Shimano’s newest and most affordable hydraulic disc brake! Lightweight dual-piston fixed calipers offer impressive stopping power at reasonable weight, and the forged 2-finger levers give you all the braking control you’ll need for any XC adventure. Convenient nylon hydraulic hose is easily cut to fit any frame configuration, and thanks to the mineral oil-based system, the Deore Hydraulic Disc offers top performance in all conditions without the difficulties of dealing with harsher DOT-rated brake fluids. Includes stainless 6” rotor, mounting hardware, and adaptor for international standard disc tabs
Submitted by
cfr
a Weekend Warrior
from portugal Date Reviewed: August 9, 2009
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
M555, fantastic brake, could be more lighter but for the price who cares, they are not xc brakes. a use it for freeride and recently i change rotors to Y2Z 180mm and change the pads and fu... yeah, man they brake, huge diference (shimano brake pads, very rare to find.i bleed the brake one time and change hoses when i bought it because they are and second hand. never have problems, amazing brake
Weaknesses:
sometimes i have to adjust rotors and its hard to find shimano brake pads, they are the best pads but i recently try QUAD brake pads and they work fine.
Bottom Line:
nothing to say
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lampy29
a Racer
from Rochester Date Reviewed: June 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Letchworth
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Towpath - LBS
Strengths:
Great breaking power once pads are broken in
Excellent modulation for the price
Cheap for hydraulic disk brakes
Weaknesses:
Some disk rub after 1 year of use
Heavy, but for this price what do you expect?
Similar Products Used:
Deore Mechanical
Deore V-Brake
Juicy Ultimate
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Tassajara
Bottom Line:
The Shimano Deore Hydros are excellent for XC where weight isn't an issue (or you don't have the money to go lighter...) they work well in winter below freezing, mud, and rain. Paired with the Deore levers they have excellent modulation if they're set up right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Downhiller
from Aberystwyth (Wales) Date Reviewed: May 19, 2009
Favorite Trail:
UK Bike Park / Brechfa
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Cycle
Strengths:
bombproof, bleeding is almost idiot-proof, cheap compared to other products, very strong, nice modulation. No noise, even on the wettest and gunk-covered trails. Pads last ages (mine are only worn by 1/3rd and they've been ridden every weekend since I got them), and I'm a pad killer
Weaknesses:
Screws for the reservoir are a bit weak, but that's it.
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes, Demoed Formulas
Bike Setup:
Specialized Hardrock, 2004 Drop off Comps, Conti Verticals, standard issue Spesh kit, V8 pedals, SRAM drive train (X5 rear, x7 shifter and Acera mech front)
Bottom Line:
These work nicely for DH, and even for budget competition one of these out back is probably OK with a decent sized rotor(though the LX is probably better for that). They are very good for XC and no problems there at all.
I run 160mm F+R, and the only problem is an absence of power on DH out front which can be corrected with a 180mm rotor (mind you, I'm the only person I know of who runs 160mm on the local DH trail).
I have demoed Formulas on a Commencal supreme with 180mm rotors. In all honesty the difference in stopping power was only marginal. Unless you are a full on racer then these will do the job very well, though if you can afford it the XT or XTR ones are much nicer. Make sure you get the right rotor size rather than anything else, this is what matters most. You will see more benefit sticking a larger rotor on these brakes than replacing them with XT or XTR or anything else.
These brakes are cheap and brilliant. I will buy one for the rear of my new DH bike, and the only reason I'm not getting one for the front is 'cos my mate is throwing in a Hope E4 with the rig I'm buying off him. A truly outstanding brake.
Note: these brakes are actually very forgiving despite their power so would make ideal brakes for riders with a lack of confidence, as whilst they will stop you easily and quickly, with a 160mm rotor it takes real effort to go over the bars, even on steep sections.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
smonroe100
a Cross Country Rider
from Auburn CA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Dirt
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Auburn Bike Works
Strengths:
They stop the bike with out any problems... what more could you ask for. But if you do want more; modulation, smooth operation, very little maintenance required, simplicity (ie no crazy adjustments or dials that clutter up the bars), and in the end they stop the bike just as well as most other brakes I have tried.
Weaknesses:
Pads can be difficult to find now because they are a few design generations old. But just have your LBS order you several sets.
Bike Setup:
Steel SS
Bottom Line:
Bled these brakes when I installed them 4+ years ago, and recently bled them again when I put them on a different bike and had to shorten the hose. These brakes are hassle free and work better than some of the more complicated systems on the market IMHO. If you want a simple set up or can get these for a deal jump on them... they work great
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Oracle7775
a Weekend Warrior
from Saukville, Wisconsin Date Reviewed: November 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
John Muir
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Ebay/Rocky Mtn Cyclr
Strengths:
Reviewing the Deore M535 system.
Great system at a great price, came pre-bled, good stopping power right out of the box and getting better with each ride, good modulation, solid construction, no noise when mated with my Gator rotors (even when wet).
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Avid V brakes, Avid BB7s, Shimano XTR, Avid Juicy
Bike Setup:
2004 Klein Palomino V with Gator Serrated rotors
Bottom Line:
Terrific brakes for the price. I like them better than the Avid Mech's. I never thought I'd be able to get a good set of hydro brakes for under $100, but these definitely fit the bill for XC riding. We don't have any 1000 foot downhills in Wisconsin, so I can't tell you how they'd perform on the Front Range, but they definitely do the job for me. They came fully assembled and pre-bled, so it was just bolt em up and go. No mess, no fuss, no need to spend an hour tweaking and adjusting, as I've had to do with the Avid hydros. I don't know how they work with other rotors, but they are terrific with my Gator serrated rotors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yoopee
a Downhiller
from Israel Date Reviewed: November 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
LBS and ChainReactio
Strengths:
powerful, accurate and plenty of modulation. no fuss, no mainenance, too simple to fail.
Weaknesses:
no flashy anodized bits.
Similar Products Used:
jucies, maguras.
Bike Setup:
MC san andreas 6" DS and NS society chromo HT.
Bottom Line:
i've had these on my bike(s) for 6 years of single what is best described as agressive all-mountain. i think there are very few riders out there who actually NEED anything else. some may WANT other brakes and i can't argue with them, but these deliver all the power i ever needed and never required anything beyond pad replacement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mongoose721
a Weekend Warrior
from Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: July 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge Park, PinchotPark
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Awesome power, even with 6 inch rotors, these will slow you down very quickly.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Stock Promax mechanical brakes, shimano v brakes.
Bike Setup:
Mongoose xr comp with 130mm Marzocchi z1 wedge fork, fox rear shock, Bontrager seat, Carbon bars, Shimano Deore hydraulic brakes.
Bottom Line:
Awesome value, great performance. These broke in fast and work flawless. Perfect upgrade from mechanical disc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
baggio
a Weekend Warrior
from indonesia Date Reviewed: June 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
my back yard
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
yogyakarta
Strengths:
I have 525, They may never wear out! I have never changed the fluid, just the pads.
comfort, smooth and more handling
Weaknesses:
little noisy when wet
Bike Setup:
khs alite 3000
Bottom Line:
more comfort, more control
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
russ
a Cross Country Rider
from Brevard, NC Date Reviewed: November 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
great modulation, reliability
Weaknesses:
nothing, a little weak if used on rigs over 35lbs
Similar Products Used:
avid mechanical, juicy 5, 7
Bike Setup:
blur 4x
Bottom Line:
Very, very reliable. Great modulation under all conditions. For the money, I don't think there is a better brake on the market. I like my Deore's better than my juicy 7's on my back up bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kris
a Weekend Warrior
from Belgium Date Reviewed: October 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Holsbeek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came on bike
Strengths:
very good brake power
Weaknesses:
Front (shimano) pads always totally worn after 50 to 100km. Anyone else have this problem? I'm pretty tired buying new pads every 50km. Any other brands that are more resistant?
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2005 Trek Fuel 80
Bottom Line:
Superb braking power, pads really suck!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Halifax,NS,Canada Date Reviewed: June 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Anything offroad
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came on bike
Strengths:
Awsome stopping power good for the price
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
V-brakes mostly,Hayes Mech disc
Bike Setup:
2003 cannondale F600 with lefty max 140mm
Bottom Line:
Ive been biking for years now and im fairly new to the disc brake thing. ive always used V-brakes which are good enough for most bikes.but i must say that these brakes are excellent,with strong stopping power even for me (6'1 230lbs).They are a great brake system for the money just as good as higher priced ones in my opinion.highly recommend them to anyone whos just getting into biking and wants a good quality brake.Kudos to Shimano for another great product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew H
a Weekend Warrior
from Sunshine Coast, Australia. Date Reviewed: June 27, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Gap Creek/Mapleton
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
farkin
Strengths:
Excellent power and modulation. Reassuring and confidence inspiting.
Weaknesses:
Stock rotors look rather dull.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes So1e, Tektro Auriga, Juicy 7.
Bike Setup:
2007 Giant Alias with Marzocchi EXR Pro 120mm, Deore brake, Wellgo MG1 pedals... Rest stock.
Bottom Line:
Based on first impressions these brakes are fantastic.
I would hazzard guess that the power increase from my old Hayes So1es to be a factor of three. I can now stop with a single finger, instead of three fingers.
Worth every penny, based on initial impressions.
