[pnj]

I know this subject has been discussed but I couldn't find it.

I have a avid 160mm disk on the front. it was set up by a pro but I have never been happy with it. it won't even lock up.

I heard there was a break in time so I rode around for a few days with the lever pulled in a tad to try and wear them in. no luck.

what's the deal? How do I get these things to stop me?

 

[Chris2fur]

Couldn't really answer without looking at pad adjustment, throw of outer pad, etc.. You should be able to endo on command, if you wanted to. I have had no issues with mine, other than noise that is remedied by sanding the pads and cleaning the rotors with alcohol. Sorry this isn't much help, but at least you know your situation is unusual. Maybe get the instructions and set it up yourself. It is a very sensible design, that doesn't require professional help, IMHO. Good luck.

 

[pnj]

I have a hard time seeing the pads when the wheel is on. Maybe I'm just blind but it feels like I need to have my face about 3 inches away to see what's going on....

i have the instructions......
I feel stupid.

 

[Chris2fur]

With the stand, I can rotate the bike to the best angle to see exactly what is going on. That way you can spin the wheel and test the breaks with a direct view of what is happening. If you are inside, you can use a small flashlight. A quick start-from-scratch method for setup is to loosen the CPS bolts, crank both pads tightly against the rotor using the red adjusting knobs, with about twice as much of the rear pad showing as the front. Tighten the CPS bolts down and back off the respective pads to get enough clearance and for the feel you want. I've heard that the best way to break in the pads is by going down a long, steep hill (on the road) and breaking hard at speed. As for me, they seem to break in just from normal use. Hope some of this blather is useful...

-Chris

 

[Serial Midget]

I just got a set of 180s and they are more powerful than the 160s - they locked up so fast I had to back them off. Now the 160's I got new last year seemed to take some break in time - a year later they work perfectly.

The avids are very easy to adjust - trial and error is more fun than reading the manual.

 

[pnj]

i removed the pads and one was completely worn down. but it was worn at an angle. I don't know how it got cocked and wore down funny but I replace the pads and now they work fine.

amazing.....

 

[Serial Midget]

Originally posted by pnj
amazing.....

No. It's magic.

 

[Chris2fur]

Different pad compounds are available. If your pads wear down too quickly, you can get the Metallic disc pads (unless you already have them). They tend to last longer. Anyway, sounds like you're on your way to being your own "pro."