The tasty looks and comfy feel of the super-light lever. Avid Juicy 3 Disc Brake so good at so many things that it's hard to even put in a category like cross country or all mountain.
Submitted by
yulmp
a Weekend Warrior
from hunter, ny, usa Date Reviewed: November 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
elm ridge loops
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Low cost, real braking power, great rotors, in 2 years still work fine(just a little soft).
Weaknesses:
no adjustments, bad modulation, worst bleeding system ever. Most lbs can't get all the air out
Similar Products Used:
none this was my first disc brake set
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Prophet 3 all stock with CB mallet pedals.
Bottom Line:
Treat these brakes like crap. Use & abuse. For being the cheapest brake in avids line they perform great. Never let me down. I'm glad i chose a bike with hydraulic brakes instead of the ball bearing kind. When mine fail they will get upgraded to something that have better modulation and control(Elixir CR).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bubble1983
a Cross Country Rider
from Nottingham, U.K Date Reviewed: October 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Edale Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
They work...
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
7's, Saint m810.
Bike Setup:
Felt compulsion 2,
Bottom Line:
They ain't realy for DH use for the people who complain about that... i've had these for a year, i ride 5, 6 days a week and 1 of those is in the Peaks (English mud, grit and rivers), and i have changed to pads once... no other problem with them. I would buy them if i was on a budgit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andreWolf79
a Cross Country Rider
from london uk Date Reviewed: October 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
xc
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$49.00
Purchased At:
evan cycles
Strengths:
easy to set up, out of the box and on to the bike job!! plenty of stopping power! good value for money!!
Weaknesses:
i think the weight compare to others but.... I'm not a racing freak!!
Similar Products Used:
upgraded from tekctro mechanical disks!!
Bike Setup:
carrera subway2,Rockshox Dart 3 Fork, Shimano SLX FCM665 Hollowtech II Double Chainset,Shimano SLX FD- Double Chainset, Specialized The Captain Control Tyre
Bottom Line:
i like the feel, easy to fit, service & maintain, i did abuse them doing 13mi down hill in italy & they behaved pretty good!!! if u r looking for a good value for money upgrade these r for u..... if u r looking hard core riding down hill... well spend the money... it's a completely different game!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hardrock_Spec
a Weekend Warrior
from Ontario Date Reviewed: October 5, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Pinkbike
Strengths:
Thing Stops Sweet Self ajusting is a big + and You get a good brake For the Price
Weaknesses:
self ajusting is also a big - because you cant dile them in you need to wait till it ajusts. Very Squeaky at times... but i might just need more pads also not Matchmaker Compatable
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB5's, Juicey 5's, Avid Elixer
Bottom Line:
Good Brake For the Price if you want some hydros but dont have alot of money Go Juicey!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kenscannon
a Weekend Warrior
from west farmington,ohio,usa Date Reviewed: September 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
west branch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came on bike,cannond
Strengths:
Lots of stopping power,I'm 215 and they can stop me going down hill at a fast rate. Smooth action and stays alined well after 200 miles of trail rough riding
Weaknesses:
the rotors hit the pads every once and awile
Bike Setup:
All stock cannondale rize 5
Bottom Line:
Don't turn them done they are a great set of brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sweetums
a Weekend Warrior
from Wallingford, CT, USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came on Bike
Strengths:
They work very well, I have seen no downfall in any conditions. I can feel no difference between them being dry or wet. When going down some steeper trails they could work better, sometimes I have to lock the rear up to slow myself down. I have heard the juicy 5 is more powerful. I just started trail riding and I found them to be not powerful enough in some spots, but generally they work well.
Weaknesses:
I cannot get the front caliper adjusted perfectly. They still touch the rotor in one spot, so the rotor may be slightly off center or warped. They screech and squeal like crazy! It doesn't bother me, but I'm sure it bothers everyone else walking to class but at least they hear me coming and can get out of the way. I have not bled the brakes yet but I will probably have a shop do that.
Bike Setup:
Motobecane Fantom Pro 29
Bottom Line:
If they come on the bike, go for it. If you are looking to upgrade from v brakes, go for it. If you are looking to up grade any type of disc brake, either mechanical or hydraulic, probably not your best choice. I have never used mechanical disc brakes but I'm sure they work equally as well as the juicy 3. Over all I am happy with them, there are a few issues but nothing too major.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
keltnera
a Weekend Warrior
from Tallhassee, FL Date Reviewed: August 31, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Red Bug/Overstreet
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
They work great. My first ride was in the rain and they worked great and have ever since. Easy to adjust.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
First set of disc brakes.
Bike Setup:
Avid Juicy 3 came stock on my 09 GF X-Caliber. The only changes other than grips and pedals is my 1X9 Blackspire setup.
Bottom Line:
I am coming from V-brakes. These hydraulic disc brakes are awesome! With my old setup, I basically had no brakes in the rain or other wet conditions. The Avid Juicy 3 work great in all condition. I've only adjusted the front break and it was very easy to do. Love them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean McQuillen
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: August 6, 2009
Great modulation with a buttery feel, great power, quiet.
Weaknesses:
None-so far.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes 9s
Bike Setup:
Giant Trance 2 - XT drive-train, Thompson seat post, Rock Shox Reba, Fox Float R/Maestro Suspension, Kenda Nevegal 2.1 all around, Mallet 2 pedals.
