Which brakes to upgrade to?

Question

Currently got Hayes Stroker Trails with 7" rotors. Anybody got any suggestions on what I can upgrade to?

Not bothered about price. Hydraulic Discs only.

Will be used on my Giant Reign X1, mainly for DH riding.

Answer 1

I personally think the Hayes are great brakes but if I were making a change I'd go with the XT dual hydro set up.

Answer 2

I've read good things about the Strokers.  Other options are Magura Louises BAT, Hope M4, Avid Code, Avid Elixir (when they come out), Avid Juicy 7, Shimano XT (new ones), Formula The One.

Answer 3

Strokers are awesome.....what's wrong that you feel you need to upgrade?  If things are set up properly and the pads/rotors are clean, then you should be stopping just great.  You could get 8" rotors (and the adapter for each caliper) if you need more grip.

One of the great things about Hayes is parts availability....both from the manufacturer and from many distributors.  Avid is decent about that, too, but Hayes has the advantage here.  

If you want to switch to another brake, I'd check out the Avid Code, or something from Hope.  It sounds like the '09 Saint brakes will be flippin' awesome, too, but you'll need a centerlock hub (the normal sized one...for '09 they got rid of that silly oversized setup).

Answer 4

Avid Codes Also Recommended

Hope M4's With Super Tacky Pads Cant Lose

Anything With 203mm Rotor Will Be Nice And Powerful For DH

Karl

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