newbie to hydraulic disc questions

[fatoldaggie]

Sorry for the basic Q's... appreciate links to FAQ's etc.

I have about 15 rides on my Trek Sawyer, it has "Avid Elixir 1 hydraulic disc brakes"

I've noticed now that there is a fair amount of "play" in the levers before the brake is engaged; this was not the case when new.

Is this normal? What is the adjustment I should make?

Also - can someone explain to me the advantages of hydraulic vs cable-actuated disc brakes?

thanks.

[fatoldaggie]

Bueller?

[007]

Great bike. I've got last year's sawyer and love it.

It's hard to say without actually experiencing the lever feel, however, when you say "play," what does that mean? More movement in the lever before the pad's engage (a.k.a. free stroke)?

Is the stopping power the same?

[fatoldaggie]

Yes, free stroke. Lever moves most of the way to the bar before brake engages.

Max braking force is the same, I guess. Brakes still work anyway. Just wondering what I should be looking out for, care and maintenance etc.

[007]

Sounds like there's air in the system that has migrated to the lever. Not unheard of for Avid brakes to need a bleed out of the box. I'd hit up your LBS since the bike is so new and make them do it.

[fatoldaggie]

cool, thanks... any thoughts on why / whether hydraulic is supposed to be better than cable?

[jeffscott]

cool, thanks... any thoughts on why / whether hydraulic is supposed to be better than cable?

Less friction in the force transmission to the brake...lighter now a days....

Most hydraulics both pistons move and self adjust.

Most cable brakes only move one piston and require on going adjustment.