Bottom Line:
Now I realize I just got these, but I think there must be something wrong with a lot of the reviewer's set-up's, or Avid Juicy 3s are very inconsistent and I was lucky enough to get a good set. I'm 210 pounds, and I'm an aggressive rider. I bring my bike into the famed Cove bike shop on the North Shore for all of it's major work, and recently had it in for a $900.00 tune up. They swapped out the Hayes 9s for the Juicy 3s and I cannot believe the difference. These are fantastic. They modulate better than the Hayes ever did (replaced due to cracked piston and thin discs), but the power is truly fantastic ... and this with 6" rotors all around. Again, I'm 210 pounds, so I really don't know what is going on with all of the 'lack of power' complaints. The Trance is not a 'Big Bike' but I put it through it's paces beyond what it was designed for, regularly doing North Shore downhill runs. Maybe Avid has fixed something as I just had them put on the bike July 2009 at the very experienced mechanics suggestion. I would have never allowed them on the bike had I read all of these reviews prior, but that would have been a mistake. Maybe time will tell. If they fail, I will return to do a 180, but these seem like very solid stoppers
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cikman22jp
a Weekend Warrior
from MAS Date Reviewed: August 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
it is design for the purpose only perhaps.. XC/AM .. quite good in stopping during Am & trailing day ..
Weaknesses:
it just can't handle downhilling
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
it is designed for the intended purpose only
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
richparry
a Cross Country Rider
from uk Date Reviewed: July 18, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Sunset MTB, Cardiff
Strengths:
These brakes came as standard on my bike.
I've used them a lot over the past 6 months in snow, wind rain, dust, mud etc. I think they work fine and regularly stop me very quickly from speeds over 45mph on one of my regular road sections.
Weaknesses:
I've had to re-center the calipers a few times, but it only takes a minute and is easy to do. No problems with bleeding the system.
Similar Products Used:
Juicy 5's
Bike Setup:
Orange G3 standard setup
Bottom Line:
Like anything else, if set up properly they work fine. I have read a few reports in these review pages with people saying they have problems with brake fade, noisy brakes, centering etc.
If you maintain them properly then they will be fine for XC use and provide immense stopping power. Just like on a car, it's the front brake that provides the most stopping power, yet in these reviews lots of people say it's the rear brake that doesn't work.
For the money, they're great. If you want more, spend more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JoeC
a Weekend Warrior
from Japan Date Reviewed: July 11, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came with the bike
Strengths:
Nice configuration of both the caliper and the rotor
Weaknesses:
UNACCEPTABLE noise from the rear brake!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M535
Bike Setup:
Marin MV 5.6 with Rockshox Tora Solo Air 302, Fox Float RP2 Propedal and Kenda Excavator 2.35"
Bottom Line:
Just within only a month of experiencing this Juicy Three, I have decided to replace it with Shimano SLX. The noise level from the rear brake is so unacceptable and that from the front is starting to annoy me! Based on my experience LBS, the noise problem from Juicy cannot be practically solved...gotta live and ride with it. Bye bye...Juicy! I'm now looking forward to Shimano SLX.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wkndwarrior
a Weekend Warrior
from S.C., CA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2009
Favorite Trail:
single track...twisty...downhills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Easy to center brakes for no drag. Lever shape is nice.
Weaknesses:
FADE....FADE....FADE in rear brake.
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB7, Magura Louis, Hayes Mechanicals.
Bike Setup:
'09 Specialized Pitch with RP23.
Bottom Line:
On intial rides these brakes worked great. Had to center the rotors a few times, but was easy to do out on the trail. After a month, rear brakes started to fade...bad. On looong downhills, brakes lever would almost go to the bar. On top of that, got a distinct burning smell from rear brakes. Shop repaired them twice (supposedly) and fade came back again. I have zero confidence in braking and think the old BB7's held up better...no joke.
It seems reading from other reviews that alot of Avid brakes are having fade issues. That's "POOR" quality and it seems to be a habit of the Avid line. Seems pointless to have "big money", "high tech", systems that don't live up to their intended purpose...stopping with strength and confidence.
Funny thing is if you go on the Santa Cruz bicycles video section you'll catch one of the downhill racers commenting on his brakes not being up to par. Ironically, hes running Avids too.
Doubt if Avid is going to resolve these issues, cause magazines swear by them. From what I understand from a bike shop owner, quality is not what Avid/Rockshock is about. I believe it...first hand. Seems to be more of a safety issue....we are talking brakes...and brakes seem to be super important....aren't they???
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler Kiefer
a Cross Country Rider
from san juan capistrano Date Reviewed: May 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
rock-it
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
revo
Strengths:
They look good, grab strong.
Weaknesses:
I'm hard on my back brake and juicy 3's can't handle it, I've had them tuned up by 2 different bike shops and they've gotten worse with every adjustment. they leak and the lever moves closer to the handlebar when I use them.
Similar Products Used:
avid bb7 shimano rim brakes.
Bike Setup:
specialized p. all mountain, many components broken and replaced.
Bottom Line:
I'm replacing the juicy 3 I have on the back with a hayes 8" after 2 years of unsatisfactory performance. I hope the hayes are better. I never had problems with shimano rim brakes. The bike shop guys swear hydraulics are much better but after 2 years I'm not convinced I've been carrying an allen wrench with me on rides so I can fix the lever on the trail every couple of hours. When they get a little hot they drip fluid, The bike shop guys can't fix it. More trouble than they're
worth you're better off with good mechanical brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taco
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz, California, USA Date Reviewed: May 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Truck Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Best Bike Zone
Strengths:
These brakes have great stopping power. Also have really nice modulation and its easy to do 1 finger braking when riding. They also look cool in black.
Weaknesses:
It is a single clamp lever so you have to remove grips and shifter to install or remove. Kind of hard to adjust so the pads don't hit the rotor.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes sole,Hayes HFX 9
Bike Setup:
2006 gary fisher opie Custom
Bottom Line:
These are super good brakes for the price. Adding Metallic pads would surely give more stopping power. They have much more stopping power than my old mechanical disc brakes. These are 5 times better than Hayes Sole.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeffkill
a Downhiller
from Concord, NC USA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Wilsons
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came on bike
Strengths:
This review is for the Juicy 3 SL's that came on my 08 Specialized Pitch Pro. Good power and modulation. These brakes have been unbelievably quiet for me as well.