However, it would have been nice if the rotors looked a little less industrial, but you can't win them all. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sasa
a Weekend Warrior
from Croatia Date Reviewed: June 7, 2007
Comparing to Hayes Sole which came on the bike, these Shimano's are much more modulative, and give me less headache when i go riding some steeps. Regarding the price i payed, i'm completely satisfied for now. Will see how they perform after few moths, but for now - RECOMENDATION!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DJ Leonid
a Cross Country Rider
from Riga,Latvija Date Reviewed: April 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All..
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
from a guy
Strengths:
Not expensive, looks very nice
Weaknesses:
not yet
Similar Products Used:
only v-brakes(cheap one's)
Bike Setup:
Kalkhoff with 28" wheels...Deore,deore LX drive train,deore M535 brakes(Fr.180mm,Rr.160mm) and other alloy stuff..
Bottom Line:
Nice choise for the price,it combines looks and quality! But must say that I dont realy see the difference in power between my expirience with cheap v's and this disc's setup,only smoothnes in brake feel,I could stop with v's in any time, and any place, as fast as with Deores.. I think V-brakes are very good for bikes and those hydro-disc stuff is nice,but not very needed on that kind of light machine..thats my way of looking on things,if you have fingers,you will stop with v's as fast as with disc's thats a fact!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Reno,NV,USA Date Reviewed: April 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came w/ bike
Strengths:
cheap fair modulation durable
Weaknesses:
heavy brake fade, doesnt last more than 1 ride on a fast flowy singletrack, and also, this bake requires constant maitnence for performance.
Bike Setup:
mongoose teocali
Bottom Line:
good starter brake, upgrade them as soon as your riding skillz improve, cuz these things dont break.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie McDonald
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotland Date Reviewed: February 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ae
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Wiggle
Strengths:
M535 Great little product. Great value for money. Easy to fit and adjust, plenty of feel and power, pads ware well now and the weight isn't bad. Good strong rotors.
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
160mm front and back....great product. Plenty of feel and power and pads last well with these. Fitting them is so simple, the same with adjustments ...takes seconds, just like it should be!! and the quality is pretty good. I am surprised at the consistent performance and the power. Can't be beaten on price either.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don One
a Weekend Warrior
from U.K Date Reviewed: February 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Marin rail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Merlin Cycles
Strengths:
Solid build quality and nice finish. No fancy whistles and bells just totally functional. Very good modulation and power. Cheap and so are the replacement pads. Easy to fit and to adjust.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT, Hope Mono Mini, M4, Formula and Hayes.
Bottom Line:
Really am impressed by this budget brake the Deore M 535. It gives great modulation along side very good power. The ease of fitting and adjustment, the great price, the cheap replacement pads, the simplicity of design and really good quality make this a superb braking system. For years I have used Hope brakes, and whilst good, they require constant maintenance. The Deore seem to just work without needing anything to be done to them and are such great value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Melb, Aus Date Reviewed: February 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
great stopping power, excellent modulation, easily available parts (it is shimano!)
Weaknesses:
no critiques
Similar Products Used:
hayes mx-3, various v and rim calipers including high end campy road brakes..
Bike Setup:
trek 6700 07 model
Bottom Line:
This is for the deore Lx M580 setup. Stock fitment on bike so can't comment re value. However:
These are some awesome hydraulics. Compared to the hayes mech setup, they are far superior. The hayes have OK stopping power, but the application of brakes is far more on/off. The Lx hydros are stronger and have far better modulation to keep you from locking a wheel on a steep downhill descent. Here in Oz parts are easily available and well priced. I like the alloy hardware (incl levers and reservoir)and overall they are quite superb. One downer, the rear rotor clangs slightly on the pads, may be slightly warped, but could be simple damage done before receiving the bike. not an issue...
These aren't downhill brakes, but i did go on the competition trails and fade was not an issue, so they really perform very well and punch above their weight. well done shimano (and i'm a campy roadie man!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Melb, Aus Date Reviewed: February 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
easy clip in and out, adjustable tension, durable, good mud shedding.
Weaknesses:
really can't think of one
Similar Products Used:
i'm a roadie so i've campag centaur road pedals as well.
Bike Setup:
stock trek 6700 07
Bottom Line:
these are very easy to use... i have the silver ones which is good b/c when u bash them into rocks the damage isn't obvious.
These really are ideal, durable metal cleats, durable pedals, CHEAP, and easy to clip in and out of (never had a problem in many panic dismounts)... coming from firmer sprung single sided road pedals, these are a dream ! (altho i've never had a problem with clipless period) will update if bearing life is short or other problems, but at this price point they are very good, and something i could deal with. (about 1/4 of the price of campg centaurs at the LBS and they have exposed plastic cleats !!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nick
a
from australia Date Reviewed: January 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came on my bike
Strengths:
price,power,light,have never squeaked and don't think they will very easy to change pads.
Weaknesses:
they could look a bit better but who really cares if they work great.
Similar Products Used:
just v brakes
Bike Setup:
mongoose asmasa elite with marzocchi all mountain 1, sun sos rims with kenda nevigal tyres with more planned upgrades.
Bottom Line:
you'll never find a better disk system better than these for the price. And will work even better with 8inch rotors so if you want a Hydraulic brake system and dont want to spend alot buy em!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jet
a
from Seattle,CA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Shimano M535... O.K.weight, good performance, easy to set-up and easy to adjust. Great price plenty of power and modulation, Reliable with cheap pad replacements. Uses mineral instead of that foul D.O.T 5
Weaknesses:
Only come in 160mm rotors.
Bottom Line:
Shimano M535... I can recommend these to anyone. Great price and superb performance...great modulation. Plenty of power even from 160mm rotors. More power than Hope Mono Mini 160's! Pads are cheap and the whole set up comes with everything you require so no hidden costs. So easy to set up and to adjust.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
toan sins
a Weekend Warrior
from bandung, indonesia Date Reviewed: December 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Strengths:
setup : front 8" rear 6" good, awe breaking for the 8", average in 6" but better than any mechanical disc i've tried, good looking( IKEA's design??) price
Weaknesses:
little bit noisy when i when i thru the fast down gravel road, THats all....
Similar Products Used:
hmx1 mechanical, avid bb5(crap!!!), shi m475. db2 boar, mag julie.
Bike Setup:
unites patrol frame, deore group set with hone crank, truvativ seatpostbarstem, mavic 117 rims.
Bottom Line:
must buy hyd brake for the low budget rider... higly recomended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Camel
a Weekend Warrior
from FL, CA Date Reviewed: November 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
IC Bikes
Strengths:
Stops you quick and easy. Super durable.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Worked at bikeshop and tried many bikes.
Bike Setup:
Freeride/All Mountain
Bottom Line:
They may never wear out! I have never changed the fluid, just the pads. After 4 years and 3 years of every kind of riding, including downhilling, they work as good as they did brand new. I can't believe the hoses have held up this long.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danny Andrews
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn. NY. Date Reviewed: November 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Lbs
Strengths:
Real value for money brakes. Positive and strong braking power with plenty of feel right up to the bite point. So easy to set up and adjust. Not heavy at all but well built. The 160mm system is more powerful than many 180mm ones. Strong rotors too.
Weaknesses:
They only do a 160 mm disc but for me and most people that will be plenty enough.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Magura and the whole Hope range.
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kikapu....modified.
Bottom Line:
Really good set of brakes. Well made and the design makes setting up and adjustment so easy. Very good feel right up to the bite point and these have plenty of grunt. They punch well above their weight. Strong rotors too. Good pads too and they bed in fast. What else can I say...these are a real winner. You got to have very good reasons not to try these unless you are a full on downhiller.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Danny Andrews
a Weekend Warrior
from Brooklyn. NY. Date Reviewed: November 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Lbs
Strengths:
Real value for money brakes. Positive and strong braking power with plenty of feel right up to the bite point. So easy to set up and adjust. Not heavy at all but well built. The 160mm system is more powerful than many 180mm ones. Strong rotors too.
Weaknesses:
They only do a 160 mm disc but for me and most people that will be plenty enough.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, Magura and the whole Hope range.
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kikapu....modified.
Bottom Line:
Really good set of brakes. Well made and the design makes setting up and adjustment so easy. Very good feel right up to the bite point and these have plenty of grunt. They punch well above their weight. Strong rotors too. Good pads too and they bed in fast. What else can I say...these are a real winner. You got to have very good reasons not to try these unless you are a full on downhiller.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane, Australia Date Reviewed: November 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Chocolate Buddha
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
For M525 Deore: - Good braking power - Brakes just as well in wet as it does in the dry - No self leaks since i got it
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Avid Juicy 5, Avid Juicy Carbon
Bike Setup:
2006 Trek 6500 stock with following mods: Amoeba Scud Carbon Bar, Pro XLT Race Stem, DT Swiss 4.1d Rims (XT hubs), FSA Carbon Pro Seatpost, Exustar PM25 Pedals, M760 XT Cassette
Bottom Line:
Came stock on my Trek but these brakes are a very good set of brakes.
Great stopping power and perform very well in the wet. These brakes have had no mechanical problems besides from a stack i had that smashed the oil cap off.
Braking difference/response compared to the Juicy 5 and Carbon's were negligible. I couldn't tell the difference.
