewed: March 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
Great power, simple, RELIABLE, simple, waht else can I say, these are great!
Weaknesses:
None! (I mean it, these don't clean themselves when they get dirty but that would be a lot to ask, these are just brakes, right?)
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT 06 hidros (good), Hayes 9 and lots of v's
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC, shimano XT everywhere
Bottom Line:
These brakes are the top! smart, simple design, brake power is more than enough (as powerful as good hydros without the hassle), there is no brake fading, no sudden locks, installing and adjusting them is a breeze, I love them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Galenkamp
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Catharines, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: February 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
12-mile creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
pinkbike.com/buysell
Strengths:
easy to install and calibrate.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
n/a
Bike Setup:
05 Giant XTC
Bottom Line:
Theese were stupid easy to install on my bike. The bike used to have v-brakes, so a great improvement. I read so many reviews, and couldn't find too much wrong with them. So far so good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Saber Haghvirdy
a Downhiller
from Iran / Tehran Date Reviewed: January 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Shafaq 3
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
friend
Strengths:
Very durable . Great stopping power - adjustable in all kinds and ways - very light - maintance free - what else do you need
Weaknesses:
nothing really nothing
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX 9 - Promax X3
Bike Setup:
Kona Stinky 06
Bottom Line:
I had a pair of these on my Giant XTC and i was pleased with them . So when i got problems with the Hayes hydro i didnt think about it i got a pair with 203 front rotor. It has more stopping power than many hydros belive me . Although its a single piston caliper but the ability to adjust both pads against the rotor has fixed all issues you might have for one in a million . If you need some thing to stop you dont mess up with hydros and dont think buy Avid BB7's you will never be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julian
a
from San Diego, Ca Date Reviewed: January 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Progressive braking and really easy set up. I haven't used any other mechanical disks but these have braking properties similar to my hydros on my DH just watered down.
Weaknesses:
Ive been playing around with the for monthes already but im still not satisfied with the braking power of these things under hard breaking. I wish the power ramped up a little faster, but i guess that could just be a quality mechs dont have.
Similar Products Used:
hayes hopes
Bottom Line:
Awesome for trails and DJ, want a little more power for urban
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Plymouth Meeting Date Reviewed: November 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$84.00
Purchased At:
rei
Strengths:
Great stopping power, great brake for the price
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
Best brake i've ever used. Works great wet and dry. I had some squealing on the first ride, but after that I haven't herd a thing. If you're looking for a great mechanical disc brake, this is the one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eric corona
a Weekend Warrior
from henderson, nv Date Reviewed: November 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
bootleg canyon, cottonwood
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
modulation, no brake fade, stopping power, cost, piece of mind knowing im not going to kill myself do to a stupid hose leak. easy set up, NO SHIMS, confidence in your awesome braking powers and the ability to make your self look foolishly dumb by doing stoppies and flipping over the bars
Weaknesses:
suck until they break in.after a good ride or two they'll be working for you like the illegals you hire to do your landscaping.
Similar Products Used:
magura hydros, old school v's and tried out some hayes hydros
Bike Setup:
khs dh 50, manitou stance kingpin, fox dhx, wtb dual duty wheels, xt drive line, race face cranks, good ole shin tattooers and odi lock ons yadda yadda yadda. you get te logistics
Bottom Line:
dude. screw hydros, they fade, leak, pain in the ass to maintain...these you set em and go. once broken in, there awesome. avid knows what there doing with these. there well priced, easy to work with and unbalievable. you can upgrade rotor size easy. buy a 20. dollar adapter and the rotor and thats it. parts for these are so easy to get ahold of at any bike shop. its almost ridiculous how great these brakes are.
there great for all mountain riding. work wonders in muddy conditions, squeel like a stuck pig when wet and breaking in, but id rather be squeeling instead of lying on ground. buy em, you cant go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Rivera
a Cross Country Rider
from Menlo Park Date Reviewed: November 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Alpine Lake Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
stops pretty fast, lightweight, but...
Weaknesses:
if you press half-way down on the brake levers it makes a horrendous noise. I've had to replace my brake pads alot and need to get alot of service on them
Similar Products Used:
Hayes El Camino
Bike Setup:
2002 marin rift zone
Bottom Line:
These brakes stop pretty well but need alot of service on them
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adrian
a Cross Country Rider
from Sundance, Wy Date Reviewed: November 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
Fine Edge---Laramie
Strengths:
Easy to maintain, Easy to use, and very easy setup..
Weaknesses:
Pads...replacement at least every year...Granted We have lots of climbing with sweet descents..
Similar Products Used:
I have tried Hayes mechs, and Shimano Mechs...On buddies bikes...
Bike Setup:
Superlight, mavic wheelset x-9, thompson, LX H2, Raceface Carbon Bar, and Titec stem...
Bottom Line:
For the money the best mech brake on the market bar none...Easiest setup, and you'll know they work, no bleeding no lines, just simple turn a dial and go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
helexia23
a Weekend Warrior
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: October 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Easy to set up, can use existing v-brake levers, look cool, stop much better than my old XTR's, don't eat rims, still stop in wet conditions, very easy to set brake lever throw and feel.
Weaknesses:
So far none, they squeaked pretty bad in the beginning, especially when wet, but once they broke in it's getting better.
Similar Products Used:
XT V-Brakes, XTR V-Brakes. I still love my XTR V-Brakes but they chew up rims like mad.
Bike Setup:
98 Heckler, Race Face Cranks, XTR drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
So far I'm very happy with them and for $60 each (for the 2006 models) you can't go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
helexia23
a Weekend Warrior
from Connecticut Date Reviewed: October 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Easy to set up, can use existing v-brake levers, look cool, stop much better than my old XTR's, don't eat rims, still stop in wet conditions, very easy to set brake lever throw and feel.
Weaknesses:
So far none, they squeaked pretty bad in the beginning, especially when wet, but once they broke in it's getting better.
Similar Products Used:
XT V-Brakes, XTR V-Brakes. I still love my XTR V-Brakes but they chew up rims like mad.
Bike Setup:
98 Heckler, Race Face Cranks, XTR drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
So far I'm very happy with them and for $60 each (for the 2006 models) you can't go wrong.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph
a Cross Country Rider
from Napa, Ca Date Reviewed: October 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Rim trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$144.00
Purchased At:
ebikesworld
Strengths:
Great modulation and stopping power Very low maintenance Value/quality ratio
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Turner Flux, Thompson Stem and SP, Wheels by Dave, CK Hubs and HS
Bottom Line:
I have the BB-7's w/160mm rotors and they are super brakes for a super price. Caution: These are condidence inspiring brakes, so if you don't want to ride as fast as you possibly can, knowing you an stop on a dime when you need to, don't by these brakes! Otherwise; shop for a bargain and buy them!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph
a Cross Country Rider
from Napa, Ca Date Reviewed: October 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Rim trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$144.00
Purchased At:
ebikesworld
Strengths:
Great modulation and stopping power Very low maintenance Value/quality ratio
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Turner Flux, Thompson Stem and SP, Wheels by Dave, CK Hubs and HS
Bottom Line:
I have the BB-7's w/160mm rotors and they are super brakes for a super price. Caution: These are condidence inspiring brakes, so if you don't want to ride as fast as you possibly can, knowing you an stop on a dime when you need to, don't by these brakes! Otherwise; shop for a bargain and buy them!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Maine Date Reviewed: October 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Aggie trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
blueskycycle.com
Strengths:
Durable, easily adjusted, good grab, mechanical = easy to work on
Weaknesses:
Weight
Bike Setup:
Leader 516 HT, XT cranks w/ SRAM x9 drivetrain, heavy rock/mud wheelset, Marzocchi MX Pro 120mm
Bottom Line:
This is the standard bearer for mechanical disks (just look at the number of reviews and the high average rating). All the kinks are worked out. They just work.
