Originally Posted by
sunset1123
V-brakes are lighter than discs. They don't stop quite as well. IME this is not a worthwhile compromise.
I, and many will beg to differ. A good set of Vs, like XTR, Paul motolite, Avid single digit 7's, are all very very good brakes when set up correctly using quality levers, cables and housing.
In fact, from personal experiance, the single digit 7's and pauls out stop any mech disk brake I've used, and wieght a crap ton less. A good set (not cheapo) of hydro brakes stop amazingly good, but a good set of proberly set up V's will stop just as well, if not better. Non-disk wheels tend to be lighter too. Not always, but generally are.
Most people with poor V experience where using either crappy brakes, crappy levers, or had them set up poorly. One of the most common V-brake complains at the shop is due to improper adjustment, or incorrect housing/cable installation. (please, please, PLEASE use ferrules and the correct cables... Seen too many housing with no ferrules, then the customer complains on sloppy braking. This goes for shift cables too.)
+1 on the engine. Loose 5 lbs, you'll notice a huge difference, even if you don't think you need to. And the best way to do that? Go ride more. And your penis will look bigger too....