Apparently they are cheap too, so the Deore Hydro Disc's probably are a very good buy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Hastings
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: November 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
M535 Brakes. Strong braking and low weight. Easy to set-up and dependable. Uses standard mineral oil. Fantastically good price.
Weaknesses:
Only comes in 160mm size.
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini, Mono Mini and M4, Magura Julie, Formula.
Bike Setup:
Specialized 2001 FSR.
Bottom Line:
M535 Brakes. Fantastic brakes for the money. Up to now Hope were my favourites but these are well my favourites now! Great price, plus really easy to set-up and dead easy to adjust. Plenty of power.. in fact more than my Hope Mini's, plus very good modulation. Replacement pads are cheap and they are the same pads as XT and XTR! I have had my reservations about some things that Shimano have done in the past but these M535's are superb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Hastings
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: November 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
M535 Brakes. Strong braking and low weight. Easy to set-up and dependable. Uses standard mineral oil. Fantastically good price.
Weaknesses:
Only comes in 160mm size.
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini, Mono Mini and M4, Magura Julie, Formula.
Bike Setup:
Specialized 2001 FSR.
Bottom Line:
M535 Brakes. Fantastic brakes for the money. Up to now Hope were my favourites but these are well my favourites now! Great price, plus really easy to set-up and dead easy to adjust. Plenty of power.. in fact more than my Hope Mini's, plus very good modulation. Replacement pads are cheap and they are the same pads as XT and XTR! I have had my reservations about some things that Shimano have done in the past but these M535's are superb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Renato Piereck
a Cross Country Rider
from Pyeongtaek, South Korea Date Reviewed: October 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Brown Mountain, Songtan
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Price! Strong braking, all weather performance, impervious to extreme temperatures, no leaks in 2 years.
Shimano Deore brakes are excellent for the price! $100 brand new or cheaper on eBay. I paid $40 for the front brakes and $45 for the rear on eBay. Installation was a breeze and in the two years I've used them they have never leaked.
I change my fluid once a year, but I wonder if I actually need it, as the fluid comes out clean and free of water.
I've never done any long downhill runs to test the brake fade, but during cross country riding fade is nonexistent. These brakes stop strong regardless of weather. I've used during the Korean summer (very hot and humid) and winter (very cold and dry), on the road and off road and it always delivers.
Some friends of mine have had problems with Avid hydraulic brakes locking up during the cold winter but Shimano's never does that.
I recommend these brakes to anyone who's not a weight weenie or a racer. For cross country, all weather riding these are an excellent choice!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Antti
a Cross Country Rider
from Helsinki, Finland Date Reviewed: October 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Keskuspuisto, Central Park, Helsinki
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Powerful and easily controllable. Very good feel.
Weaknesses:
Dirt gets caught between the pads and the rotor, causing squealing and friction. The finish, especially on the rotor, is not very nice.
Similar Products Used:
Only all types of v-brakes, cantilevers, and road bike brake systems.
Bike Setup:
No Saint scandium frame, Mavic x-max wheels, Shimano LX/sram x.9, Ritchey cockpit+saddle, FSA carbon seatpost, Deore disc brakes, Marzocchi mx comp air.
Bottom Line:
The feeling of the brakes is excellent, and stopping power is well enough for a relatively big bloke (85 kg's, appr. 180lbs). I am a little worried about the mud effect described in the weaknesses -section. Overall, nice brakes, however.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin McMahon
a Racer
from Calgary, Canada Date Reviewed: October 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
one without bears and people
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
OEM
Strengths:
This is actually a review for the LX Hydraulic Disc brakes, not the Deore. (LX is unlisted)
Hydraulic disc brakes...that's about it. They are cheap too, at only $75/wheel, that's pretty darn good.
Weaknesses:
Lots...I hate these brakes with a passion. First, they are a weak OEM spec for a $3000 race bike.. They are heavy brakes, have really BAD modulation and power for a hydraulic setup, and my damn front caliper has rubbed the disc since day one. It never lines up properly and always rubs, and never returns properly. I had it tuned up but nothing changed.
Similar Products Used:
I used to be a V-brake hardtail man, but welcomed myself to the 21st century with discs and FS cause that's what I thought racers are supposed to ride now. (Hype works I guess)...I still love my hardtail with V's though
Bike Setup:
2005 Rocky Mountain Element 50
Bottom Line:
They are crappy for anyone that is a serious rider. I'm in the process of investigating lighter, better alternatives to these crap brakes. Magura Marta SL's are over 100g lighter for each wheel, AND have WAY better performance. But, they probably aren't compatible with my LX integrated shifter/brake levers... I might get the XTR 6 bolt rotor and caliper instead. The performance of these brakes is just not good. Heavy, incessently bad alignment, squeaky.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hamish McDougal
a Weekend Warrior
from Aberdeen, Scotland Date Reviewed: September 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Glentress
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Deore535. Excellent power and feel. Immediate to install and adjust. Reliable and nicely finiched. Much more powerful than any other 160mm brake that I have used. Very good price giving REAL value for money. This is a proper 21st Century Disc Brake.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini - Mono - M4, Magura Julie, Hayes Sole, Shimano XT.
Bike Setup:
Spec FSR much modified.
Bottom Line:
Deore535. Excellent set of brakes. Excellent power and feel. Immediate to install and adjust. Reliable and nicely finiched. Much more powerful than any other 160mm brake that I have used. Very good price giving REAL value for money. Considerably better than the over-rated Hope stuff. This is a proper 21st Century Disc Brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
muzza
a Weekend Warrior
from Busharagua Date Reviewed: September 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Waco to Crawford Nutball Run
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
works really good. why pay more?
Weaknesses:
Not made in dear old Busharagua, may God bless us and our 51st state...Great Britain....or is it Grenada? One of those island paradises anyhow.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX
Bike Setup:
Stock D Santa Cruz Superlight. Brakes came with.
Bottom Line:
Was skeptical at first. They looked kind of cheap. Have grown to love their reliability and user friendliness. Virtually no break in period. Differences in modulation between these and the Hayes HFX are almost nil to my experience. And they're inexpensive! In 3 years they'll come shrink-wrapped for $19.95...proving that evolution is at work in the world.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a Cross Country Rider
from Cape Town Date Reviewed: September 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Cycle Maintenance Center
Strengths:
Great braking power, good looking, easy to bleed
Weaknesses:
Sqeal like a pig in distress when wet!
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche Expert, pretty standard except for Marzocchi MX Comp ETA and Braided brake hoses
Bottom Line:
I am 6'6" and weigh 120kgs, I thought i would have to upgrade to bigger discs but after the first ride realised that would definately not be necessary! I normally always use only 1 finger when braking and never have to worry about not stopping on time :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian Moran
a Cross Country Rider
from U.K Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
New Grizedale Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Evans
Strengths:
M535. Well designed and well made piece of kit. Very straight forward to set up and to adjust by using to alen key bolts (no shims). Good stock pads that are interchangeable with the XT ones. Cheap!
Weaknesses:
Only do 160mm rotors....but that is enough.
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini, Hope Mono and M4, Magura Julie and Hayes Sole.
Bike Setup:
Marin East Peak 2002.
Bottom Line:
This is the Deore M535 Brakes that I am revueing. They are very good indeed. Strong braking delivery with good modulation, ease of setting up and adjustment just add to the package. Nicely finished and reliable. No mess with shims or DOT Hydraulic brake fluid. And they are so cheap for such a great quality level. The quality is not compromised by the low price making these exceptional value for money in every way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Really strong braking, lots of modulation, good lever feel. My 555 model is probably lighter than the 525
Weaknesses:
Pads occasionally drag, requiring a quick tap on the lever. I have the 555 model so initial set up is finicky.
Similar Products Used:
Xt V brakes, freind's hayes, cantis
Bike Setup:
21 inch Concorde Pro Comp with custom disc mount. Marzocchi Atom Race, Race Face cranks, XTR 8 speed cogs and derailleurs, Singletracks on Formula hubs, Gripshift 800, Profile carbon bars, Avocet O2 Ti saddle, Br 555 hydros, Bontrager post, Tank II headset.
Bottom Line:
Great brakes, I'd never go back to rim brakes that's for sure. I ride 3 or 4 hours a week and the pads are holding up really well. My only complaint is the occasional pad drag I mentioned. This could just be dirt, and an easily fixed maintenance issue for the winter. I would definitely buy these again, especially from Ebay/Pink Bike (my whole bike cost me about 1500, and more than 75% of it is brand new old stock).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Albert, AB, Canada Date Reviewed: August 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
200.0CDN
Strengths:
Good braking power, mineral oil.
Weaknesses:
Havn't found any yet
Similar Products Used:
Hayes Comp
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant AC2, Sherman Flick fork, Rockshox rear shock, xt hubs, hayes comp front brake 8' rotor, deore rear brake w/8inch rotor from the old Hayes brake.
Bottom Line:
I switched out the brake when I my old Hayes Comp rear brake gave out. I kept the adaptor and 8' rotor from the old brake, and had the deore brake installed. Works great. The hayes always felt soft, and I always had to pull hard with 2 fingers to get enough power. With the new brake, I'm down to one finger, and riding faster because I'm more confident in my breaking ability. I paid $200 installed at the bike shop in Fernie BC, and spent two days riding Fernie bike park, and was totally impressed with brakes stopping power. I guess I'll find out later whether or not it's easy to service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stew W
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchetser Date Reviewed: August 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Powerful and very good feel. Reliable and well built, great design that is a easy to set up. Better pads than the 525. Cheap.
