Upgrade Tektro Novela to Avid BB5?

[bozmandb9]

Hi there guru's. I've just bought a secondhand Trek 7.2, it's my first bike with disc brakes, and I can't help feeling they should be better. I've spotted some Avid BB5 brakes secondhand for £20, so thinking of upgrading. Is it worthwhile? How difficult or easy to fit and set up? I guess maybe I'll fit, then get properly set up by a pro?

Also does it matter that the Avid brakes are 160 140 rotors, and the Tektro 160 front and rear? I'm assuming I just use a 160mm rotor on the rear, and fitting will be fine?

Thanks in advance.

David

 

[bozmandb9]

Thanks for the reply User, no, they're Tektro Novela at the moment. I may have a look at the Shimano hydraulic brakes, thanks.

 

[ianrauk]

Avoid BB5's, they are pants. A nightmare to adjust.

 

[bozmandb9]

Which hydraulic Shimanos are you talking about? I like the look of the XT's, but looks like it's £55 x 2!

 

[bozmandb9]

Thanks Paul. Are they easy to fit? Where did you get them from? Would be a pain to have to swap the levers over, especially as they're pre-bled. I've found them for £65 at CRC

Main complaint seems to be from hose too short, but shouldn't be an issue on my bike, guess it's more on MTB's with adjustable shocks, and 29 inch wheels.

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/shimano-acera-m395-disc-brake-set/rp-prod114936#

 

[bozmandb9]

Thanks. How much did you pay for fitting? I was intending to get a brake service anyway, so I guess it's a good time to do the swapover!

 

[bozmandb9]

So anything else I need Paul? Should I order Shimano rotors? I don't think I need new rotors, but they look cheap enough. I'm looking at the recommended ones to go with the M395 kit. How do I know if they fit? I don't know if I have Shimano centre lock hubs!
http://www.rosebikes.co.uk/article/shimano-sm-rt54-brake-disc/aid:592069

 

[bozmandb9]

Just looking at my bike, I think I'll need to cut the hoses anyway. Also, since I currently have cables, the frame has routing only for the cables, and wires, any advice as to how I will be able to route the hydraulic hoses? Thanks in advance.