Recommendations 

Are Shimano Deore XT brakes good?

Kobe Glover

Are Shimano Deore XT brakes good?

Overall. The latest Shimano XT brakes should satisfy most trail riders, though diehard fans of the line might need a little coaxing to appreciate the updates. With dependable performance plus easy set-up and maintenance, XT brakes are still the ones to beat.

How do I identify my Shimano brakes?

The inside of the brake caliper (on the other side of the Shimano label) is a model number. Also on the bottom of the brake lever there should also be a model number.

What are the best MTB brakes?

Best mountain bike brakes

  • TRP Quadiem.
  • Clarks M2.
  • Magura MT5.
  • Hayes Dominion A4.
  • SRAM Guide RE. Mongrel mix with pedigree performance.
  • SRAM Code RSC. Ultimate control with impressive power.
  • SRAM G2 Ultimate. The benchmark disk brake for trail bikes.
  • SRAM Level Ultimate. Minimal weight but full control.

How do you take apart a brake lever?

  1. Pull the brake lever all the way in to expose the inside of the brake lever assembly.
  2. Loosen the bolt holding the brake lever on. This will loosen a metal band on the back of the brake lever assembly. Note: For me, a 5 mm Allen wrench was needed.
  3. Slide the brake lever assembly off of the handle bar.

Can you replace Shimano brake levers?

Yes, you can replace just the lever blade on a Shimano brake. Shimano sells most models of lever blades separately. It’s not a hard job to replace a lever blade.

Is Zee better than XT?

Shimano Zee is the brake for no-frills riders who love the descents. On the trail the longer pad and smoother, four-piston delivery means that the brakes are less grabby than the two-piston XT and Deores, delivering more modulation with power on tap if you need it.

Can I use SLX rotors with XT brakes?

6 Bolt XT rotors will definitely work with SLX brakes. They can be used with all Shimano Hydro brakes.