Mine are the BB7s. I use the 160mm standard disks. They provide plenty of grab and my Avid levers are plenty sensitive. If you are a downhiller, you'll want to go with the big disks, but 160 is fine for aggressive XC.
You can definitely go lighter and you can spend a TON more $$. Heck, I got my front and back for less than half what the boutique brakes cost for just doing one end! Hydro is over rated, over priced, over complicated. If the extra grams aren't going to kill you OR if you are like most of us and can't throw piles of money at your ride, GET THESE BRAKES.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie
a Weekend Warrior
from Bloomsburg, PA, USA Date Reviewed: October 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The New Guy
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very smooth, very powerful, very reliable, very easy to adjust, came with the bike
Weaknesses:
I've heard the BB5s are not as good as the BB7s-that is the only weakness
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes, test rode other bikes with other disc systems
Bike Setup:
2006 Hardrock Pro Disc, BB5s, 6 inch rotors
Bottom Line:
I love these brakes. Never thought I'd be riding with one finger on each lever, but I am! I'd like to upgrade the front to BB7 with larger rotor, but it is really not necessary, just something on my wish list.
Go ahead and adjust them with a little drag-you will hear the rub-don't worry, the wheel will still spin freely (yes, I am very suprised by this) and you will get amazing response from the levers.
I have one tip about getting used to riding with one finger-move the levers in about an inch on the handlebar-your index finger will grab nicely without pulling the lever down on your other knuckles-don't overdo it and you will still be able to get two fingers on if you want. My friend did this to his levers (for hydros) and he likes it much better, also.
If you are very concerned about weight, you should probably stick with V-brakes. If you want great mechanical discs, go with the Avids.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Manu Singh
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: October 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mel's
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
AKA, The Bike Shop
Strengths:
Mounting simplicity, excellent performance and adjustability. Good instruction manual.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Sugar 4+, Avid BB7 disk brake system w/203mm (8") rotor upgrade, DMR Moto 26x2.2 tires, Mavic F219 Disc based front wheel w/XT hub.
Bottom Line:
This brake system is not only cheaper than hydraulic systems, but seriously rivals hydraulic system performance. The mechanism delivers more clamping force than you'd ever need going down a mountain and the large 8" rotor ensures that brake fade from heat doesn't get too excessive. The pad adjustments are excellent for setup and tuning.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roma
a Weekend Warrior
from Kiev, Ukraine Date Reviewed: October 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Similar Products Used:
Tektro, BB5
Bike Setup:
Speshialized HR
Bottom Line:
these brakes are the best variant among disk mechanics. At first blush seems that it is the hydraulic system. Works from an easy onslaught and fluently stops up to the end
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roma
a Weekend Warrior
from Kiev, Ukraine Date Reviewed: October 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Similar Products Used:
Tektro, BB5
Bike Setup:
Speshialized HR
Bottom Line:
these brakes are the best variant among disk mechanics. At first blush seems that it is the hydraulic system. Works from an easy onslaught and fluently stops up to the end
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roma
a Weekend Warrior
from Kiev, Ukraine Date Reviewed: October 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Similar Products Used:
Tektro, BB5
Bike Setup:
Speshialized HR
Bottom Line:
these brakes are the best variant among disk mechanics. At first blush seems that it is the hydraulic system. Works from an easy onslaught and fluently stops up to the end
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Weekend Warrior
from Anaheim Date Reviewed: September 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Lowe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Great stopping power, nice modulation and ease of adjustability.
Weaknesses:
Nada
Similar Products Used:
Tektro Disc
Bike Setup:
Motobecane 700 DS with Marzocchi 130mm Dropoff, Romic rear, avid BB7's with SD7 ti levers.
Bottom Line:
Going from Tektro Disc brakes to Avid BB7's was like night and day. Avid BB7's rock! They have all the stopping power you need. My riding has gotten better because of these brakes. I have a lot more confidence because I can stop when I want. Now I look for steeper lines. Plus being able to adjust the pads on the trail (without tools) is sweet. Get the 185 mm front disc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Weekend Warrior
from Anaheim Date Reviewed: September 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Lowe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Great stopping power, nice modulation and ease of adjustability.
Weaknesses:
Nada
Similar Products Used:
Tektro Disc
Bike Setup:
Motobecane 700 DS with Marzocchi 130mm Dropoff, Romic rear, avid BB7's with SD7 ti levers.
Bottom Line:
Going from Tektro Disc brakes to Avid BB7's was like night and day. Avid BB7's rock! They have all the stopping power you need. My riding has gotten better because of these brakes. I have a lot more confidence because I can stop when I want. Now I look for steeper lines. Plus being able to adjust the pads on the trail (without tools) is sweet. Get the 185 mm front disc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a
from North Carolina Date Reviewed: September 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
firetower
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes.com
Strengths:
Amazing stopping power, easy of adjustment, feel, stiff rotors.
Weaknesses:
They squeal when wet...what discs don't!
Similar Products Used:
formula activa
Bike Setup:
2001 kona blast modified downhill rig
Bottom Line:
So far these have been amazing brakes. I love how easy they are to adjust and get dialed in. Installation is a jiff. After the initial brake in period the stopping power increased dramatically. I have found that even in wet or muddy conditions that they still have amazing stopping power. These are better than most hydraulic disc brakes. I highly recomend them. It is a huge upgrade to not go bottom of the line and get 185mm rotors (if they will fit your bike)!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MiGuEl
a Cross Country Rider
from Macomb, MI USA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pontiac Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$85.00
Strengths:
Lightweight, ease of adjustment, no messy seals and fluid to deal with, stainless cable is stronger than hydraulic fluid hose, and affordable
Weaknesses:
Braking power not as strong as hydraulics,...about the same power of linear pull but better in muddy conditions and downhill do to absence of heated rim walls.
Bike Setup:
Tomac Special full suspension w/Marzocchi fork, FSA cranks and WTB disc wheels.
Bottom Line:
Nice brakes for the money with better braking power than linear pull brakes in wet muddy conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MiGuEl
a Cross Country Rider
from Macomb, MI USA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pontiac Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$85.00
Strengths:
Lightweight, ease of adjustment, no messy seals and fluid to deal with, stainless cable is stronger than hydraulic fluid hose, and affordable
Weaknesses:
Braking power not as strong as hydraulics,...about the same power of linear pull but better in muddy conditions and downhill do to absence of heated rim walls.