Weaknesses:
None so far. Not sure if others didnt have the brakes set up properly, but I havent had any problems yet. Im also not sure if there is any real difference between the SL's that specialized spec's on their bikes, and the standard 3's.
Similar Products Used:
Too many
Bike Setup:
08 Specialized Pitch Pro with a few upgrades.
Bottom Line:
I've used these brakes on a few sustained DH runs on my AM bike and have never felt the need for more brake. The 8" rotor up front, and the fact that I only weight 155 might have alot to do with them having enough power for me. These are actually the first Avid hydro's I've ever had on any of my bikes. I was really surprised by them, and quickly changed my mind about swapping them out right away. I normally run Hayes brakes on all of my bikes, but these brakes have left me wanting to try some of the higher end Avid's now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
colpumpkinnuts
a Racer
from North Central, MA USA Date Reviewed: April 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Leominister State Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Lots of power, nice lever feel, quiet
Weaknesses:
dragged to the point where they needed to be serviced/replaced
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB7
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSR XC Pro
Bottom Line:
These came with my bike. After a little bit of serious use the rear pads started dragging on the rotor a lot. So much that wheel would only spin about a 2 turns with a good spin in the work stand. I tried bleeding, adjusting and everything else I could think of to fix this problem without success. It was only slightly more expensive to by a new BB7 than to buy a caliper rebuild kit, which I suspect it needed. It shouldn't have needed a rebuild at this point, I had only gotten a month or two of serious riding done on it. The front is starting to drag now. I'll probably be replacing it with something else in the next month or two. They stop well but they're not worth the money if they're just going to stop working correctly after a month or two.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JaCk
a Downhiller
from England Date Reviewed: April 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The Track Portreath
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came With Bike
Strengths:
At first these had great stopping power with no problems at all. No mechanical problems in the first year and a bit. Good for cheap effective brakes.
Weaknesses:
No Adjustment, brake makes annyoing high pitched noise, sticky brake level.
Similar Products Used:
HAyes Stroker
Bike Setup:
Spec All Mountain, Rockshox Pike, Transition Rims
Bottom Line:
PLEASE PLEASE do not buy this product,when coming to bleed my brakes, the seal started leaking, leaking all the DOT fluid inside. No adjustment. There are V Brakes better than this crap, if you want cheap effective disc brakes, grab yourself some mechanicals cos they are far better than this. If you are a novice cross country rider consider this brake, but for for all mountain, downhill dont get it, brakes are a supposed to minimise going out of control, with effective stopping power, these arnt up to standard.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr. Ouch
a Weekend Warrior
from Western WI Date Reviewed: April 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
White Tail Ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
front works decent, back locks up, cheap
Weaknesses:
turkey gobble, bad braking power, get misaligned easily , suck in general
Bike Setup:
fisher hoo koo e koo 2008 stock except air fork
Bottom Line:
I have had a ridiculous number of issues with this brake, from the notorious turkey gobble to misalignment to poor modulation. I've put organic pads on it and moved the caliper in and out on washers. If you are smart enough to read this before you go out and buy the brake, i hope you're smart enough to not buy it... it came on my bike and i'm replacing it as soon as possible...THIS BRAKE SUCKS
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colorado Yooper
a Cross Country Rider
from pat.mattson@wispertel.net Date Reviewed: April 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Konosha Pass
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Easy set-up, adjustments
Weaknesses:
not for agressive clydesdales
Bottom Line:
These are my first Hydro Disks, I am on a budget and it was in price point. Juicy 3's fit my riding style, I am a cross country rider that is not into, DH, Jumping, ect..I am 6'2" 225, the brakes are a little lite for my size, however they meet my needs. Maybe, when I upgrade in a few years I will go for higher end brake, but if they are doing the job why change?
By the way, these brakes are 100% easier to fix/adjust than my truck brakes. They are a simple hydralic system. No need to build a bigger mouse trap, it just gets more expensive, with the same results. You stop. Thats why it gets 5 Chili's
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
studbike
a Cross Country Rider
from boston ma Date Reviewed: April 10, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on my new bike
Strengths:
awesome braking
Weaknesses:
sharp edge on the lever's screw
Similar Products Used:
shimano xt, juicy 7, hayes, magura
Bike Setup:
2008 cannondale scalpel 4 stock
Bottom Line:
be weary of any reviews that say these don't stop fast enough. most of the time it's because people have touched the rotor, leaked grease from their shock on it, or have just gotten unlucky with a defective set. these days in 2009 virtually all disc brakes stop on a dime with perfect modulation, as my set of juicy 3's do. if you're an especially heavy guy, perhaps you should try before you buy, but for the rest of us (i weigh 170) these will easily lock up either wheel. I love the lever feel, its a bit on the "longer-travel" side of things. if you've ever ridden hayes, you know those are "short-travel" in terms of modulation feel at the lever. i prefer longer. the only thing i don't like about these levers is that the screw that attaches the lever to the bar is a bit too long and has a sharp edge on it. this is totally unacceptable. it is sharp enough that if i hit my finger hard on it, it will make a tiny cut. not cool. -1 chili for that
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Low
a Weekend Warrior
from Johore, Malaysia Date Reviewed: April 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Plentong
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$105.00
Purchased At:
BikePro
Strengths:
An entry level hydraulic disc brake system with slick looks and good lever feel with acceptable braking power.
Weaknesses:
The hydraulic reservoir LEAKS!!!! and hell...DOT fluid, PEELs off paint if, exposed areas are not clean up immediately! I am pretty sure that this is a common problem for Avids as 7 out of 10 users that I know off seem to experience leakage with a probability of at least twice (50% occurs right out of box - me included). This is pure crap! I just don't have confidence with brand new products that fail right out of the box. SRAM had successfully turn around Rock Shox into a great performer and now they should consider Avid.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Deore (crapy lever feel aside...these sure is one of the best and most problem free budget hydraulic disc brake in the market).