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
This review is for the new M535 brakes. They are even better than the M525's... with pads that are the same as the new XT ones. These brakes have the power and feel that you expect from expensive poodle-parlour boutique ones like Hope but without the hassle or price tag. Well made and totally adjustable without needing to use any shimming. Set up takes no time and the same for adjustments. I am seriously impressed and the price is amazing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Sturger
a Weekend Warrior
from Oldham Lancs, U.K Date Reviewed: July 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Coed-y-brenin
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Deore M535 Brakes Strong - positive - consistent brake power with very good modulation. Cheap and lite, very easy to install and maintain/edjust. Cheap brake pads.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini, Hope Mono Mini, Hope Mono M4
Bike Setup:
Marin Mount Vision
Bottom Line:
After 6 years or more, of only using Hope brakes (see Similar Products Used), I am astounded at the power, quality and modulation of these M535 brakes! (160mm Deore = 180mm Hope Mini in power) The ease of set up and adjustment make Hope look primitive and the cost is so much less than I have paid for Hope. And the farting arounding that I have continually to do in order to maintain my Hope's in good working order too! Don't misunderstand me....I am not getting at Hope.....I am just amazed that I can but cheap brakes on my bike, that are easier to install, adjust and maintain than Hope whilst (importantly) retaining the power and modulation that I thought only Hope had. Excellent performance and value for momey! Quite simply I know who I will be buying from in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ali shiach
a Weekend Warrior
from hitchin Date Reviewed: April 7, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great power, very responsive - constant 1 finger braking, disc don't warp, pads last long,good modulation, no loss of power, cheap.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
hope m4
Bike Setup:
cove sanchez, dj3s, raceface cranks, azonic stem, deity bar, combats on aircorps.
Bottom Line:
This brake works awesome and wont hurt your wallet. Way better than hope just get a bumped up price cos there british. No loss of power - a very reliable, affordable, low maintenance brake system. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jer
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA USA Date Reviewed: March 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Hmmm . . . .
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Shimano Deore M555
1 - Strong 2 - Cheap 3 - Simple set up
Weaknesses:
1 - Took a while to break in 2 - Have ridden stronger (but more on/off) brakes
Similar Products Used:
Magura Julie, Deore XT, avid Mechs
Bike Setup:
Planet X, rynolites w/ XT hubs, Z1 dropoff, various old parts from other bike
Bottom Line:
I bought these since they were less expensive than BB7's, and have gotten good reviews on this site. I expected them to be a pain to break in, and they were. The rear was fine, but the front took a while. At first it was IMPOSSIBLE to lock up, two fingers, or three. After a couple weeks, I cleaned rotors and pads with alcohol, and after another break in, they are very very close to my friends XT's. I'm very happy with them, although now that they have been cleaned, they have started to get a little noisy. I have avid mechs on my XC bike, which I like as well, but these are definately stronger and easier to use (for less money) I would definately buy these brakes again, and reccomend them to a friend for most types of riding, maybe not super for extreme riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Coby Melo
a Weekend Warrior
from San Juan, Philippines Date Reviewed: March 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Ross, Cartimar
Strengths:
very affordable, low maintenance, strong stopping power
Weaknesses:
bit grabby
Similar Products Used:
avid mechs
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper, raceface, truvativ/sram x7 drivetrain, sun ringle wheels, thudbuster
Bottom Line:
These brakes came assembled and prebled. Just slapped em on the bike and ran to the nearest trail. I had to use some washers to properly mount them without rubbing. But since then, no worries.
Stopping power was incredible. Was a bit grabby though, so I had to modulate smoothly. But all my buddies were amazed at the stopping power. DEfinitely a notch above the avid mechs I've had. More amazing is the fact that I've had no need to bleed them in more than a year and three months. Thats a load better than some avid juicys of some riders I know, who rebleed every few months. In fact, I bought a bleed kit together with the brakes. I haven't even opened the bleed kit yet. My fingers are crossed.
I Just changed the pads some time ago, when I accidentally got some oil on them. The pads wear faster than usual, but they're cheap and widely available. So thats ok with me. I just carry spare pads on really long epics. The rotors are a bit roughly finished, so you may have to sand them a bit. But a minor gripe really.
For the price, and the reliability, so far, five hot chilies all the way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay
a Racer
from Pine City, N.Y. Date Reviewed: February 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Great stopping power and I love the fact that a low level shimano brake works this well.
Weaknesses:
The pads do wear out rather fast. I tried both the metallic and resin and they both wear quick
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
04 Specialized epic comp
Bottom Line:
These brakes came stock on my epic and I have not had any trouble except pad wear. I have done a 100 mile race on these gals and they performed just fine. They were rebled when I added xt dual control levers and they have not been touched since 1000+ miles! How's that for reliability
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Roberts
a Cross Country Rider
from Adelaide, Australia Date Reviewed: February 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Shepards Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bought with bike (Specialized Epic)
Strengths:
These brakes rock! I have used Hayes HFX9's before (DH version) and I believe that these stop just as well. The feel of the brake isn't comparable to anything else I have used.
Weaknesses:
None at all. The rotor has stayed tight, no fluid leaking or anything!
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX 9
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic Disc (2003)
Bottom Line:
For the money I would rate these higher than any of the other shimano brakes. I just need to get some centre lock rotors for my new wheelset!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon Sillito
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester, UK Date Reviewed: December 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Marin Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
E-Bay/Chain Reaction
Strengths:
Easy set up (for hydraulics), cheap, good modulation, good power, reliable (so far).
Weaknesses:
Shimano gear is hard to find, one of the levers rattles a bit, disc rub is pretty hard to eliminate.
Similar Products Used:
Avid V brakes, Shimano Mechanical.
Bike Setup:
2001 Schwinn Rocket 88, Black Eye wheels, Conti Vertical tyres, LX drivetrain, MZ Z4 Air forks, RockShox Deluxe shock, Raceface Air Alloy bars, 24Seven short Stem, Ride Tuned stuff, Yeti lock on grips (awesome!).
Bottom Line:
Managed to get hold of these babies reasonably cheap online. Was an arse on trying to get the rear brake sorted, as my frame was parallel mount, but the A2Z-PMR adapter sorted that out. They were ready bled too, which is a big bonus. My mate is running Hope mono brakes, and they have proved un-reliable and the cables are easily broken at the lever end. Also, I would say mine are much more powerful, but I upgraded to BBB/Hope Wave 180mm rotors straight away front and back and spent a while setting them up, so I don't know if that figures. My other mate I ride with has last years Deore Hydro brakes, and he's never had any problems. Reading some of the above reviews about V-Brakes being better, I used Avid V brakes before, and these are MUCH MUCH better in every way. I think the modulation is very good too, and I now only have one finger on the lever, which is a major plus when I go freeriding, esp on my 100mm travel bike. Top product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J.M.
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA Date Reviewed: December 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Palmer Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Stock
Strengths:
Great Value. Super performance.
Weaknesses:
I am new to hydraulic and adjustment/maint is a little confusing (probably operator error).
Similar Products Used:
Avid and XT v-brakes. First experience with disks.
Bike Setup:
XC Full-suspension, 4 inch travel. XT/LX mix.
Bottom Line:
Outstanding stopping power. Nice ergonomics. Good value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alastair rimmer
a
from england Date Reviewed: October 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
ellis briggs
Strengths:
very good and very powerful
Weaknesses:
goes through pads very quickly i went though the first set in 3 weeks! so i put in sintered pads which last a lot longer
Similar Products Used:
hayes
Bike Setup:
specialized rockhopper disc
Bottom Line:
very good value
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jii
a Downhiller
from Helsinki, Finland Date Reviewed: September 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kalpalinna Bike Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$150.00
Strengths:
Cheap, easy to install, nearly maintenance free, uses mineral oil, post-mount calipers and awesome stopping power!
Weaknesses:
Not very bling (duh?), stock pads wear out fast (Get some EBC Sintered pads!), rotors are not the best (I use 8" Hayes rotors)
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX-9, Hope M4, Juicies (All demoed only)
Bike Setup:
2004 Ells Joker and all that..
Bottom Line:
These are amazing brakes (BR-M525)! They stop my lardy (210 lbs) ass on a dime. This summer I did 1,5 hr downhill runs without any brake fade whatsoever..Lots of people have tried my brakes and have been amazed with the power and feel of them. Only brake close IMO would be the Juicy 5:s( 7:s too pricey), and the only ones I could imagine upgrading to. I'll be using these 'til they die on me. Been using my brakes tricked out with Dangerboy levers and Hayes 8" rotors..These puppies are the only thing Shimano left on my bike and these are for keeps!
So what if they are low/middle end graded if they work better than triple-the-price-brakes? Hope M4:s don't seem to have the same amount of stopping power, Hayes do have unbelievable power, but I don't like the on/off feel or the industrial look, Juicies are sweet for sure and IMO have a similar feel to them as the Deores. Did I mention they're very easy to bleed, if you have to? And spare hoses cost next to nothing?