Bike Setup:
Tomac Special full suspension w/Marzocchi fork, FSA cranks and WTB disc wheels.
Bottom Line:
Nice brakes for the money with better braking power than linear pull brakes in wet muddy conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MiGuEl
a Cross Country Rider
from Macomb, MI USA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pontiac Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$85.00
Strengths:
Lightweight, ease of adjustment, no messy seals and fluid to deal with, stainless cable is stronger than hydraulic fluid hose, and affordable
Weaknesses:
Braking power not as strong as hydraulics,...about the same power of linear pull but better in muddy conditions and downhill do to absence of heated rim walls.
Bike Setup:
Tomac Special full suspension w/Marzocchi fork, FSA cranks and WTB disc wheels.
Bottom Line:
Nice brakes for the money with better braking power than linear pull brakes in wet muddy conditions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cold
a
from romania Date Reviewed: September 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
street
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
stopping power, no fluids
Weaknesses:
sqeaks, bends rotor, one adjuster is stuck ... kinda sucks now
Bottom Line:
they are good for an amount of time...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rico Pinoy
a Weekend Warrior
from California Date Reviewed: September 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$105.00
Purchased At:
Ebay (betterbikes)
Strengths:
I got the 2006 BB5 set which are great quality and performance for the price. I was looking to upgrade to disc and this was a great purchase. These brakes were easy to setup right out of the box.
Weaknesses:
Only weakness in my opinion is poor adjustibility for the piston side pad so this tends to slightly bend the rotor which is no big deal unless it breaks. You can adjust the brakes to take some on the bend out of the rotor but the bending is still present (though not so much).
Bike Setup:
Leader LD-516H (2006)
Bottom Line:
Great upgrade from V-brakes, nice quality and performance for about the same price as other higher end V-brake setup.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Simmonds
a Weekend Warrior
from Troy MI Date Reviewed: September 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Diablo Freeride park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
online shop
Strengths:
Unbelievable stopping power, easy to adjust, no messy fluids, great price. cheap to replace pads
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Other mech disc brakes, V-brakes, a few Hydro disc sets
Bike Setup:
2002 Kona Stinky Primo, Dropoff triple, XTR rear drive, MRP up front on racefrace cranks, Single track rims, XT hubs, IRC Kujo DH tires, Hell bent bars, ODI rogue grips, Race face seatpost.
Bottom Line:
I got the 8" rotors with speed dial 7 levers and they are like butta! Much better and cheaper than any Hydro set I tried! Highly recommended for anyone who likes to stop when they want to!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlottesville Date Reviewed: August 28, 2006
I've had these for over 5 years and I now rank them up there with a Chris King headset as one of the best components you can buy - period. I still have the original rotors - after many many miles of downhill. Just use good cables and levers (I use XTR) and they stop just as good as hydraulics and have way better modulation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernard Escandor
a
from San Francisco, CA Date Reviewed: August 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Wilder Ranch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Jensonusa.com
Strengths:
Great stopping power; affordable; easy to install;
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Avid Juicy 7
Bike Setup:
Home grown. Access XCL hardtail; full Shimano XT drivetrain; Mavic Crossride wheelset; Manitou R7 fork; Chris King headset;
Bottom Line:
These mechanical brakes are great. They work as good as hydralic brakes. They are very easy to install. Caliper alignment is a breeze. Just use the red inboard and outboard knobs to dail it in. So far, I've not had any problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from La Habra, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
gooseberry mesa
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
La Habra Cyclery
Strengths:
Strong braking, easy set up.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar 1
Bottom Line:
The bb7 is the best brake I have ever used. Brakes are very responsive. Great stopping power easy to adjust. I am a 250 lb rider and they stop my big butt easily. Have not had one bit of problems with them. I am total avid fan.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from La Habra, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: August 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
gooseberry mesa
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
La Habra Cyclery
Strengths:
Strong braking, easy set up.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar 1
Bottom Line:
The bb7 is the best brake I have ever used. Brakes are very responsive. Great stopping power easy to adjust. I am a 250 lb rider and they stop my big butt easily. Have not had one bit of problems with them. I am total avid fan.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beau Swanson
a Weekend Warrior
from saskatoon sk Date Reviewed: August 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
nordic centre canmore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$91.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
uses origonal levers. easy to set up.
Weaknesses:
a little squeaky for the first couple weeks of riding, long time to break in.
Best investment yet. less than 100 bucks and probably the best upgrade I have done yet. Now I have the bike I originaly wanted. would recomend this one for anyone who is wanting to convert to disc brakes
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Cambridge, MA, USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2006
I bought these for the Jay Challenge MTB race and they performed beautifully. The rear came loose on the decent of Jay Peak (due to Cannondale's silly frame spacing and my mounting error), but I was still able to control my bike for the rest of the race with only the front. If only all MTB components were this quality...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Stopping power, trail serviceable, consistency.
Weaknesses:
Weight.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, XT, Magura hydros. V-brakes.
Bike Setup:
Lightweight set-up on aluminum NRS. Thompson stem/post, reba, sram/shimano hybrid drivetrain. Pure cross country.
Bottom Line:
Don't let the bike shops make you feel like you have to have hydro brakes! I was scared to buy these cause they weigh in at least a pound more than the high end hayes, shimano, maguras. But, they are fantastic brakes! Just as good at stopping as the Magura Martas and for 1/4 the price! Over time the strain on the cables can cause you to lose that perfect buttery stopping feeling, but these need tweaking no more often than hydros. The only weakness for an XC guy is the weight. If you want by far the best value for a great component that will last forever, buy the BB7s.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Dillard
a Cross Country Rider
from Reston, VA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Stock on bike
Strengths:
Power, feel, easy to maintain.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
V-Brakes
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XC
Bottom Line:
These are great. The didn't take long to break in, and they feel amazing in comparison with v-brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a
from Mendham, NJ Date Reviewed: August 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Dirt
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Everything. The best money can buy
Weaknesses:
Nada
Similar Products Used:
Old V Brakes
Bike Setup:
Blur. XTR full, Mavic Crossmax XL's
Bottom Line:
These are the best brakes money can buy. Period. You can get them reasonably priced at several shops, online, etc. They work in wet, muddy, dry, ANY condition. Stop on a dime. Easy to maintain, adjust, replace the pads. Everything on these is top notch. Could possibly the best component on my bike. Best investment I made for sure. You wont be dissappointed with these brakes. Forget the hydraulic stuff out there unless you downhill. No need. No bleeding, nothing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tucky Castaños
a
from Hermosillo,Son. Mexico Date Reviewed: July 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Ebay, Complete Set
Strengths:
Super easy to install, great power, almost no maintance.
Weaknesses:
none that I can tell.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT, Hayes (both Hydros)
Bike Setup:
Superlight,Mavic Crossland,velociraptor 26 x 2.0,race face evolve, LX Drivetrain. BB7 Disc Brakes.
