Avid Mechanicals...which cables to use ??

[Shencycle]

Has anyone noticed any significant difference by using a cable such as the Avid flack Jacket or Full Metal Jacket.......Or should I just stick with the stock XTR cables to run these brakes...It is a new build so choices are open........Let me know your thoughts....especially if you have used both.....I am going to be running 160mm rotors f/r .........if that persuades any opinions....thanks
:monkey: :monkey: :monkey:

[Dropout]

I run an Avid on the front of my bike, with the stock cables that came with my Avid 5 brake levers, and I have had no problems with the power of the disc brake. I haven't changed the cables in two riding seasons, and I am just now starting to notice a bit of loss in my modulation of the brakes (they are starting to operate in an "on/off" only fashion).

I have heard that the full metal jackets and flak jackets make a difference for the rear brakes operation, but I have no personal experience.

[Drunken_Ninja]

Buy Jaguar super reinforced cables for disc brakes or you will be left with sponge.

[rfemurfx]

it is a good idea to use the flak or full metal jackets either rear only or front and rear. the reason a rear brake feels a little more spongy than a front brake is due to the housing flexing under the load of the cable, when the brake is applied. if you are using a lever that allows you to adjust the levereage point (like LX, XT, XTR, and some AVIDS whith the red dial) using the full metal jackets should give you a good lever feel. if you do not use such a brake lever, the brakes, especialy the front, may feel real stiff.

[Shencycle]

Originally posted by rfemurfx
it is a good idea to use the flak or full metal jackets either rear only or front and rear. the reason a rear brake feels a little more spongy than a front brake is due to the housing flexing under the load of the cable, when the brake is applied. if you are using a lever that allows you to adjust the levereage point (like LX, XT, XTR, and some AVIDS whith the red dial) using the full metal jackets should give you a good lever feel. if you do not use such a brake lever, the brakes, especialy the front, may feel real stiff.

I will be running XTR levers. I was also concerned about the odd routing on this frame....a '02 Specialized Enduro.....The rear routing may not be condusive to the Stainless steel tube.....?????:confused:

:monkey:

[rfemurfx]

good point!! but using the flak jackets should be O.K. the outer is just like regular housing, but if you are crafty and can get some "Heat Shrink" then you can use it to protect the frame and still be able to use the full metal jackets.
just a thought. i'll be surprised if you have problems no matter what you use. those brakes do work surprisingly well.