What are you waiting for, get them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Milo L
a Weekend Warrior
from Parts Unknown Date Reviewed: July 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Ho Chi Min Trail Whistler Bike Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Glacier shop
Strengths:
Cheap and they work. They have better modulation than Hayes in my opinion, not to mention cheaper parts when they break...Because seriously, all parts break or wear down sooner or later. You can diss parts all you want, but it comes down to riding style and abuse. I have abused these brakes and have never had a problem.
Weaknesses:
Pads see a tad soft - which is cool at first, but they do wear down quick..then again i am a big dude....... 8 inch rotors would have been nice, and you can order 8 inch kits off Ebay... But again it's up to your riding style. I like riding, not stopping all the time.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX, Purple Hayes and the holy grail of brakes Hope 6 pistion TI wonders.
Bike Setup:
Tanked out Kona Stuff - 31.8 el Norte bars, Funn head honcho, deore hydros, beefed up Marx EXR fork (Fat guy springs and oil) and other assorted goodies
Bottom Line:
Bottom line... You get what you pay for. You want neck braking power - go with a big 6 piston caliper.. You want somethign that won't break the bank and most importantly not leave you hanging on a fire road... these are the brakes. Yeah they have a 6 inch rotor, but not too long ago we were ALL riding with rim brakes. So tough it up butter cup!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
drake
a
from singapore Date Reviewed: July 15, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$140.00
Strengths:
for it's money it's pretty strong, gripping power when you need it! all worth it for entry level hydraulic disc brakes!
Weaknesses:
noisy in the rain ( i thought a car jammed his brakes and skidded behind me -_-" )
Similar Products Used:
hayes mech disc mx2
Bottom Line:
this is a great disc brake! for it's price, it provides excellent control and feel, and the stopping power is superb enough for my weight (150lbs). Despite the noise in the rain, the stopping power provided was nonetheless better than my v-brakes, and i found the control excellent. No more tapping or subtle strength control. just pure power and control!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john armstrong
a
from Austin,Tx,usa Date Reviewed: May 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
supergo
Strengths:
super cheap, got two rears for about 100 bucks, got front lever from bicycle sport shop in austin-less than $30. Not bad for hydros. I am a bit over weight... (255) still works great on da steeps with not much fade.
Weaknesses:
yuppie dudes don't think you are as kool!
Similar Products Used:
cabble disk and hayes
Bike Setup:
xl heckler fr disk z1 fr
Bottom Line:
as good as it gets for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trevor yallop
a Cross Country Rider
from tillsonburg, ontario Date Reviewed: April 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
fanshawe lake
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came on bike
Strengths:
great power, smooth, good lever feel
Weaknesses:
very noisy when wet
Similar Products Used:
hayes, avid mechanical
Bike Setup:
stock '04 GT avalanche 0.5, rhino lite xl on xt hubs,lizard skins
Bottom Line:
I really like these brakes! however,I took a swim crossing a creek. The bike flipped over and a rock took the oil resevoir cap off leaving me with no rear brakes. Once I got home I realized that it had broken the housing where the screw hole is. I went to order a new maser cylinder housing at my LBS but they said they cannot get one.I called a larger shop in the city and they called shimano in California.They also said that they cannot get a replacement.What the hell is up with that? Shimano will sell me a pair of LX or XT lever sets for about $200! screw that!! On the shimano web site it says they will make exceptions on part orders to registered dealers, but both dealers I called said the part is not available!! that is freakin' B.S.!!!! I am in the middle of building an F.S. bike now(KHS 904r) and you can bet I will not use shimano brakes.I'm using HAYES HFX 9 because every part is available, they are lighter and barely cost more!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide, Australia Date Reviewed: April 26, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good looking, metal lever, easy to bleed, they use mineral oil not the DOT stuff
Weaknesses:
* 6" rotors might be a bit of a weakness - but not a major one
Similar Products Used:
Hayes MX2 cable discs
Bike Setup:
Specialized P2, Dirt Jumper 1s, Black Spire DS-1,
Bottom Line:
Excellent brake.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: April 26, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Deore 555 brakes: strong, lighter than XT or deore 525 and I got them for less money. Their design is very different from XT Deore or any other shimano brake, only the XTR is lighter. You can put stainless XT hoses on them no problem for better feel than the plastic ones.
Weaknesses:
Harder to find pads for the 555 model, Levers are not compatible with other shimano items if you want to upgrade the calipers, but dedicated systems are the norm with other brands of brake. The 555 models are set up using spacers, which is tedious, but saves weight. As with any disk, the pads are pricy, and I hate that.
Similar Products Used:
Deore 525's, Shimano XT, Hope mini and Hayes nine.
Bike Setup:
2004 Santa Cruz Blur Xt/Raceface Deus/Mavic Crossmax XL with a TALAS Fork. I brought these brakes over from my old bike.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is these are a great value cos of their power and weight and I should know, I am a mechanic. I can easily make them lighter by switching to a more perforated rotor. With the bike I have, I wanted full XT, but this was a better value for me and the custom build. Not as easy to set up as the 525 Deores, which are a totally different design, but as a bike mechanic, I do have patience. I recommend using automotive brake cleaner to clean them after a big ride, or less corrosive rubbing alcohol, but DO NOT GET THE BRAKE CLEANER NEAR THE CALIPER, HOSE OR LEVER, the materials are not compatible and will corrode. I remove the pads, then clean them and the rotor. As for brake fluids, DONT SCREW AROUND WITH BRAKE FLUIDS many kinds of fluids are out there, but all Shimano brakes take mineral oil only. If you want to save some cash, use low viscosity mineral oil, which you can buy at the drugstore for about $5 a litre instead of $10 for 100mL at the bike shop. But please, dont use Automotive DOT brake fluids, while they work well, after a few days, the fluid eats the seals on the master cylendar and on the pistons, leading to fluid leaks and system failure, and that stuff is corrosive, it eats the paint right off your frame. Pardon the mechanic's rant, but you dont want to screw around with the most important safty feature of your bike, would you pour motor oil into your cars brakesystem? Anyways, these are good brakes at a good price, either set of Deore disks. The 555's are lighter, a bit more powerful, silver and no longer made now that LX has thier own stuff. I do recoomend these brakes if you can find them, due the the value, power and weight ratio compared to others, even the other Deore's, and the pads are still easier to find than Magura or hope, at least here in Canada.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kerimo
a Cross Country Rider
from Oslo, Norway Date Reviewed: April 24, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good performance Easy to maintain Cheap pads
Weaknesses:
Don't like the oil-reservoir sollution Needs a few mods to work well
Similar Products Used:
Different brands
Bottom Line:
First of all, empty the hydraulic-oil, and replace it with DOT 4 or 5 brakefluid. This because the shimano-oil makes the brakes fade a bit after abuse. And add some "coppershiny-grease" at the back of the pads to eliminate the squeeling. And tata, you'll have great brakes for the price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ringo
a Downhiller
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: April 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
as long as I dont see anyone in spandex
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Super nice, light, dont squeal
Weaknesses:
they could look cooler
Similar Products Used:
didnt have to try anything elso
Bike Setup:
Specialized Demo 9, Fox 40R, EX729
Bottom Line:
These brakes stop when they need to. They dont squeal even when their wet. Get em if your too cheap to buy anyting else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stephen jennings
a
from renfrew Date Reviewed: March 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
street/dirtjumping
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
martin auto parts
Strengths:
awesome break.. everything is great used for about 15 min and pads are already are broken in and work great
Weaknesses:
non.. perfect price
Similar Products Used:
hayes mag.. hope mini.. hayes hfx-9.. avid mech.. deore mech..
Bottom Line:
best brake for the money... i just got it today.. took about 1 hour and ahalf to set up and bleed. rode for about 15 min and brake pads were broken in and work awesome.. lever feels great... if you looking for a good break and want a hydro get the deore!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Japan Date Reviewed: March 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Futago class
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Powerful, low maintainence, cheap.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Hayes HFX9
Bike Setup:
Yeti 575
Bottom Line:
I've used these brakes for 2 years and only changed the pads once. They require virtually no maintainence, compared to Hayes, which I also have. These really kick ass over Hayes. Overall, a superb brake for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
coolatt
a
from vancouver Date Reviewed: February 9, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Strengths:
Not a single thing has gone wrong. Super reliable. Good stopping power. Good lever feel
Weaknesses:
cheap looking rotors
Similar Products Used:
Hayes Mag, Magura Clara
Bottom Line:
This is for the 555's-silver deores. I did not use the stock rotors, I had some hayes rotors I used instead.