Bottom Line:
I was using them from day one with Shimano XT rotor, due to my old wheelset uses centerlock system and a friend gave me the centerlock disc new, they were nice and comparable with hydros, a little more effort to pull but no biddie, recently change my wheelset to a 6 bolt and got new avid wavy disc and the old match was no good, the stopping power matched with avid disc is crazy, 3 months ago I was thinking going to hydros, not anymore, my friends are jelous they paid 400 for they're systems only to find out theirs are comparable with my 140 system, and even better than some of them. this product really rocsk. granted liek some of the guys say they make a little noise sometimes, nothing to worry all disc brakes do this, even on cars.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Hilow
a Cross Country Rider
from San Fran, CA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Plenty
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bikes
Strengths:
Stopping power and disk material, ease of adjustment. Longevity! Simple and therefore brilliant engineering.
Weaknesses:
Heavy and low tech. Pads are hella pricy $$$ (similar to top of the line rubber ones so no biggie).
Similar Products Used:
none-
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC
Bottom Line:
I was one of the first to own this brake when it came out in 2000. I still use them today 5 years later! 4 sets of pads, 3 sets of rims and several relationships.
Recently sanded the rotors with 200 grit emery cloth while installing another set of XT rims and hubs. Adusting the caliper to disk is a snap! loosen the two mounting bolts, back the the adjusting knobs off equally by counting the clicks and looking at the pad to rotor gap, squeeze the brake lever, tighten the mounting bolts, re-adjust the knobs- voila! a perfect alignment with no rub! Sanding (use circular motion) the disks returned the progressiveness of stops and eliminated the "grabbyness" of a glazed disk. Pad contact surface area of disks (texture)should be consistant with that of pad non-contact surfaces.
buy'em!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Hilow
a Cross Country Rider
from San Fran, CA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Plenty
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Pacific Bikes
Strengths:
Stopping power and disk material, ease of adjustment. Longevity! Simple and therefore brilliant engineering.
Weaknesses:
Heavy and low tech. Pads are hella pricy $$$ (similar to top of the line rubber ones so no biggie).
Similar Products Used:
none-
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC
Bottom Line:
I was one of the first to own this brake when it came out in 2000. I still use them today 5 years later! 4 sets of pads, 3 sets of rims and several relationships.
Recently sanded the rotors with 200 grit emery cloth while installing another set of XT rims and hubs. Adusting the caliper to disk is a snap! loosen the two mounting bolts, back the the adjusting knobs off equally by counting the clicks and looking at the pad to rotor gap, squeeze the brake lever, tighten the mounting bolts, re-adjust the knobs- voila! a perfect alignment with no rub! Sanding (use circular motion) the disks returned the progressiveness of stops and eliminated the "grabbyness" of a glazed disk. Pad contact surface area of disks (texture)should be consistant with that of pad non-contact surfaces.
buy'em!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lon Nalder
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, Id Date Reviewed: June 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
almost any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
Reliability, good power for a mech if paired with good levers and full length cable housing, easy adjustabality,
Weaknesses:
sometimes, pads can squeel, but that happens with hydros too
Similar Products Used:
hayes hydros
Bike Setup:
cannondale prophet 600
Bottom Line:
These are great brakes for being mechanical. I bought the base model prophet and are upgrading components to what I want. The brakes were one of the first things I was going to upgrade, but after riding them will be one of the last things I'll upgrade. I put an 8" rotor on front and these things have pretty awesome stopping power. I weigh 210-215 with gear on and I have not had a single problem getting stopped with these. They are easy to adjust and set up. Of course they aren't as smooth as a high end hydro brake, but there about a third of the price also. They even outperform some of the lower line hdros out there.
Overall- If you don't want to spend alot of $$$ and are looking for a great brake this would be the one to get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris C
a Cross Country Rider
from Centennial Date Reviewed: June 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
bike source
Strengths:
look very nice easy to install very easy to adjust powerful
Weaknesses:
gets very hot? but thats normal i guess
Similar Products Used:
hayes mx-1, on the front, this on the back
Bike Setup:
'03 diamondback frame with sun rhinolite rims, bomber mx-comp fork, xt, and custom paint ( by me!)
Bottom Line:
very good for the price, i cannot say i have seen a hydrolic brake for anything near $85, but i would not want to give up my shifter/brake levers. I bought it mainly because the v-brake was wearing down to the bottom of the wear-strips on the rims, and i did not want to replace them. they have good feel, i have never tried hydros but you can tell when the wheel is about to lock up and keep it there... very solid performance. i have not knocked it around much since i installed it, but even when it was fresh out of the box, there was very little squeak, very different from the hayes...
I recommend these if you like your brake levers, or think hydro is a bit to complicated/messy...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris C
a Cross Country Rider
from Centennial Date Reviewed: June 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
bike source
Strengths:
look very nice easy to install very easy to adjust powerful
Weaknesses:
gets very hot? but thats normal i guess
Similar Products Used:
hayes mx-1, on the front, this on the back
Bike Setup:
'03 diamondback frame with sun rhinolite rims, bomber mx-comp fork, xt, and custom paint ( by me!)
Bottom Line:
very good for the price, i cannot say i have seen a hydrolic brake for anything near $85, but i would not want to give up my shifter/brake levers. I bought it mainly because the v-brake was wearing down to the bottom of the wear-strips on the rims, and i did not want to replace them. they have good feel, i have never tried hydros but you can tell when the wheel is about to lock up and keep it there... very solid performance. i have not knocked it around much since i installed it, but even when it was fresh out of the box, there was very little squeak, very different from the hayes...
I recommend these if you like your brake levers, or think hydro is a bit to complicated/messy...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris C
a Cross Country Rider
from Centennial Date Reviewed: June 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Deer Creek Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
bike source
Strengths:
look very nice easy to install very easy to adjust powerful
Weaknesses:
gets very hot? but thats normal i guess
Similar Products Used:
hayes mx-1, on the front, this on the back
Bike Setup:
'03 diamondback frame with sun rhinolite rims, bomber mx-comp fork, xt, and custom paint ( by me!)
Bottom Line:
very good for the price, i cannot say i have seen a hydrolic brake for anything near $85, but i would not want to give up my shifter/brake levers. I bought it mainly because the v-brake was wearing down to the bottom of the wear-strips on the rims, and i did not want to replace them. they have good feel, i have never tried hydros but you can tell when the wheel is about to lock up and keep it there... very solid performance. i have not knocked it around much since i installed it, but even when it was fresh out of the box, there was very little squeak, very different from the hayes...
I recommend these if you like your brake levers, or think hydro is a bit to complicated/messy...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, On, Canada Date Reviewed: May 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
don valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path, Toronto
Strengths:
Stopping power Easy to adjust Easy to install No change in levers to go from normal to disc brakes not costly
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Devinci Cactus
Bottom Line:
Great buy! Best thing I ever bought for my bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stuart
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, On, Canada Date Reviewed: May 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
don valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path, Toronto
Strengths:
Stopping power Easy to adjust Easy to install No change in levers to go from normal to disc brakes not costly
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Devinci Cactus
Bottom Line:
Great buy! Best thing I ever bought for my bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ming Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from HK Date Reviewed: May 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
TMS
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
F Ball
Strengths:
Relatively maintenance Free Incredible ease of adjustability Stopping Power Low cost Reliability adventure racing reliablility You name it, it's there
Weaknesses:
weight, 728 grams frt and rear for the calipers. That equates to over 1.5lb heavier than XTR and close to 1lb heavier than XT !!!! wow
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bike Setup:
ellsworth truth
Bottom Line:
I've just finished a 950km race over 8 days with over 3000meters of climbing through some pretty tough conditions with these brakes.
strickly XC / all mtn brakes, leaning towards XC and more than enough power for xc. i'd get hydros for all mtn /freeriding simply cause they have more stopping power but by no means am i saying the avid's are weak cause they're not.