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F3, Chris King ISO Hubs, Mavic rims, Fox Suspension, XTR and XO combo, Hope, Thomson Seatpost, Stem and Handlebar, Canecreek Headset
Bottom Line:
If you are not a mechanic yourself, replace it fast! The best place for Juicy Three is in the bins! Or get them displayed in your room coz they sure make fine decorative items...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LandoCommando
a Downhiller
from Ithaca Date Reviewed: March 30, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS - Came on bike
Strengths:
- Slow you down.
Weaknesses:
- No stopping power. Dont get me wrong, these brakes WILL stop you... eventually.
- No lever adjustment.
Bike Setup:
P.2
Bottom Line:
Im 6'3" and weigh 220 lb, these brakes are on the weaker side for my size. I let my GF ride the bike and the brakes had plenty of power to stop her but she 1/3 my size. I have 160mm rotors will also play a part in not being able to bring me to a halt to my satisfaction. My next purchase will be juicy 7s with 203mm rotors.
After the initial "wear in" the power picked up a noticeable amount but still didnt affect it enough for me to feel confident in the brakes.
Good value for the money though
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SteveK
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlestown, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: February 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Glenrock
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came on my Giant Tra
Strengths:
Great modulation and power for a cross country brake.
Weaknesses:
I have ongoing issues with one piston in the front caliper getting stuck, but it's a five minute fix.
Similar Products Used:
Avid BB7's and Juicy 5. Hayes 9's.
Bike Setup:
Giant Trance
Bottom Line:
I've run these for the last 2 years and am mightily pleased. The bottom line is that these brakes have similar power and modulation as the more expensive Juicy's at a greatly reduced price...and I do know what I'm talking about as I have Juicy 5's on my longer travel bike. The downside is that they aren't quite as nice looking or finished as well. Here's a tip. Upgrade the standard rotors to something with a bit more bite. I'm using jet black rotors (an Aussie company so not sure if available OS) and they've made a great deal of difference plus removed some weight. Removed one chilli for the sticking piston.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Garfield16
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio Date Reviewed: February 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
op schnaubel
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
superb modulation
Weaknesses:
not the most powerful stoppers
Bike Setup:
xt drivetrain, easton components, 4.7-in trail bike
Bottom Line:
The first thing that jumped out at me about these brakes was their modulation. It was great.
I can tell that most of the people who reviewed these brakes have unrealistic expectations about what they are supposed to do. Here's what they are NOT supposed to do: have abusive power. If you want that, go for Avid Code's or Elixer R. But what these braks ARE supposed to do (and they do very well) is provide smooth stopping power for a racer/trail rider. Especially on a race course, where over-zealous braking must be paid for with vigorous pedaling. Thses brakes provide the soft touch to ease down a sensitive trail without leaving a skid mark, (as is the case with all Juicy's) and that is why I bought them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
johanj
a Cross Country Rider
from Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa Date Reviewed: January 26, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Illovo Cycles
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Noisy. Takes the joy out of riding. Constantly rubbing. Minimal Stopping power.
Similar Products Used:
Magura July (much beter stopping power)
Bike Setup:
Trek Top Fuel 7
Bottom Line:
They are weaker than my Shimano Alivio Cable Disk Brake system on my wife's bike. They are extremely noisy and I don't know what the noise is all about because it isn't stopping the bike. I wouldn't buy these in a million years. They came on the trek bike and will be replaced by my old Magura July system this weekend.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
foxiu
a Weekend Warrior
from chorzów, PL Date Reviewed: January 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Beskidy Mountain, PL
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
inter sport
Strengths:
good modulation, cheap, looks quite good.
Weaknesses:
braking power, rotors are weak.
Similar Products Used:
avid juicy 5, grimeca system 2
Bike Setup:
reign 2 frame, z1 fr sl (2003) fork, other stuff
Bottom Line:
If you ride in mountains just don't buy it. If you have it as a stock component on your bike sell it on ebay and buy something else. Braking power is terrible poor, even with 203/185 rotors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Damian
a Weekend Warrior
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: January 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Ease of use, not too technical for a novice to hydros. Stop well once worn in properly
Weaknesses:
Annoying vibration has developed in the rear brake that won,t go away.
Bike Setup:
Juicy3 front and rear, XT/Deore groupset, rock shox tora 302 suspension
Bottom Line:
For a cross country rider that does a little bit of extreme stuff these entry level hydros are ideal and they haul me up well (almost threw myself over the front in the first month of use!). I have to admit I was a bit nervous following a read of the other reviews but I've been plesantly surprised and they work great for me although I will step up to Juicy7's if my riding develops into a lot more downhill and extreme freeride. Bottom line, good value and a good introduction to the benifits of hydraulic disc brakes
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
boogievoogie
a Cross Country Rider
from ukrain Date Reviewed: December 3, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
internet
Strengths:
great power, no problems
Weaknesses:
gabarits, gydro line
Similar Products Used:
hayes 9
Bottom Line:
great deal for money, great power, no problems with adjust
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
34witt
a Cross Country Rider
from Osan Korea Date Reviewed: November 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Ones with dirt
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
they try to slow you down
Weaknesses:
very weak stopping power, there is no modulation, leak
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bottom Line:
I didnt like them at first but I gave it a while before I reviewed them to be fair. This is by far the worst brake system that I have ever used. Nothing good to say about them. If you want to stop look go with something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tackhammer
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: November 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
in the woods
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Stop me and my 170 lbs just fine down any hill I've been down.
Weaknesses:
Maybe lack of adjustment? Although I haven't really found a need either.
Similar Products Used:
Tektro mechanicals on my last bike.
Bike Setup:
08 Cannondale Rush 5z
Bottom Line:
I've been using these for about 6 months, they came on my Rush and I really like them. I've got a little over 1,000 miles this year and the brakes have performed very well. In all kinds of weather even a little snow. I'm a trail rider so no, I'm not doing screaming fast downhills, just what you find on the trail and for that they are perfect. I was wary of them and had already planned on upgrading them after reading all the negative reviews but they are fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ggg
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa Date Reviewed: October 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
UT
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bob's Bicycle (compl
Strengths:
Looks good. Compact. Quality build. Works quite well.