These are the best brakes I have ever used. I installed them myself with no problem. Not a sinlge thing has gone wrong, no brake rub (hayes), leaking (magura). Hayes HFX9's were the same price as these at the time and I have read lots of bad review on them. I you need more stopping power get 8" rotors
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Racer
from San Antonio Date Reviewed: January 5, 2005
These brakes came on my Epic. Being Deore I wasn't sure how well they would perform. I was surprised! Excellent stopping power. The front brake is so strong that you could send yourself flying over the bars easily. Very low maintenance. I have been running these brakes for ove a year with 1,000 miles on them. The only thing I've replaced are the pads on the rear. I've needed to adjust the alignment in the rear calpier a few times but that's to be expected as the pads wear. I've used these brakes for training races, and a 12 hour race. NO problems. Inferior to Hayes? I don't think so. I've experienced Hayes disc brakes on a friends bike. Didn't like them. Maybe they weren't set up correctly. I don't know, but I can tell you that these brakes are a value for the price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Gloucester, MA. Date Reviewed: December 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
dogtown
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
cant go wrong with these brakes,who cares if they're a few grams heavier than hayes or whatever. cant get a better hydro brake for that$. stop on a dime. so what, they squeak when wet, quit complaining and take your skirt off. they all squeak. glad i bought them will stick with them until i fry them
unless you got access to mom or dad's credit cards, by all means, get juicy 7's but guess what, they sqeak too. unless you worry about weight, what can i say, dont get them and perhaps you should hit the gym because if a couple extra grams affect your ridind that much, you're a pathetic weakling. end of story. over and out
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bernie
a Weekend Warrior
from Laguna, Philippines Date Reviewed: December 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Sta. Rosa Trails, Southwoods, & Caliraya
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
Sabak
Strengths:
Very nice modulation, easy to install, strong cable.
Weaknesses:
Rear cable is too long, needs tech to cut it off, generally none.
Similar Products Used:
Avid Mechanical, Deore Mechanical, and LX Hydros.
Bike Setup:
Hybrid of DH & XC
Bottom Line:
This is a good upgrade for the deore mechanical, and you'll get your money's worth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
turk
a Cross Country Rider
from mi Date Reviewed: December 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
excellent power and modulation
Weaknesses:
weight, rotors
Similar Products Used:
hayes
Bike Setup:
cannondale ht, lefty, cool flame job
Bottom Line:
these brakes work awesome. not very light, but neither am i. when you bend the rotors, and you will, replace them with hayes, they are lighter and work even better now. they seem to be a bit quieter now also.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a
from Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: November 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
1 year used
Strengths:
- great stopping power - easy ajustability - easy installation - work amazing in the rain - dont seem to ever overheat (even when i was like holdin it on like a whole runs at Bromont lol) - rotors super hard to warp
Weaknesses:
none really
Similar Products Used:
hayes hfx 9, hayes mx2 8" and 6", avid ball bearing disk, numerous v brakes, hayes mag, um...
Bike Setup:
Oryx desert dueler 66 with 04' dirt jumper one, shimano deore hydro in back, hayes mx2 8" in front, titec ringleader bars, ingot stem, deore rear derailer and shifters, lx front derailer, fsa v-drive xtreme crankset, intense mag 30s laced to xt hubs, mobster 2.7 in front, high roller 2.35 in back, wellgo pedals. thas about it, oh ya sram 7.0 cassette and sram pc69 chain
Bottom Line:
- AMAZING BANG FOR YOUR BUCK, why buy hayes that cost 50% more when you can have more reliability and just as much if not more stopping power for less $$.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anders
a Cross Country Rider
from Stockholm, Sweden Date Reviewed: November 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Good modulation, maintenance free, powerfull enough , good or best price out there.
Weaknesses:
Not really, could be lighter
Similar Products Used:
Hopes MonoM4, Mini, Hayes hfxmag
Bike Setup:
XC hardtail
Bottom Line:
I love theese brakes. All brakes squeal but some squeal a lot more. The Hopes drove me crazy squealing so very LOUD and long time after being wet. The Deores only squeal a little when wet and not so often like Hope. I can hear the birds sing again and now I´m a happy rider again. When I was using the Hopes I was just waiting for that terrible noice all the time riding. Now the noice is gone using Deores. We tried to fix the noice/squeal with the hopes but finally we gave up. And if You worry if the Deores are powerful ! (I weigh 85 kilos) The Deores are powerful. Enough to fly over the bars. I know, and it hurts like hell ! I go freeriding and XC and I will always use theese brakes because they are the best I have ever used. Brake in period was about 2-3 hours of freeride. They get so much more powerful after brake in period like all discbrakes. Install them, go riding and use the brakes a lot for about 2-3 hours and then You will love them. I do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: July 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Simple, good modulation, maintenance free... so far - whip V brakes any day
Weaknesses:
Obviously heavier than V brakes. But the trade was worth it.
Similar Products Used:
Lots of V, mech disk, hayes hydro
Bike Setup:
Giant AC AirLite - XT
Bottom Line:
Buy them they are often discounted mail order and are excellent for agro. cross country.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maciek
a
from Poland Date Reviewed: June 1, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Strengths:
I use 525 disc brake with 203mm XT rotor. The power is eversome! This cheap set is enough powerfull to roll the street, burn front tire, etc without even getting warm. Simply buy it! Dont waist twice more money for thing that isnt at all better!
Weaknesses:
None! Maby if it gets wet rotor scratches, but for me it isn't a problem.
Similar Products Used:
Shi**y shimano V-brakes
Bike Setup:
Check Bragstar frame + manitou Black 120 + DM 24 rims on 475 hubs + northshore X-up bar + alivio rest
Bottom Line:
Superb brake for cheap downhill. But dont be mislead - it is cheap, but better than most, and better than any other brake at this price. 130 $ for brake with 203mm rotor and adaptor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane B
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington State Date Reviewed: May 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Fruend, Devils Gulch
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
OEM product
Strengths:
Good stopping power, good modulation, easy to setup
Weaknesses:
Squeal like a pig when wet, levers bend easily
Similar Products Used:
Hayes Hydros
Bike Setup:
'03 Specialized Enduro, Fox Vanill 125R
Bottom Line:
These brakes work great for the money! Thay came on my enduro but I'll keep them since they work great. I was told that switching pad compounds help the squealing so I'll try that. For XC riding they are definately a step above V-brakes. RE: JACK from the post below. Let's see you buy a light duty disc setup and go downhill racing with them. Then they don't perform the way you wanted? Dude, you're a moron, you should've been laughed off the mountain for trying to race with those brakes. NO SOUP FOR YOU!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack
a Racer
from NYC Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
longwood
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Powerhouse bikes
Strengths:
NONE--
Weaknesses:
completely inferior to the HAYES hydr disc brakes. I bought the shimano and was so disappointed with its reliability and shoddy craftsmanship. The disc bent after on downhill run, the brakes would constantly need adjustment. I relaced w/a set of Hayes --awesome, never had a problem to date
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bike Setup:
Liquid 20
Bottom Line:
Spend the xtra coin and get a set of Hayes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack
a Racer
from NYC Date Reviewed: May 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
longwood
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Powerhouse bikes
Strengths:
NONE--
Weaknesses:
completely inferior to the HAYES hydr disc brakes. I bought the shimano and was so disappointed with its reliability and shoddy craftsmanship. The disc bent after on downhill run, the brakes would constantly need adjustment. I relaced w/a set of Hayes --awesome, never had a problem to date
Similar Products Used:
Hayes
Bike Setup:
Liquid 20
Bottom Line:
Spend the xtra coin and get a set of Hayes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shimon
a Cross Country Rider
from Israel Date Reviewed: May 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any ST
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
- Superb reliability (set-it-and-forget-it) - Good modulation - Good stopping power (one finger braking)
Weaknesses:
Only few minor - After crash, the plastic hoses is getting "kinked" at the hydravlic reservouar side (might require re-install and bleed. - Hard to center a caliper (all the shims fine tuning), so rotors drag from time to time.
Similar Products Used:
HAYES HFX (on stock Enduro), many V brakes
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain ETS X-50 almost stock
Bottom Line:
The best deal for your hard earned money! My previous bike was upgraded with 525 DEORE brakes and the current came stock with 555. None of the mentioned had any problem... The 555 is a bit stronger due to differnt caliper design. Compared to many HAYES that my friends have on their bikes, SHIMANO is much more reliable and has better modulation. I'm pleased with the system and my brakes never came close to the upgrade wish-list! You can find better brakes system, but you should pay !much! more... Once again, SHIMANO has no competition in a price/performance category!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jayson
a Weekend Warrior
from Pleasanton, CA Date Reviewed: April 29, 2004
The Deore Hyd. disk brakes came stock with the bike w/ XT rotors instead. I have no complaints as the brakes stop well and are easy to maintain. For the price, you won't find a better buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Wilkins
a Cross Country Rider
from Glasgow Date Reviewed: April 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Bikes
Strengths:
Massive improvement on V brakes, really powerful, low maintenance, fairly light, low price.
Weaknesses:
Pads a bit fiddly to change. Squeal when rotors covered in mud. Bleeding fiddly as well
Similar Products Used:
Hayes 9
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher
Bottom Line:
These brakes are great. Fit and forget. No maintenance required until pads need replaced and thats fairly straight forward. Big increase in confidence when decending using these over V brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve D
a Downhiller
from Edmonton Date Reviewed: April 6, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
Got the set off a friend.
Strengths:
Good braking, Good modulation, pad wear seems to be slow and I got them Cheap.
Weaknesses:
Rotors look like crap, Levers.
Similar Products Used:
HFX-9, HFX-MAG, Shimano Deore, Avid mechs.
