Posts by analogtrucker13

Currently, I’m running a 160/160 setup, though I am seriously contemplating bumping that up to a 180/160 in the front, especially since I’ve seen others pulling it off quite successfully

Listen, I am reaching out to anyone who might actually have some expertise here, because, quite frankly, I am completely flying blind when it comes to hydraulic systems. Currently, my setup relies entirely on mechanical brakes, but I’ve been seriously considering making the jump over to hydraulics—specifically looking at the Formula K24s. Since I find myself in this predicament of total uncertainty, I really need some guidance. Here is the crux of my dilemma: is it possible to simply purchase these brake kits and swap them onto my bike exactly as they are, assuming everything matches up with my old mechanical ones? Because the way I see it, everything seems to be included in the Formula package, but I can't help but wonder... do I need to make a special trip to a local shop like AutoZone or a dedicated bike boutique to pick up extra components just to facilitate the transition from mechanical to hydraulic?

I happened upon a set of pre-owned Formula K28 brakes for my $317, and wouldn't you know it, they're sitting right there at a local Walmart where they're retailing for $1,200 apiece? Now, I’ve been offered the entire kit—both sides and everything included—for a mere $950 total, and from what I can tell, they're in perfectly fine condition. So, I find myself wondering: is this actually a savvy deal, and are these brakes even any good in the grand scheme of things?

So, here I am, currently wrestling with these old-school mechanical Tektro brakes, and I’m seriously contemplating making the leap over to hydraulic Avid Juice 5s ($283 per brake). What I’m really trying to get at is: what is the actual reality of these brakes once you're out on the road? Is there a tangible, noticeable difference in stopping power, or am I just chasing a ghost? Has anyone actually spent some real time with these specific models? You see, I’ve lived my whole life with mechanical setups, so the idea of hydraulics is somewhat foreign territory to me. Also, do they suffer from that same annoying squeal when things get wet, just like the mechanical ones do? And honestly, are they even worth the extra cash? Thanks in advance!