[killerasp]

i have a set of avid juicy 3 brakes. i noticed that with my front brake lever, its takes about a 2" pull of the lever before the brakes kick in. ive bleed them 3 or 4 times and no change. i have a pair of hayes on my XC bike and and they are much more reactive then the avids. could it be a lever problem?

 

[Racebike]

If the bleed has been properly done, check your pads for wear, if your discs have been used a long time they could be a bit thin as well, but this is more unusual.

Also note that Avid have a very different feel compared to Hayes.

Avid tend to be more "squishy" and progressive in their braking action, Hayes tend to be more firm and direct.

 

[sanjuro]

Also, your bleed technique might be the issue.

You might try removing the pads and using a shim to keep the rotors separate when bleeding.

You will get more DOT fluid into the system.

 

[gruvlis]

follow the directions that come with the bleed kit to a "T" if you miss a step juicy's will not work...use fresh pads too.

 

[zebrahum]

You could try to change the reach adjuster. It's the 2mm allen key between the lever and the grip on the pivot. It's possible it's worked it's way in. But I would guess your bleed isn't quite right.

If you're careful, you can keep the pads in, then pump the lever to close the gap. Then very carefully bleed the brakes again (don't get oil on the pads), close the caliper bleeder, keep the lever bleeder open, then pry the pads apart (very carefully, don't f up the pads). If it works, you'll have exactly the right amount of fluid in the system, and you might just kick out the last bit of air in the system.