Bottom Line: they are great! But... they weigh considerably more than xtr/xt hydraulics (easily over 1lb) which for xc racing is a lot.
for the average weekend warrior you can't go wrong, just make sure you get the right compound for your conditions.
4 chili's in overall rating due to the weight factor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Skippy
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington, ON Date Reviewed: May 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
kelso anything
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
local
Strengths:
- stopping power! - easy setup - didn't have to change my levers - adjustable on the fly - multi-adjustable - no hydraulic cables to worry about
Weaknesses:
- a little heavy
Similar Products Used:
parallel push
Bike Setup:
specialized stumpy fox forx race face crankset blah blah
Bottom Line:
blew the adjustment screw on one of my arch rivals, that was all the excuse I needed for new brakes. Dude at the local shop suggested trying the BB7 since it wasn't going to cost much more. Put it on the front where the bad brake was, did a 30k race, and then immediately put one on the back. Amazing stopping power, really easy conversion since my wheelset/frame and fork were disc-ready. Stellar product. Love being able to adjust on the fly. Using avid's full metal jacket cable housings. 4 chilis for value - I think these could be a little cheaper. 5 chilis overall 'cause I love em.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Ashburn, VA, USA Date Reviewed: April 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
(shrug)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
www.universalcycles.com
Strengths:
It stops fast, it's controllable, it doesn't melt or catch fire (don't laugh, I've seen downhillers torch their alcohol-based hydraulic fluid before), and IT'S A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO (insert name of huge japanese bike parts company here)!
Weaknesses:
Not self-adjusting.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Pro-Flex 756, Manitou fork, Noleen rear shock, Avid mechanical front disc, Shimano XT rear V-Brake, Mavic ceramic rims, Shimano XT hubs, and other stuff.
Bottom Line:
As noted, this product works splendidly both wet and dry -- no squeal, no slip, not much black dust. The new C-4 pads (my brake came with B-3 pads) are leaps and bounds better than any earlier formulations. I'm not tempted to see if I can bomb down a mountainside with these, but they stop quick enough to keep from being hit by cars, which is good enough for me. Actually, that's why I bought it; there is one Firebird out there that will never be the same. My bike was fine, though. (grin)
My only complaint is that this brake (like all mechanicals) needs manual adjusting from time to time. That's the downside to using cables instead of fluid; there's no easy way to take up slack. Oh well, I can still go for a month at a time completely ignoring the thing and it works fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Redding, CA Date Reviewed: April 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Recliner
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$140.00
Purchased At:
Sports LTD
Strengths:
Price Braking power Simplicity/reliability Looks
Weaknesses:
I have the BB5, the BB7 is a bit easier to adjust although its not a big deal. They both seem to stop the same (my buddy put the BB7's on his bike)
Squeals for a couple seconds after crossing a creek
Similar Products Used:
I tried some mechanical disc brakes ~2000 and said never again. These bb5's actually rival some top-shelf hydraulic stuff
Bike Setup:
'04 specialized fsr xc pro
Bottom Line:
The very first ride I took I was disappointed. The discs seemed to stop about as well as cheap v-brakes, although they didn't seem to get affected by weather as much. However, I took the bike on a much longer downhill on the second ride and must have better bed in the pads because after a mile or so they just came alive. These brakes do not fade at all (although I can get them to stink pretty good after riding them at 30-40mph for a few minutes). The only downside is that they squeal for a few seconds after water crossings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ifestion Papadam
a Downhiller
from Thessaloniki Date Reviewed: April 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Durability, Perfomance, Easy to use and adjust
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XTR, Magura
Bike Setup:
Canyon Big Mountain 1 frame, Marzochi ETA 120mm fork, Risse Racing Astro 5 shock, Mavic Crossmax rimms, Chris King headset, Shimano XT crankset and redaliers, Scwalbe Big Betty tires.
Bottom Line:
My review is for the BB7, 203mm version. Simple amazing, the best i have ever tried, they even outcome the hydraulic Shimano XTR discs that i used before, because you have constant better gradual feeling of braking at your fingers all the time. If you combined them with soft red disc pads you have incredible secure stopping power without blocking, noise or sights of fatigue. I strongly recommend this combination for downhill and for lower needs like cross country, just use the accompanied avid pads for many many months of use. I will not consider the minor extra weight as a disadvantage since you get amazing performance for the price you pay. The bottom line, buy them with your eyes closed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin Pinski
a Weekend Warrior
from Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: April 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
It's a secret...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Easy to setup. Responsive. Powerfull.
Weaknesses:
Can make squeak noises on occaision.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes hydraulics
Bike Setup:
Trek 6000 with massive upgrades.
Bottom Line:
For the price, this brake beats all the discs out on the market. I purchased the 185mm setup for my front end and it performs awesome. Braking performance is really steady and quick.
Installation and configuration is a breeze and the fact that you don't have to buy bleed kits and new brake levers makes this brake even more attractive.
If you're a downhiller, I recommend a hydraulic setup - but for a weekend warrior who isn't crazy hardcore - this brake is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake Strasser
a Weekend Warrior
from SC Date Reviewed: April 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Dupont Forest, NC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Very contrtolalable, instead of doing a stoppie when stopping as hard as possible it just STOPS! Great for DH.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB5.
Bike Setup:
06 Specialized FSR-XC Avid BB7 203mm font. Avid BB5 160mm rear. Rock Shox Tora 318 SL.
Bottom Line:
Best purchase so far. Money well spent. Not very good for XC because it weighs a little much. But is awesome for DH!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake Strasser
a Weekend Warrior
from SC Date Reviewed: April 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Dupont Forest, NC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Very contrtolalable, instead of doing a stoppie when stopping as hard as possible it just STOPS!
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB5.
Bike Setup:
06 Specialized FSR-XC Avid BB7 203mm font. Avid BB5 160mm rear. Rock Shox Tora 318 SL.
Bottom Line:
Best purchase so far. Money well spent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big Al
a Cross Country Rider
from Flagstaff, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
AZBikes
Strengths:
Easy to install and adjust. (Make sure you purchase with the correct mounting bracket!) Stopping power to spare!
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Many, many canti and V-brakes over the years.
Bike Setup:
Full rigid Karate Monkey w/9spd, Chris King/Delgado wheels, King headset, Answer bars, etc. etc.
