Posts by Ethan Cook36

Kona Nunu 2011
Shimano BR 445

The issue is this: every single time I apply even a little bit of brake pressure, I nearly pitch myself headfirst over the handlebars. I’m running an 180 mm rotor up front and a 160 mm one in the back. Is there any way to actually "loosen up" these brakes so I can get some decent modulation? When I'm riding downhill, it's a total nightmare; honestly, I'm terrified I'm going to end up losing my teeth because of these things.

Try messing with that small adjustment screw located between the lever and the handlebar using an Allen key, and then see how the brakes respond. Play around with that setting for a bit, and you might actually find a way to get better control and feel when you're braking.

Don't skimp on a decent set of brakes, because they are easily the most critical component on your bike.
If your girl is hitting the trails, just get her some hydraulic brakes from a brand you actually trust.
It doesn't matter if you go with Shimano SLX, XT, or even Shimano XTR; at the end of the day, safety is what matters, so buy what you can afford.

Those of us who take off-road riding seriously enough to know exactly what reliable stopping power means.