Bike Setup:
Kona Stuff - Not very stock at all. Xt Rear, Deore front, Kujo Dh tires,Rhinolites on deore, Manatou Black fork, PC68 Chain, Pig DH Headset, ODI Lockons, Old tire for a Chain slap guard, and a Redblinky light (for morning rides to work). Everything else is stock
Bottom Line:
Damn good brakes. I had an HFX-9 on the front and a mag on the rear. They were getting kinda beat up.. time for an upgrade. Buddy was switching to mechs (for ease of repair) and Sold me these for 200 CAD. I was like YOINK. I love em, If I want... I am over the bars every time. I Want new rotors.. something more efficient. Bottom line.. Its either Deores, or XT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lars
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, WA, USA Date Reviewed: March 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Galbraith Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Gregg's Cycles
Strengths:
Everything. Once broken in, these brakes perform flawlessy in all conditions and have proven to be completely reliable.
Weaknesses:
There is no room for improvement whatsoever.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2002 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR disk
Bottom Line:
After a sketchy break-in period, I've found these brakes to be absolutely perfect. Modulation and power are spot on and they have been completely reliable in all conditions including heavy water and mud. Since the brakes came stock on the bike, I really had no idea what to excpect and have been continually impressed with the performance of this product. I really can't see how any other brake could out-perform the Shimano hydraulics. I'm just worried that they (Shimano) may try to "improve" these brakes and end up with a relatively inferior product. In the farthest reaches of my imagination, I couldn't conceive of any way to improve these. This is one of the best cycling products that I've ever used, period. I'd give them ten "Flamin' Chilis" if I could.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin Bryant
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: March 2, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Low cost, ultra reliable, low maintanence, excellent stoping power with good modulation, instill confidence, you know your going to stop, cheap pads.
Weaknesses:
Nothing worth complaining about! and thats after 2yrs and 3500 miles use. Yes the pads wear quicker in the winter and dont work so good after geting soaked, just like most of the other brands,its no big deal.
Similar Products Used:
Hope mini, xt, Avid, Hope m4 mono (upgrading to one of these soon for the front).
Bike Setup:
Orange Sub 5. deore, xt, raceface.
Bottom Line:
These are quality XC/light FR duty disk brakes, much better than any v brake. These brakes have been thrashed over my local trails, the Welsh mountains, and traveled to the North Shore of Canada. They have performed fautlessly and been 100% reliable. There are better systems out there, but they are all more expensive. If you like to mix XC, trail, and easy FR these brakes are more than adequate. Look else were if your in to serious FR and DH, there not made for it and will disapoint.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Guy Sicard
a Weekend Warrior
from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Date Reviewed: February 2, 2004
Favorite Trail:
wrandees or whopper dropper
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
daveco
Strengths:
They are reliable as any brake I've seen or tried. Cheap parts ( not that I've had to replace anything other than the pads) you can cut the housing. uses mineral oil amazing feel you can go 8" with different rotors and adapters
Weaknesses:
I did manage to bend both of my levers, but I bent them back. new levers are $20
for the price you can't get a better hydro brake overall I'll give it a 4 because of the levers
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Whitey
a Cross Country Rider
from Malibu Canyon, CA USA Date Reviewed: December 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Crags & Latigo
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
These brakes rock! One-finger control and stopping power no matter how steep. Just replaced the pads after over a year. Bleed 'em, set 'um, go ride!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Avid mechanicals - they suck.
Bike Setup:
'02 Kona Bear with stan's no-tubes, panaracer xc pro in back and wtb mutano raptor in front. Marzocchi mx w/ETA, wtb speed V seat, fox vanilla coil-over shock. Great brakes on a great bike.
Bottom Line:
Hey, for the money you can't go wrong. I ride hard and these brakes have held up really well. Finally lost the front brakes (pads wore out and lost lining) a few weeks ago. This was after 1000+ hard miles with lots of hard braking and long downhills. Stay away from the mechanical discs. Have fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Paradise, CA Date Reviewed: November 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything with singletrack
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$120.00
Purchased At:
Ebay Baby!
Strengths:
Great stopping power, very cheap, not alot of adjustment needed. Did i mention they were cheap? and very strong.
Weaknesses:
kinda heavy (but that doesnt matter) pads squeak like mad when they get dirty or wet and the rotor is cheap and overheats easy. need about 50 good stops to brake in.
Similar Products Used:
just v brakes
Bike Setup:
'03 giant rincon with hope disc therapy in back, mavic 223 wheel sets, fox float fork.
Bottom Line:
the bottom line is, these brakes are great. they work great, they are cheap and they are a great addition to any bike. to all of those who say they suck, they were probably intalled wrong or they werent broken in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ant
a Weekend Warrior
from Tokyo,Japan Date Reviewed: November 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Edogawa
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
Seo Cycle Lalaport
Strengths:
None,other than being cheap!
Weaknesses:
Totally unreliable and untrustworthy!Modulation is very poor.I applied my brakes and did an instant endo resulting in a wrist injury that still hasn't healed nearly 6 months later!
Similar Products Used:
Avid Mech's.....enough said! The best brakes in the world.Exactly like normal brakes until you really need them like in the rain or during a big descent,then you will find out how good they are!
Bike Setup:
Trek
Bottom Line:
Don't get them.I was spoilt by using Avid's.I got a new bike with these brakes as standard and after a few very unsatisfactory months using these brakes managed to endo at a very low speed due to their unreliability.Have since upgraded to Avid's.Not that I ever used Shimano's customer service,but I can surely attest to the fact that Avid's is first rate!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Garry Bowen
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Australia Date Reviewed: November 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Nasho
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Purchased with bike
Strengths:
Great modulation, ride and forget.
Weaknesses:
Bleeding and service not that easy, outright stopping power not as huge as I would have initally expected. Pads pricey. Pad life in wet.
Similar Products Used:
Various xtr, LX, Avid rim brakes. No other disk systems tried.
Bike Setup:
Avanti Hammer hardtail.
Bottom Line:
Having not used any other disc systems these brakes seem fantastic. Overall the stopping power is not huge but the moduation and ride and forget features of these brakes are outstanding. A little heavy perhaps but worth it. I ride agressive cross country and these brakes have not let me down once. Pads dont seem to last very long in the wet but that seems normal coming from rim brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Parker
a
from Brighton, UK Date Reviewed: November 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
South Downs @ Brighton/Kingston/Rottingdean
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Awesome stopping power (although not had exp of any other disc brakes - came staight from V's). Low maint. No rub after bad stacks! Nothing worse than riding home with bent rims and pads rubbing. Niiiiice.
Weaknesses:
Squeal...well, more like vibration on rear rotor (causes entire bike to vibrate at high speed). Have taken bike to lots of mechanics who are all left scratching their heads. Pads are NOT rubbing and rota set up straight. Squeal I can deal with but not this. Makes my nuts fizz. Not good. Pads have been replaced, rotors dirtied/roughed/sanded etc etc. Only started doing this after 14 months of use. V v frustrating and making me not want to ride. New rotor maybe? Anyone found this problem? Advice would be gratefully recieved.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper A1 Pro.
Bottom Line:
I can never go back to Vs and discs are a revelation but this vibe is becoming a nightmare. Slowing from high speed produces the same volume as a car horn. Go figure. I am unsure whether to bin the whole set-up and get new or go down the change of rota route. Not being very technical I am at the mercy of shops wanting to sell me more products (sorry...do I sound cynical?). Apart from that one thing, I am happy with the performance of the brakes. Would give more chilis if vibe wasn't there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Downhiller
from UK Date Reviewed: October 19, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Strengths:
Cheap as chips! More modulation than Hope. Easy to Maintain. Better lever feel than Hope or Hayes.
Weaknesses:
Absolutley mining rotor! Nearly no drillings and looks cheap. Replaced with a 203mm Hayes. Resivouir on top of lever easyly damaged.
Similar Products Used:
Hope Mini (best) and M4 (no modulation at all). Hayes MX-MAG DH 8'. Shimano XT (Good but leak all the time). Magura (Squishy as)
Bike Setup:
Street/DH/Dirt. Club Roost Stinger.
Bottom Line:
These brakes are sweet. Got the front for £30 from Halfords! The brake feel is exelent, and with a decent rotor, the modulation is better than any other I have tried (exept mebee the hope mini).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raymond
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Port Hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Browns Avanti Pro Cycle Centre Dunedin
Strengths:
Good strong well modulated brakes, minimal or usually no squeal except when wet. do not require bleeding, use conventional mineral oil, powerful and reliable for cheap brakes. Minimal break in period. Have done about 500kms on them and the pads are still less than half worn
Weaknesses:
Heavy Rotors, overheat and warp when used on a normal 2 hour cross country ride involving downhills to the point where I have to straighten them to prevent rubbing. Have seen a rotor in the LBS that was warped beyond repair. Busted the R/H master cylinder housing on a rock and had to purchase the whole lever assembly, couldn't remove the hose and sealing olive from the broken housing and had to cut the hose and had to fit new sealing olive, luckily had enough length to fit into the new housing.
Other than the problems mentioned above these work really well for what they are. will be replacing the rotors soon with either Hayes or Braking Wave Discs (Italian product) to get rid of the rotor warping problem, then I am sure they will not be given a second thought. Will give 4 turds for value as I have to replace the rotors and 4 turds for performance, same reason
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BOB
a Cross Country Rider
from Marysville CA Date Reviewed: October 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Upper Bidwell Chico
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
With Bike
Strengths:
They stop.Good stopping power.