Weaknesses:
Maybe could use a bit more jam (power).
Similar Products Used:
Juicy 7s
Bike Setup:
2007 Titus ML complete
Bottom Line:
Came stock on bike. Have not had any issues with alignment etc. They work well and feel good in hand.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
daxiet
a Cross Country Rider
from South Africa Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
None
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Postive braking feel, very quiet and work very well in extremely dusty and muddy conditions.
Weaknesses:
Aligning the brakes can be a very difficult, every time I remove my front wheel I need to redo the processes. Plus after a long ride they may need adjusting.
Similar Products Used:
Haynes Stroker Ryde
Bike Setup:
Scott MC40
Bottom Line:
Good value for money brakes, effective breaking power, I am running 185mm front and 160mm rear rotors. The rear brake lacks stopping power, but is ok. Scott somehow manage to get Juicy 3.5's not sure, but they may not be exactly stock standard Juicy 3's. I wouldn't bother upgrading my Juicy's unless of course they result in me riding off a cliff or smacking a tree :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
seb
a Cross Country Rider
from quebec Date Reviewed: October 5, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
very progressive,strong, cheap
Weaknesses:
non-ajustable, alot of travel
Bike Setup:
giant xtc2 2008
Bottom Line:
nice brake, but i hope more from a hydraulic system
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
davir
a Cross Country Rider
from tulsa ok usa Date Reviewed: October 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
turkey any where
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
none they started out bad and got worse.these are crappy.Dont buy these brakes.juicy 7 or hayes work so much better.
Weaknesses:
inside piston dosnt push the pad cant keep them aligned to save my life. removed them and put on some 2 year old cable discs bb7s with worn out cables as well much better. we shall see what avid does warranty wise'
Similar Products Used:
hayes 9, avid juicy7, avid bb7 even v brakes are less trouble these.Sorry Avid but these suck.
Bottom Line:
do i need to say more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RoboS
a Weekend Warrior
from Bratislava Date Reviewed: September 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
It's a brake
Weaknesses:
But it doesn't stop you. They fade a lot during descent, you have to pump with levers to get at least some little stopping power.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano XT/Deore, Magura
Bike Setup:
Specialized SX Trail
Bottom Line:
Borrowed bike in bike park and at first I've been happy that the bike has Avid brakes. After first braking on FR trail I was very dissapointed. I had to push levers to handlebars to start braking, then after very short time it was not braking at all. Had to pump with levers during downhill (almost impossible) to be able to stop at finish line.
At least I've been faster :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hlugi
a Cross Country Rider
from Rijeka, Croatia Date Reviewed: September 6, 2008
Unreliable, weak but cheap brake is perfect for recreation. And it is good for nothing more than that. If you going to use them for some aggressive XC or AM, in best case you will experience some disappointment. The worst scenario could be like mine… with extreme vibrations and squealing I just couldn’t stop in time. Result injury to me and damage to bike. Don’t play around. Brakes are something that could save your life. And these brakes are not up to the job.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bullman
a Weekend Warrior
from Keystone, IA, United States Date Reviewed: August 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Horsethief Bench
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike when
Strengths:
None that I can think of at this time
Weaknesses:
brakes rub continuously, have to bleed constantly, everything else you can think of for disc brakes that can go wrong has.
Bike Setup:
Specialized XT expert
Bottom Line:
In just one month's time since I had these I had to bleed them. Started to rub constantly on my wheel the very first day I had them. Have to readjust them after every ride, even on easy days. Have been riding in Colorado's expert and novice trails and can say these brakes don't work. I have spent some of my rides trying to fix them in the middle of the ride. I would rather use caliper brakes that are worth $25 than these. If your a rider of any level, please do not spend your money on these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DTL
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ Date Reviewed: July 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Rage Cycles
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Terrible stopping power; brake chatter/vibration; squealing; hydraulic loss
Similar Products Used:
XTs
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575; Fox DHX 5.0; 36 TALAS RC2
Bottom Line:
These are worthless. Came stock on my Yeti, so I gave them a chance. First, it was the brake chatter ... replaced rotor with a Shimano rotor, and that seemed to help. On any significant incline or decline, though, I lose hydraulics and have to pump the levers to get it back ... bled twice by bike shop, but no help. And nothing can cure the terrible stopping power. Replaced with my old XTs ... the difference is incredible. Don't waste your money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pierocapredoni
a Cross Country Rider
from Mendoza, Argentina Date Reviewed: July 22, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rocky trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
included in bike
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Noisy, difficult to tune up, weak rotors.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano`s disc brakes
Bike Setup:
Giant Alliance XTC A1, Shimano XT, Rock Shox Reba 08.
Bottom Line:
I`ve finished changing my brake set up for shimanos, after three months of suffering with these avids. They vibrate alot when you brake and noise is terrible. No solution, changed everithimg, different pads, brands, etc. CRAP.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul murphy
a Cross Country Rider
from United Kingdom Date Reviewed: July 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Follow the Dog
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
Very good at stopping at lower speeds than it does at a higher spped
Weaknesses:
The dot 4 fluid in the system gets far too hot under breaking ** advise to change to dot 5.1 for a better braking system**
Bike Setup:
Rock shox tora front fork, Sram X7 front and rear derailleurs, avid juicy 3 front and rear hydro discs.