Bottom Line:
My first set of discs. While I'm not yet totally convinced they are the best option for distance touring off-road, I'm close. I have yet to experience emergency backcountry servicing of this peticular item. However, they don't seem as though they would pose much of a problem. Not as many parts to them as you'd think. No bones about it, these f***ers stop! I'm 6'3" and 220 and these baby's will put me on a dime with one finger on each lever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin
a Weekend Warrior
from Alexandria, VA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
eBay/Price Point
Strengths:
Amazing power. Work awesome w/my SRAM 9.0 levers! Quiet, stop on a dime Great in wet conditions
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
First disc setup. Used Avid SD 5.0, 7.0, and SD SLs
Can't beleive I have gone this long w/out getting disc brakes. Quiet as a mouse, even on first ride after multiple creek crossings. Amazing product!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Racer
from ellicott city MD US Date Reviewed: April 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
avolon/snowshoe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$69.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike Shop in Baltimore
Strengths:
absolutly gorgous for a meck disc/ lighter then 90% of its compitition/ sram did not lie when they sed "finally a mechanical disc brake that is up to pare with hydr. disc brakes" in fact in my experience it out performes many hydr disc including the shim xtr thats right i just dised xtr/ extremly cheap compared to hydra discs and around the same $ range as most high end v-brakes such as xtr, avid sl, and avid ultimate pro/ no bleeding no mess/ pads easy to replace/ new 2006 rotor cuts through mud and cools better on long desents/ easy to ajust even comes with a fairly idiot proff guide
Weaknesses:
a little on the heavy side makes some noise if not properly tuned/ fairly long pad break in period
Similar Products Used:
avid juicy 5 my pops bike/ shimano dore mechanical/ hayes hfx5 mechanical disc stock of a fuji comp freeride my friend owns
Bike Setup:
access xcl hardtail/ manitou R7 elite/ forte terramax wheel set/ avid bb7 disc/ shim. xt front rear mech, cassette/ shim lx crank hollowtech 2, daul control levers lets me ride better cause of my broken wrists/ sram pc 991 chain/ thompson elite seatpost/ raceface dues xc stem/ forte pro sxl saddle/ forte ctr atb carbon bars, carbon headset spacers, carbon waterbottle cage/ odi rouge lock-on grips/ cane creek IS intergrated headset
Bottom Line:
i've riden and tested many bikes (disc & v-brake) and in my opinion it out performd all the compition except hayes and avid top of the line el camino and juicy 7. if you race or ride xc this is the brake for you. if you are a freerider, all mtb, or downhill consider the bb7 in a 185 or 203mm rotor but make sure your frame and fork can handle the larger spacing required. for those of you who are dazzled by the bling of the xtr let me remind you that before you go buying new brakes that the lx outperformes the xt and xtr but guess whats cheaper requires less mantniense, last longer, and out performs the lx. the avid bb7.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: April 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
all of them!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Simple and fully functional design, light weight, excellent braking power
Weaknesses:
Pads are $16.00 per pair at REI (pricey?)
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes
Bike Setup:
Haro XLS R5
Bottom Line:
Best bang for the buck!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Downhiller
from Rochester Ny Date Reviewed: April 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
Great response , easy to maintain , good for wheelies
Submitted by
Khack
a Cross Country Rider
from Castaic, CA Date Reviewed: March 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt Pinos
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint.com
Strengths:
Nearly perfect design. Adjustability on trail. Braking power.
Weaknesses:
Honestly can't think of one. Does go through pads pretty quick I guess. Pads are a little pricey.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano Hydros
Bike Setup:
GF Cake 1 DLX, Maverick fork,
Bottom Line:
I LOVE Avid's porducts. The love affair started in 2000 with my first simi serious MTB. GF Paragon came with Hayes Hydros. They required constant attention. I tore them off and put on the Avids. Incredibly easy installation. Amazing ability to adjust while on the trail... and without any tools. Stopping power was amazing. Cracked the frame on the Paragon and got a Sugar 2. Pulled the Avids off the paragon and rode the Sugar with them for 3 more years!! Problem free.
Recently bought a new Cake 1 DLX which came with Shimano Hydros. Exact same problem I had with the Hayes. Constant dragging. Limited adjustibilty.
Last night I tore off the Shimanos... shifter/levers, cables and brakes. Installed a full Avid system. Avid 7 BB discs (203mm and 185mm), Speed Dial SL levers, Full Metal Jacket cable system. Installation was a piece of cake.
These brakes may very well be the best designed product I've ever purchased. Not just biking stuff. Best product flat out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cachi
a Cross Country Rider
from Escazu, Costa Rica Date Reviewed: March 16, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Great breaking power. Easy to adjust any time you feel it necesary. Night and day diference upgrading from crappy vbrakes. They look very cool!!!
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
This is my first set of disk brakes.
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche 1.0/Marzochi MX Comp ETA/Mavic crossrides with Panaracer XC fire pro / Avid BB7
Bottom Line:
Great breaking power. After riding only with Vbrakes and suffering from hand and finger fatigue, its great to be able to break with only one finger. My confidence lever went up imediatly, and now I can keep up when going down. My riding partners notice the diference on my rest time out. I'm convinced that mechanical brakes work better and give less problems than hidrolics.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rube
a
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Streets of Boston
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa.com
Strengths:
cheper than hydrualics, less fuss, easy to set up and use.
Weaknesses:
squeak sometimes.
Similar Products Used:
shimano v-brakes
Bike Setup:
spooky metalhead urban assault machine
Bottom Line:
These brakes are awesome for the money. They stop so much harder than v-brakes, in any condition, and they are far more precise as well. super easy to adjust and keep working properly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Barbara, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
I have the Avid BB7 disc brakes. Easy to set up and adjust. Stop nearly as well as Hayes hydraulic disc brakes on my other bike.
Weaknesses:
Minor disk rub noise that requires some fiddling to eliminate.
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB5 mechanical disc brakes, Hayes hydraulic disk brakes.
I don't see why you would mess around with hydraulic brakes given the ease of use and efficiency of these brakes. Granted, I am not a big downhill suicide kind of rider and maybe you need hydraulics for that. For cross country and trail riding, these are great!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ramilcp
a Weekend Warrior
from Whittier, CA Date Reviewed: February 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
El Prieto
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$125.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Huge stopping power, great modulation, consistent performance in the dry or wet, easy setup. Low price (bought in pair).
Weaknesses:
Heavier than V-brakes, squeal when not properly set up (just like everything else).
Similar Products Used:
First disc brake used...
Bike Setup:
IRO Mia! rigid single speed with all-mountain tires.
Bottom Line:
I'm a believer! After using v-brakes for years, the difference when I switched to avid mech discs were profound. Great stopping power with a light touch. I could feel the modulation that was practically non-existant with my old v-brakes. The caliper and rotor are heavier than a v-brake set up, but for the little difference in weight, you get better performance and control of your bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jesse
a Cross Country Rider
from halifax, ns canada Date Reviewed: February 18, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$170.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
Quick easy to set-up. Cheap great feel easily adjustable. Quickly replacable pads.