Weaknesses:
Both rotors warped.Heavy.Lack of lever adjustment.
Similar Products Used:
First Disc.
Bike Setup:
Kona Dawg.Lx and Xt drivtrain. Mavic 519 Xt hubs. Marzocchi MX pro.
Bottom Line:
This is my first experience with disc brakes. The stopping power to me is good going from V brakes. I have some complaints like both rotors quickly got a woble. I slightly bent a lever and it appears you cannot replace just the lever (managed to staighten). I have had to recenter caliper a few times to keep from rubbing. They work well. After bending the lever I have worries about getting parts. Hayes sell small parts such as levers. Shimano needs to follow suit. Stopping power is very good. I like the brakes and will replace rotors soon. I think I will be putting these on my hardtail to upgrade it to disc.I like simplicity and maintainability and have doubts about keeping them up and running for the longhaul.For the money not bad but I am looking at Avid mechanicals for maintainability and simplicity reasons.If you ride hard you will possibly brake a lever and then what. Also the rotors warped.Also pads wear fairly quick.Okay all in all decent not great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mILO Lori
a Downhiller
from Whistler B.C. Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Dirt Merchant
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Glacier Shop
Strengths:
It stops you... Nuff said. Also A LOT cheaper to replace parts, as compared to Hayes parts.
Weaknesses:
Cheesy levers, and heavy rotors....but hey Hyros for under $200 bucks!
Similar Products Used:
Avid Mech, Hayes Mag hydro and mech... All crap.
Bike Setup:
03 Stuff, Deores all around, XTR derail and shifter, high rollers, Odi locks and a pimpin flame seat....It makes me go faster...It's a fact!
Bottom Line:
For the coin you cannot go wrong.. Others complain about the squeel when wet...Well i haven't seen a disc brake that doesn't make noise when they are wet. This brake gets a bad rap from people who have never tried them. Ya, Hayes are the standard, but Hayes parts are expensive compared to deore parts ($40 for a rotor compared to $80 for the hayes) People should worry less about looking like a hardcore rider and just get out there and ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Sale, Victoria, Australia Date Reviewed: September 16, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Flemington Cycles
Strengths:
Great stopping power for xc situations, modulation is better that all other non discs i have tried
Weaknesses:
loud when wet, not much of a problem for most of the test period.
Similar Products Used:
cantis, cheap v's
Bike Setup:
hard tail fox forx up front
Bottom Line:
These brakes are great, the only problems i have had is the loud squeel when they are wet and occational disk rub clean screwdriver will fix that.If only they were lighter i would put them on my new dream bike ( hope xtr is as good).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Maine Date Reviewed: September 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Charlie's Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
Stops well, works great, easy install, inexpensive
Weaknesses:
A little heavy(but I don't care)
Similar Products Used:
Hayes, magura
Bike Setup:
Raleigh Alum hardtail w/ Marzocchi MXComp
Bottom Line:
They work GREAT. Took about 6 miles to break them in. These brakes are the best bang for the buck out there. I'm guessing some of the reviewers that are having such problems with them probably got oil on the pads during install. just a guess.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Houghton, MI, USA Date Reviewed: August 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Cross Country Sports
Strengths:
good feel great power sleek look great price
Weaknesses:
front lever will not reset anymore. Just started screwing up. Freind had same problem. Brake still works just a pain. Tried a lot of things to fix it. Also where the hose connects to the lever is a bad design...comes loose on high impact causing leakage of all the fluid
Submitted by
Dylab
a Downhiller
from UK, Kidderminster Date Reviewed: August 24, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Easy Setup, Good Feel on the lever, no real heat build up problems.
Weaknesses:
THEY DON'T STOP ME, totally weak assed breaking going down hill, with a very slippery surface, and I still can't lock the back wheel
Similar Products Used:
Hope C2, on the front, so so happy I kept that from my old bike, rather than the Deore up front to, scarey,
Bike Setup:
Ruckus GT I-drive 2 2003, pretty much standard but Hope C2's up front, soon to be Avid's ala the 2004 Ruckus I thinks :)
Bottom Line:
Don't touch them, don't go near them, braking performance is just to to weak, normal rim brakes gave me better stopping power although less control ofcourse, definately don't have them on the front.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brent
a Cross Country Rider
from calgary, alberta, canada Date Reviewed: August 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
inexpensive, easy set-up, good power and reliable
Weaknesses:
resonance that sometimes translates into a squeal- maybe an easy pad fix?
Similar Products Used:
hayes hfx
Bike Setup:
specialized epic disc- came stock with the shimano 555s
Bottom Line:
Probably the best bang for your buck- I like them, although I would have gone with Hayes given the choice- not sure I'm too fussed either way after riding with these for a while. The only real complaint I've heard is from a friend who has the XTR hydraulics- he actually managed to get the oil boiling in his caliper on a really long, fast downhill- his brakes went all spongey and had to be flushed before they got back to original performance. On the other hand, I dropped 4200' over 11 miles the other day and had no complaints about fade or lack of stopping power.
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Submitted by
TDOG
a Cross Country Rider
from Vail Date Reviewed: August 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
The Kind
Strengths:
RELIABLE
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up from a previous review. Now that I've had these puppies for a few years...I gotta say SOLID, RELIABLE, EASY TO MAINTAIN. Sure they're not much to look at...but they've NEVER failed me in the field. No more hand fatigue from the death grip of cable brake systems.
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Submitted by
Michelle
a Downhiller
from Hamilton, New Zealand Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003
I really, really like these brakes. I've only just starting riding again after a big accident so I'm a little tentative and tend to hang on to my brakes a little too much. But these brakes seem not to mind! No nasty fade or pumping up on long downhill runs and the levers can be adjusted enough so that my little hands can actually reach and only need one finger braking.
I just wich I could find something the same as these for my DH bike
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Submitted by
Marcu Bogdan
a Downhiller
from Romania, Bucharest Date Reviewed: July 19, 2003
When i first tried them, i was disapointed by the braking power ... but after few rides the brake become very strong, you can do easyly a headslap ;) So far i had no problem with this brakes.
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Submitted by
Magnus Ingels
a Downhiller
from Uppsala Date Reviewed: July 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
åre dh-track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good braking... low cost
Weaknesses:
non yet!
Similar Products Used:
Magura Gustav M
Bike Setup:
Mavic D321- rims, Avanti Hot Dog frame, Nokian gazzaloddi 2,6" etc etc
Bottom Line:
Works perfect for freeriding. Just what I was lookin' for.
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Submitted by
Lourens van Aswegen
a Weekend Warrior
from Harrisburg, PA Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Michaux state forest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$95.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
These brakes offer some sweet stopping power and they are cheap as hell. I freeride and downhill and these brakes are enough for me. I tried the Shimano XT's and there is virtually no difference. If you're looking for a cheap pair of disc brakes that work, then these are the ones for you.
Weaknesses:
Take a few descents to run in.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT's
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Gemini 2000, Zocchi Jr.t Sun wheels laced to XT hubs, full XTR drive train with Blackspire dewlie guide
Bottom Line:
These brakes are cheap and they work well. GO FOR IT
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Submitted by
Thomas
a
from Spanish Fork, UT, USA Date Reviewed: July 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
aebike.com
Strengths:
good lever feel, good power, quiet
Weaknesses:
not pre-bled. should have come with a syringe for filling/bleeding, cotter pin to secure pads seems like poor design
Similar Products Used:
cantis, v-brakes, magura rim brakes
Bike Setup:
old Fisher Joshua, Judy SL fork, Magura Raceline rear brakes
Bottom Line:
These are a lot more powerful than my old Magura rim brakes. They take a little getting used to, since a light touch is all I need (unlike my Maguras, which required a death-grip when going down hill). The levers have a nice feel. These brakes seem a bit grabby, but I've only put about 25 miles on them, so maybe the pads need a little more break-in. A few unexpected nose-wheelies have added excitement to my rides! A lot of people have mentioned that theirs squeal. I haven't heard a peep out of mine. I also haven't noticed any drag. I wish I could put these on my rear wheel.
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Submitted by
Julian Wiegmann
a
from London UK Date Reviewed: July 5, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Bike Setup:
Kona Caldera 2003
Bottom Line:
well after first starting out on these i was dissapointed cause the stopping power is so weak. BUT OH NO after a few hours the stopping power increased and I LOVE THESE brakes. Cheap brakes that work well and you can upgrade the rotor and pads when you need. What more do you want?
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Submitted by
david joseph
a Cross Country Rider
from thorold,ontario,canada Date Reviewed: June 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
hardwood hills ontario
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
liberty bicycles
Strengths:
good power,mineral oil,dependable shimano
Weaknesses:
stock pads/rotors
Similar Products Used:
hayes hmx1,radius disks,avid cps disc
Bike Setup:
oryx tline/xt drivetrain/marzocchi exr air 100 fork/time pedals/deore br555 hyd discs
Bottom Line:
dont waste time,i wore out the stock pads in a week and scored rotors,after swaping to hayes rotors and koolstop pads VEEERRRYYY IMPRESSED !!!!!!!! THE WAY TO GO!even after rotors and pads still much cheaper than most.
p.s. i weigh 257 lbs, good stoppers,verry little maintenance BUY THIS PRODUCT AND SAVE MONEY,HAVE MORE FUN RIDING.
$ 100.00
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