Bottom Line:
For the price of the disc, you're not going to get much better for a cheap price, in terms of ride quality.. as soon as the brake gets wet, it gives out a horrible screech which can be heard some distance away.. when you are on fire routes, the brakes are simply awesome!! For somebody who is looking to get into MB, these brakes are a really good firdt choice, but when you decide to venture to bigger, faster hills and single track.... UPGRADE!! these brakes do not cope under severe punishment and need bleeding quite regular to work to there maximum.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
charliesheen
a Weekend Warrior
from temecula, ca Date Reviewed: June 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
big bear
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came stock
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Loses power very quickly on descents, lever fells like a marsh mellow after 1/2 mile of average descent
Similar Products Used:
bunch
Bike Setup:
my bike doesn't have these anymore for sure
Bottom Line:
don't buy these brakes. I have all together lost any faith i had in SRAM products. you are better of sticking a playing card in your spokes, you will stop faster.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
teocalli401
a Cross Country Rider
from CB,CO USA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Sawtooth, MCT, Teo
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Yeti 575 Basic setup
Strengths:
Eventually the bike will stop
Weaknesses:
Terrible stopping power
Similar Products Used:
'02 Deore Hydo- Awsome cheap breaks
Bottom Line:
Broke the breaks in and just wasn't impressed, Bleed the breaks to make sure setup wasn't at error. Breaks were still terrible. Bleed again...no change. breaks would constantly chatter causing suspension to lock during light to medium breaking. Adjusted suspension...samething...chatter=suspension lock. Fade and pumping is obvious during medium to large descents 500-2000'. If your contemplating suicide and really want to know what sh^%y breaks are like...try em out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JamesR
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane, QLD, Australia Date Reviewed: June 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lantana
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Now!
Strengths:
It stops the bike. More sensitive than my old Shimano LX V brakes, but they were V Brakes.
Weaknesses:
Alignment, Stopping Power
Similar Products Used:
Some Hayes Hydraulics, Juicy 5's, SHimano LX V Brakes
Bike Setup:
Juicy 3's on the front, LX v's on the back, Rock Shox Revelations, Mostly XT Setup on 2002 SHogun Team
Bottom Line:
While this is probably an improvement over my old easy to maintain, easy to adjust and working LX V Brakes, I'm not sure i'm convinced. The constant fiddling with the alignment every time the wheel comes on and off is a bit frustrating, and I'm having trouble noticing a significant gain in stopping power.
Add to this that the bike shop must have mounted the rotor off center, so it squeeks like a buckled wheel, and you start to get an annoying system.
These were installed because my new shocks only had disc mounts, and while it's not a step down, it isnt a step up either. Wouldnt recommend to anyone looking for a serious set of brakes, but they do the job they were made for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
squidhunter
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: June 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Demo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Price and looks.
Weaknesses:
Not enough power or modulation.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Shimano
Bike Setup:
08 Heckler
Bottom Line:
These brakes came stock on my Heckler. They will stop the bike, but they just dont inspire much confidence. The lever is soft and travels very close to the bar before getting any decent power out of them. I'll try bleeding them before binning them. Considering that I have 180mm rotors front and rear, I expected much more power. For the price, they are ok, but unless they came on your bike, I'd spend a bit more for something better. These will be the first thing I upgrade on my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal Date Reviewed: May 9, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
These are an inexpensive step into the world of hydraulic disk brakes. No serious issues, very minimal mantainance.
Weaknesses:
No adjusments, stoping power not the best
Similar Products Used:
Juicy 7, Hayes 9, Avid BB7
Bike Setup:
2007 specialized sx trail 1
Bottom Line:
It's no big suprise that these aren't the best brakes. There is room for improvement, but they get the job done. They started losing some of there power about seven months after owning them so I bled them and they now work better than new. I've thought about upgrading but I don't see the point. If you are a serious rider/racer who is looking for the best performance, look higher on the food chain (ie. juicy 7s), but for most people, these hastle free brakes will work just fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Foster
a Racer
from Corvallis, Oregon Date Reviewed: April 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Black Rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Full Cyclyes
Strengths:
Power to cost ratio, weight, sleek looks,
Weaknesses:
Mushy lever action.
Similar Products Used:
Juicy 5, BB5, Hayes Sole, Old school Hayes, Shimanno LX
Best power to cost ratio I have found yet. I would recommend them to anyone. I was unsure is they would provide enough power for freeriding but on the first ride they did great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Juan Raff
a Weekend Warrior
from Jakarta Date Reviewed: April 21, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Shops near Home
Strengths:
Nice design, I love the Black Colour
Weaknesses:
So far None
Similar Products Used:
Hayes 9
Bike Setup:
XCEED
Bottom Line:
This brake need to be set up properly then u got what you want, the lever can reach with fingers and feel soft. Worth for the value with the good Brands
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Poggiali
a Cross Country Rider
from Croatia Date Reviewed: April 21, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
DSG
Strengths:
Great braking power, easy to handle with one finger.
Weaknesses:
Often scratching sound.
Bottom Line:
Great entry level hydraulic brake sistem, if you are an amateur driver, you should bought it ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunnyvale, CA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Wilder Ranch/UCSC
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Cheap
Weaknesses:
Cocked the pistons so they started to drag and there was nothing I could do to fix them! Easy to get to fade with the OE pads. Not fond of the aligment "mechanisms"...don't like relying on friction to keep alignment
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XTR M965s, Avid Mechanicals
Bike Setup:
SC Superlight, Reba Race
Bottom Line:
It's probably mostly my fault regarding the alignment since I must have cocked the pistons when I pushed them back in but that there was noting I could do about it kind of frustrated me. The brakes like to fade and don't inspire much confidence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Lafferty
a Cross Country Rider
from Clayton, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Diablo
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Nice starter brake for mild short hills. Good stopping. Decent feel (not spongy).
Weaknesses:
Difficult to set-up. Even my LBS couldn't get them to be centered and not drag. What's up with all the cone washer baloney? Not good for long steep decents. They overheat easily. They squeel and chatter after a few serious rides.
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes: they are better at long decents! Just upgraded to Formula k24's Awsome brakes!!!
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse Hollowpoint MkII Comp.