Weaknesses:
not free
Similar Products Used:
hayes mech
Bike Setup:
BB5 and SD7ti, raceface turbine LP, X9 Sram trigger/derail, rockshox SID race, norco bigfoot, yadda yadda yadda
Bottom Line:
Amazing product! Great feel! no more on/off switches for brakes (unless you like it twitchy!). Gambled on going to disc's and am very satisfied with BB5's. Im 200lbs 6 ft and i XC alot 2300km last season (no big drops or jumps more Yumps) i beat these and tore a pair of tires off the wheels but the avids ate it up! I replaced my rear pads but my fronts will likely get another season or two.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a
from Raleigh, NC Date Reviewed: February 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
EASY to install and set up. Their stopping power is great, and they are cheap. The pads lasted about 2000 miles on my commuter bike and about 1000 on my off road/ downhill bike before I replaced them
Weaknesses:
Sometimes when they get wet (sometimes, not all the time) they make a very loud sound like a trumpet, but it works better at getting people out of my way than anything else.
Bottom Line:
Cheap price, durable, great power, easy to maintain, NO FLUID to deal with, no bleeding your brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Norco, La. USA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Comite, La
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$212.00
Purchased At:
Blue Sky cycling
Strengths:
Easy front wheel installation, haven't done rear yet. Precise but not really clear instructions
Weaknesses:
Poor to no tech assistance from Avid. Assembly boxing resulted in a caliper actually frozen or "crushed" into the rotor making the assembly useless.
Bike Setup:
Thudbuster ST,Rynolite XL's, IRC Mythos, XT hubs, BB7 disc brakes all on a 2005 Gary Fisher Marlin hardtail.
Bottom Line:
I got someone on the phone at Avid, supposedly technically knowledgeable of the products, who didn't know what the problem could be but knew that I needed to call the dealer, not him. He didn't even know the parts that came with the Avid Flack jacket cables nor how the accessories tubes were used. Oh yeah, he wasn't interested in finding out and calling me back either. I couldn't believe I got such a brush off from the dealer, Blue Sky Cycling. I've only recently begun to do business with them and found them efficient and friendly, actually better than Jenson USA, but when I called them for help on the frozen caliper they could offer none, they merely sell parts and told me to call Avid or purchase another rear brake set up and send in the defective one. Of course, I had to pay shipping on the replacement set and of the defective set, sounds like a win-win deal for Blue Sky, no accountability. If Avid trades out the set with them, then they'll give me a credit, if Avid doesn't, then they'll send them back to me. All concerning an unused product. I'll keep you posted on how this goes with Blue Sky and Avid. (3) Chilis because the front brake is great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Witkowski
a Cross Country Rider
from Rockford Date Reviewed: January 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
split tree
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
ebay!!!!!
Strengths:
reliable, cheap, kick ass, cheap, better than most hydro discs and much cheaper, tooles adjustabuility
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
haro escape frame (custom) marzocchi bomber mx compw/eta,xtr bb and crank, pc990 casset, x9shifters and rear d, crankbros candy petddals, xtr hubs, sun ryno rims and these bad ass brakes
Bottom Line:
if u want stoping power supirior to almos ANNY other brakeing system for less$$$ than most get these you wont regret there simple sleek design and there tool-les adjustabuility
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared
a Weekend Warrior
from Auburn, NY, USA Date Reviewed: January 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bear Swamp
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Great stopping power, predictable, reliable in all riding conditions.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
have not used any other disc system.
Bike Setup:
'03 Giant Rainier
Bottom Line:
The Avid BB system is fool proof, and the company put time into making the product right the first time. It is easy to change the brake pad, and adjust the pads with the dial. These brakes stop consistantly and predictably, with good modulation every time. My bike came stock with the Avid BB disc brake system, an excellent selection on Giant's part.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Clark
a Racer
from Middlefield, CT, USA Date Reviewed: December 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain, Manchester CT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Manchester Cycle Shop
Strengths:
Instilation was very simple. Adjustment was even easier
Weaknesses:
None that I can see.
Similar Products Used:
Formula Mechanical Disk, Hayes Hydrolic Disk
Bike Setup:
Does it matter? Lever is XT.
Bottom Line:
I could only afford one for now so I have a rear BB7 with a 7" rotor.
I first bough Formula Mechanical Disk many years ago. They had no power and so I quickly dismissed disk brakes. Then came hydros. Every pair I ever used worked great so I was sold, but $$$. I finally set up my mothers bike with Hayes Hydros. They were defective (leaked from transfer valve) and it took them forever to fix. After all the great reviews I finally decided to try the Avids. I live in the North East and the ice on the rims is what drove me to switch.
I have the BB7. Having easy adjustment to both pads is wonderful. I was able to set them in in minutes such that their was no pad rub, no disk flexing, and instant stopping. Be sure to read the directions and only use the cable adjuster only to take out slack and use the pad adjusters to adjust engagement. Basically you adjust the inner pad to be as close as possible and then the outer pad (the one that moves) to set engagement position. It's wonderfully simple.
A couple items to note. Cable routing is critical. At first I did not have the cable fully secured. It would move around a bit when the brake was engaged. Adding several zip ties fixed this and the brakes positive response increased immensely. Second, even though I had a new stainless steel slicks cable and new housing, the brake felt "draggy." At the suggestion of my LBS, I took apart the brake lever, cleaned and lubed the pivot, and reinstalled. Problem solved. Before I did this I had to have the spring adjustment on the BB7 all the way tight. Now I have it all the way loose.
I came from a Avid Ti linear pull brake which worked great. With bearings on both sides of the caliper, it was very smooth. It seems Avid has employed this same technology on this brake and accordingly it is very smooth. This brake is stronger, smoother, and better modulated then my linier pull brakes.
The one item I agonized about was 7" vs. 6" rotors. I can't speak for the front, but for the rear 7" is MORE then enough. 6" would have been fine, but 7" I have. I do ride big mountains occasionally so I will be happy in the long run I have 7". I'm told they heat up less on the big descents.
Anyone considering the switch, save the $$$ and hassle from hydros and get the BB7.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul C
a Weekend Warrior
from Boca Raton, FL, USA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Amazing stopping power. Easy to install and maintain. Great quality.
Weaknesses:
None that i can think of.
Similar Products Used:
Tektro IO
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche 3.0 Disk. Avid BB5 disk brakes.
Bottom Line:
I got these for $110 (free shipping) off eBay, for front and rear set!!! They were so easy to install, totally easy to adjust and once given a ride to break in, give amazing breaking power and unbelieveable modulation. For mechs, Im stuck on Avid!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JOHN
a Cross Country Rider
from MD Date Reviewed: November 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
LOCH RAVEN
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
PRICEPOINT
Strengths:
VERY EASY TO INSTAL AND SET UP, EASY TO ADJUST, YOU EVEN CAN DO IT WITH OUT REMOVING ANY THING IF YOUR HANDS ARE SMALL ENOUGH
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
STOCK HAYES
Bike Setup:
IRON HORSE WARRIOR DISC, XT HUBS, MAVIC DISC RIMS, AVID BB DISCS, DT SWISS CENTERLOCK, LXM580 CASS, MEGA 9 SIIFTERS AND LEVERS,TRUVATIV CRANK
Bottom Line:
GREATST ADDITION TO MY BIKE BY FAR. I AN VERY SATISFIED WITH THEM. THEY ARE A BIT OF A PRICE BUT WORTH IT
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Witkowski
a Weekend Warrior
from Rockford, il, usa Date Reviewed: November 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
uh idk split tree
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
ebay!!!!