Bottom Line:
This brake is probably fine if an average X-country rider. Not so good for those that bomb down steep mountains (nearly downhilling). After a few long steep decents they started squeeling like a injured monkey. Just let off and it would quit until hitting the same condition. It really sucked on night rides when trying to be quiet. Called Avid. Did the things tech support said to do: sand the pads, brake the glze on the rotors, etc. Three rides later, it's back. This time with a howling shutter. Called Avid, basically they said the brake isn't for serious riding. So I went to Formula k24's with 8" rotors. They are awsome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris the man
a Weekend Warrior
from NorCal Date Reviewed: April 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mr. toad
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came on the bike
Strengths:
simply worked, plenty of power, nice firm feel.
Weaknesses:
no reach adjustment, rob the roter sometimes.
Similar Products Used:
Formula Oro 18, Hyers nine. Avid's 7.
Bike Setup:
Titus motolite
Bottom Line:
This is the first item I wanted to upgrade before the new bike purchase, but after the shop owner advice i decided to get it a try. What a pleasant supprise! It doesn't have the 'cushy' lever feel of oro-18 but the stopping power is equally great, the firmer feel gives adequate modulation as well. The roter robbing problem did happen and required some trail adjustment of the wheel QR (instead of the brake itself).
Not for Freeride or downhill, but great for anything else with little price to pay. Give it a try if them came on your bike, or you need a good budget set.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: March 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Glentress/Innerleithen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came fitted to bike
Strengths:
Cheap, easy to set up. Lever feels good and reasonable power when working.
Weaknesses:
Constant power loss, horrific noise when wet. Pistons stick frequently.
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mono M4, Avid Code, Formula ORO, 08 XT.
Bike Setup:
Commencal Supreme DH, 888's.
Bottom Line:
These brakes work great for a few rides after a bleed, then they loose power and the pistons stick, I have now bled them three times and the shop has done them once. I have tried several other sets of 3's and found similar problems. I have also tried several sets of higher spec Avid Juicy brakes and 3's are not as well made and they deffinitely dont work as well. They are probably ok for a light xc bike but have no business being on a Freeride or DH bike. They are however really cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Felix van Oost
a Downhiller
from Hamburg, Germany Date Reviewed: March 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Verbier, Switzerland
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
JODY Cycles
Strengths:
Incredible Braking Power Great Modulation
Weaknesses:
Sometimes Squeal When Cold Or Wet
Bike Setup:
Specialized FSRxc Pro 2008
Bottom Line:
I recieved the SL version of these brakes on my FSRxc Pro, and they came with 203mm (front) and 185mm (rear) rotors. I have used these brakes for light downhilling and XC.
The Avid Juicy 3s provide immense stopping power, and the bike will easily flip over if I pull the brake lever a little too hard. They barely get hot at all after a long XC ride, and I havent't noticed any brake fade. The modulation is also great, and this is what the Juicys are renouned for. The immense power can be very easily controlled.
However, the Juicy 3 SLs squeal when cold or wet, until I use them for a while and get the rotors warm, at which point they do not make any noise at all. The only other slightly negative point is the lack of adjustments with these brakes, but that is what the Juicy 5s and 7s are for, and I really couldn't expect more with a brake of this price range.
Overall, I think these brakes are very nice, and I would recommend them to anyone looking for some nice hydraulic brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jared Werre
a Weekend Warrior
from Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: February 22, 2008
Favorite Trail:
top gun
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Great braking power for its price , looks cool works great with 7" roters.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
firts hydro brake but i have used mx2's
Bike Setup:
07 brodie derelict z1 sport rv, roco air r
Bottom Line:
These brakes are great for a rider lokking to get a sweet deal if he knows how to fix them . Also a good deal for a first hydro brake, they work great for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john carruthers
a
from australia Date Reviewed: February 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Apparently they are cheap, however they came with the bike so that advantage was lost on me. I purchased a reign 1,2006.This is not a standard fitting with this bike.
Weaknesses:
Overall very poor performance. Stopping power inadequate.I have worked on them myself three times and into the mechanics twice in a six month period.Require to be bled after virtually every ride.Do not purchase
Bottom Line:
Buy something else
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: February 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
good brake when working proporly
Weaknesses:
seriously lack stopping power. the oil leaks out of the top cap and now i have no brake power at all!
Similar Products Used:
hope, saint
Bike Setup:
bighit, dhx 5.0, 888rc3
Bottom Line:
these are bottom end disc brakes and are craaaapppp! they have no stopin power.they leak out of the top caps. dont buy these brakes. if they come on your bike when you buy it upgrade them asap!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Downhiller
from Munich Date Reviewed: February 6, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Evil Eye Geisskopf
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Good Feel Cost Modulation
Weaknesses:
None really. Lacks goodies such as reach adj. and contact point, but hell why are there things like Juicy 5's and Juicy 7's ??? But that ain't an argument
Similar Products Used:
Avid Code, Hayes 9 (Hayes Brakes SUCK, remember these words)
These brakes are really good. Before i exchanged them for Codes, they really did their job. The entire Juicy line is brilliant. They have excellent Modulation etc. One can't compare them to Hayes because those just suck. I can tell you that they won't let you down, unless you're a really big guy as the power is not phenominal. but if you're gonna spend money on brakes anyway: get Juicy 5's or 7's for a few extra $$. And one other thing, 99% of the performance of a brake depends on the setting and bleeding. Like my codes had the same power as juicys for a while because they weren't bled properly... but then the power increased by at least 250%^^ Bottom line: good cheap brakes, but look into 5's and 7's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Martin
a Weekend Warrior
from Alton,England Date Reviewed: February 5, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Evans cycles
Strengths:
Cheap and cheerful. Can stop better than mechanicals. Come ready bled
Weaknesses:
Stopping power not as good as more expensive brake systems
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Mechamicals Hayes 9
Bike Setup:
Specialized P.All Mountain
Bottom Line:
Good cheap brakes but for a bit more money you should get Hayes 9
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
keith walker
a Weekend Warrior
from wilmington Date Reviewed: February 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Power Lines
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
They stop well. When set up well they make some noise when wet but I have never had a break that doesn't. The bleed kit is really good.
This review is harsh but the breaks stop well when working right but.....
Weaknesses:
They are impossible to work with. These should be an embarrassment for the company to put out. I have used these and the 5's with similar result. They are great during that magical time when everything is aligned properly but if you look at them funny tap them when putting the wheel back on or do anything to displease them they rub the rotor and rob you of power.
If the rotor makes incidental contact with anything it is knocked out of alignment and since there is not much room to between the rotor and the pad and you can't adjust the you can't adjust the position of the calipers or pads one day you will give your pick your bike up and spin the wheel and it will stop after like three rotations. The air temperature is a factor in how well your breaks work all fluids expand and contract some but it can mean the difference between near perfection and annoying power robing leg burning grinding.
Similar Products Used:
Juicy 3,5,7, Hayes shimano
Bike Setup:
specialized p all mountain
Bottom Line:
Avid has consistently managed to make nice looking stuff that seems cool and like it is a good deal or will work well but turns out to be garbage. These breaks make me wary of all products produced under the Sram umbrella.
They can be perfect, You can just never figure out why.
Although it may be written poorly I took a lot of time to write this because people need to know that this product is a rip off paying more will pay off in time not spent tinkering with the breaks.
I can't give it less then 2 Chilis because they can work great and are cheap. Maybe I just feel bad but these are not worth the pain in the neck.
Don't be cheap and buy them save up and buy something that is good.
Don't accept these on a bike you buy from a shop make them sell you an upgrade at cost.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Carol Stream, IL, USA Date Reviewed: December 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
good value, not too much brake fading, G2 cleansweep rotors
Weaknesses:
these brakes tend to rub after a crash, they heat up fast with the 160mm rotors,
These brakes are perfect for a begining cross country rider. they don't really need too much adjusting. these brakes rub a lot after every single crash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Albertinho
a Cross Country Rider
from Zagreb, Croatia Date Reviewed: December 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Beer, Climb, Beer, Descend, Beer :D
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Stock on Norco Bigfoot 2007
Strengths:
Powerful, good looking and reliable with 185mm front and 160mm rear.
Weaknesses:
A little bit of fading after long downhills.
Similar Products Used:
Magura Julie (a bit weak for me), Formula Oro K18 (on my XC bike, best brake ever!), old v-brakes (good for a commuter bike :)
Bike Setup:
'07 Norco Bigfoot, Rock Shox Pike 426 coil U-turn, Mavic EX729 front rim + DMR Revolver hub, rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
Considering the bike is "entry level" for AM/FR (actually it kicks butt with a Pike fork :), these brakes perform superbly! The fading issue happens only after very long and steep descents. I can upgrade to 203mm rotors front AND back, but it actually doesn't bother me that much to do that yet. Also, no reliability issues in the 2 months I've been having them. They should be good for XC and AM style riding, recommended!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benji Hanson
a Cross Country Rider
from Duluth, MN Date Reviewed: October 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
OEM on Jamis Dakota 29er
Strengths:
Excellent braking power! I haven't had to adjust them since installing a 203mm front rotor about 5 months ago.
Weaknesses:
Like other here, I sometimes experience a little rubbing, but not often. It seems to depend on the temperature. I used to get a little rubbing after removing the front wheel to carry my bike on my car rack. I found that the pistons sometimes close a slight amount after it's been on the car for a long drive. After realizing this, I now stick my multi-tool between the pads to make sure the piston is fully retracted before mounting the wheel. No problems since making this discovery.
Similar Products Used:
Various manufacture mechanical disk brakes, rim brakes.
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakota 29er with OEM Avid Juicy 3 calipers and levers. Upgraded 160mm front rotor to 203mm. BIG different in braking power after the change, especially with 29-inch diameter tires.
Bottom Line:
Great brakes with the occasional tweak needed. I've ridden over 2000 miles this summer alone on these brakes and haven't have any major problems with them. This has included riding through multiple downpours and muddy trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
The Luge, Craigeburn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
They are better than using the soles of your shoes
These brakes seriously lack stopping power. They squeel horribly at times. Bike shop reports that the bleed on them is ok but the power is still not there. They are the bottom end brakes for a reason and if you can find any way to upgrade them you should do it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
willy makit
a Weekend Warrior
from orlando Date Reviewed: October 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anytrail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
I havnt experienced any problems with mine yet, unlike others here. Great stopping power whenever you want it
Weaknesses:
I havnt had any complaints yet other than how they mount....you have to take the grips off to ge the levers off...( dear avid: does an extra bolt for a clamp break the bank or what?)
Similar Products Used:
many over the years
Bike Setup:
Iron Horse Yakuza Ojiki
Bottom Line:
I like them it must be operator error with the other guys who are complaining or shotty mechanics? either way I think they are a great entry level product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Cross Country Rider
from austin, tx, us Date Reviewed: September 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
mea
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
on bike when i bought it
Strengths:
decent braking power, not to bad when wet
Weaknesses:
always always have rubbing problems! constantly have to adjust them even just removing the tire and putting it back on causes problems
Similar Products Used:
hayes
Bike Setup:
marin east peak mostley stock.......
Bottom Line:
they will teach you how to adjust hydraulic brakes in pitch black.............low end model what else can be said
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: September 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Seemed to work well the first 6 rides.
Weaknesses:
Fade after about 4 rides and need bleeding to restore. Tends to rub on one side. Piston sticks. Noisy and shutters on the front brake.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock Trance 2
Bottom Line:
I'm a bit shocked at the poor quality from Avid, but these seem to be complete junk. I've had them worked on 3 times in just 6 months of riding. I'm now being told the pistons need rebuilt. I'm weighing whether to pursue a warranty claim or just throw them in the trash. Their frequent failures have cost me many days of riding over the summer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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