Strengths:
every thing i got a front and rear set off ebay and wow iv used hydros befor but these are more adjustable cleaner and more reliable
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
some hydros
Bike Setup:
haro escape frame, marzocchi mx comp w/ eta120, full sram top line drivetrain excdept x9 trig shifters and x9 rear D
Bottom Line:
these brakes are the best you are ever going to get need more power? get biger discs and caliper mounts hydro is for thos flashy rich ppl but you can laugh at them when u fly by cuzz the lost therebreak fluid kuzz the line was cut these brakes ar extreamly reliable half the price of hydro and id say better than hydro, but if ur a harcore dh person u might want the hyd like super high en hayes or if u just pedal around town to ur friends house dont was ut money stick with the cheaper v brakes
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Submitted by
k e
a Weekend Warrior
from victoria Date Reviewed: November 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Powerful. Affordable. Simple is smart.
Weaknesses:
nope.
Similar Products Used:
Magura Hydraulic rim brakes, shimano V
Bike Setup:
Older cro-mo hardtail with upgrades. A2Z disc brake converter for non disc frames going on tomorrow.
Bottom Line:
I have used these on friends' bikes, and friends have used as well. I am getting a set that came off a factory built bike that has had them removed. I will be using the BBDB aka BB7 version. (This version has the adjustor on the brake body that is missing from the BB5).
I have been informed that (in Taiwan anyhow) Shimano's new hubs use a spline to fit disc rotors, and NO LONGER SUPPORT 6 HOLE STANDARD ROTOR MOUNTING. I was told that it is no longer possible to order 6 Hole Disc Brake Hubs from Shimano.
I can only assume that Shimano is trying to close Avid out. I was unable to find a contact email at Avid's website to ask them for suggestions. I had been hoping to ride an XT or Deore. I am forced to use another brand of hub (found a decent non-shimano one with a silent clutch - bonus!).
Beware and check things out with your LBS before you buy.
This may be an international market issue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin Seib
a Weekend Warrior
from Battleford, Sk, Can. Date Reviewed: November 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Peegee man
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Great stopping power, adjustable, and do not squeek alot when wet or dust gets in them.
Weaknesses:
Front rotar bent easily.
Similar Products Used:
Cheap tektro v-brakes.
Bike Setup:
2005 norco scrambler deore rear derailer aceara front derailer, raceface evole dh cranks, gigapipe bb, rapid fire shifterlever combo, alex x2100 rims, shimano m450 disk hubs,free agent pedals, djIII fork.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is this brske system rocks and is highly recommended. Great for the price. Who needs hydros? Great for budget bikers who want disk brakes with incredible stopping power.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian Binstead
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
local dealer
Strengths:
These are the single most impressive upgrade I have ever made to my 4 year old but still great 5" FS Marin. I have hydraulics on a new Specialized Enduro, and they are great, but 0% better. If you buy a new bike, hyd is "the thing", but if you want to upgrade, Avid mech is a no brainer in terms of value.
Weaknesses:
Absolutely none in terms of performance, just maybe cool factor. I did bend AVID discs a few times, whereas my new(er) ride has Shimano XT discs and I've yet to damage one riding a season on a similar enviro.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of rim brakes, Magura Louise and Julie ( waste 'o investment )
Bike Setup:
which one? 5" FS, all XT, both all mountain bikes which are subjected to a bit of everything albeit max.4-5' drops.
Bottom Line:
A no brainer in terms of value for upgrading your trusty steed. Absolutley no performance downside to HYD. If you are buying a new ride, you must go HYD if only for the cool factor of where you need to be.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Gonzales
a Downhiller
from Philippines Date Reviewed: October 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Mega DH Trail, Taytay
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
VELOcity Bike Shop
Strengths:
Finally a cable-actuated disc brake that works like disc brakes should. Avid has obsessed over the design and it shows. It has power and a light action at the lever. Throw in the Caliper Positioning System (CPS) which ensures perfect, effortless alignment of the caliper to the rotor and you have an affordable, high performance disc brake.
Weaknesses:
Nothing yet..
Similar Products Used:
Standard V-brakes system..
Bike Setup:
Azonic Eliminator w/ FOX DHX 5.0, Marzocchi 888, Avid BB7 Disc brake system 7"&SD5 levers, Shimano 105 der & sprocket & SRAM Rocket trigger shifter, Truvativ Hussefelt DH Crank w/ Boxguide&Bashring, Mavic ex729 rims, Nokian 2.3 Gazzaloddi tyres, Answer Pro Taper 7075, FSA stem, Da Bomb saddle&seatpost, Raceface lockon grips.
Bottom Line:
Roulez vite, mais roulez intelligent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Art
a Cross Country Rider
from Oceanside, CA Date Reviewed: October 10, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Wheel World
Strengths:
Awesome brakes, switched from stock V's on a Tassajara. I'm a big guy and they still stop on a dime! No worrying about leaking fluid, easy to set up, look like they'll last forever, better braking when its wet (and when its dry...) relatively cheap
Weaknesses:
I had to buy a bracket to mount it on my Fisher, and I had to buy a new wheelset to use them, but well worth it (but I hear the new ones come with the mount and the wheelset, a big plus)
Similar Products Used:
Stock V's on a fisher, old cheap single pivot road brakes (yuck!)
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Tassajara, delore group, Avid BB discs, Crank bros Candy C's, Panaracer fire XC pro tires, Meridian GPS mounted on the bars (coolest thing you can put on your bars ;-))
Bottom Line:
If you like to stop instead of crashing into things, buy these brakes. The hyrdo.s are cool but too expensive and I dont want to mess with topping off fluids or anything like that. Just give me well built simple mechanical design that will last a lifetime! Great value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Emil Monfort
a Cross Country Rider
from Bacolod City. Philippines Date Reviewed: October 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Nangui, Patag Diotay, Hakuna Matata Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
form a friend
Strengths:
Great modulation, Superb breaking power
Weaknesses:
Rode it during heavy rain, rocky, muddy terrain. Needed adjustment right after the ride.
Similar Products Used:
First time user of disc brakes. My friends use, HOPE, XT, AVID 5 and Juicy disc brakes, so i get to test them as well.
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XC. Fox Vanilla R, Mavic Ceramic rims, XT Hubs, DT Swiss Aero spokes, EA 70 Carbon Flat Bar, Tioga Bar ends, WTB Weirwolf Grips, XTR shifter/levers, LX cranks, XTR derailers, WTB Rocket V saddle, Avid Mech brakes, Race face stem, Cane Creek headset, Specialized Roll X tires.
Bottom Line:
A heavy upgrade from my old XT V brakes. Under muddy and wet trails, adjustment needed right after the ride. Otherwise, modulation is great and stopping power is awesome. Except for the manual adjustment after the muddy trail and the weight, nothing to complain. Great bang for the buck. I would recommend to those wanting to upgrade to Discs without thinking about the weight. Not for the weight weenies. For those who want stopping power and modulation on cable Disc brakes, Avid is the choice.
$ 99.99
Overall Rating:
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