Cranks. Right now I'm upgrading to shorter cranks, and these Hope sets cost an arm and a leg. Fortunately, I know Hope makes an extremely high-quality product in lots of awesome colors, which is the most important thing for me after safety. I've heard very good things about the relatively affordable Canfield cranksets, but they lack the colors. If there's a high-quality, affordable set out there in fun colors, I'd be very interested. In fact, I'd be interested in high-quality, relatively affordable, anodized components generally.
Shimano's entry level 4 piston brakes is all you need even for a 50lb ebike. I have a Trek Rail and it came with Shimano M6100 series 4 piston brakes. A very basic hack that I did to improve braking power was to upgrade from a 200mm rotor to a 220mm rotor and replaced the factory brake pads to MTX red label pads. Braking power was improved significantly and most important, modulation was increased. Also 220mm rotors dissipates more heat than a 200mm rotor that has less material that heat can be transferred to.
@@billydeewilliams8909 I use Galfer 223mm x 2.0mm rotors. More surface area and thickness to extract heat from the brake pads which translates to less brake fade.
@@viperrules24all the four pot Shimano callipers are pretty well the “same” the big differences across the lineup is the lever as you move up the range.
Great review Dale. Norco shipped my 2020 Sight with a set of 420's, and they are now the only component on my bike that hasn't been replaced or upgraded. Given that I weigh a little more than two of you and I've never had issues with insufficient power or fade, I'd have to say I'm a huge fan and testament to non-series Shimano brakes.
Thanks Wes, and that's awesome! The 420 caliper is very similar to the 520 I believe. The price difference happens more on the lever side, where I don't love the lever shape and lack of adjustment on the 401. Power for days though no doubt! 🙂
The MT420s lack the ceramic pistons. According to an article on BikeRumor, AASQ #92, a Shimano rep claimed that ceramic pistons were a big game changer in brake performance, in terms of stick piston issues.
These brakes are fantastic. They came stock on my norco range ebike and i upgraded them with galfer purple pads and galfer rotors. They have all the feel and performance of the higher end options but are kind of a ‘sleeper’ with how people may not even know what they are or that they exist.
I have not commented in a while on the channel but props to you Dale for going in front of camera. I recall a time you were timid to. Your mom would be proud.
"The Dale Scale" has got to be the best evaluation method name ever! Liking the new approach to your vids, DS. I have been wanting to learn more about the 'Three MTBusakteers' views on parts and bike maintenance suggestions.
Thank god to hear I'm not the only one suffering from the self-contaminating Shimano brakes, thought I was going crazy.. Storing bikes at any angle in fluctuating temperatures is a recipe for failing brakes in my book
@@phil5073 I'd get the SLX ispec ev levers for the ease of adjustment and ability to modify the lever with M4 grub screws to obtain free stroke adjustment 😎
I have these exact brakes on my Giant Trance X, and can confirm they are some awesome brakes! Way more stopping power than I expected to have, so haven't even bothered looking for an upgraded pair yet.
I've been exclusively using 420/520s for a little while now, I'll buy the calipers a la carte and pair them with XT or SLX levers which comes out to ~230 as well. Feels identical to an XT set at half the price. Interesting to see a back to back comparison with a set that costs 500% more!
Great video Dale 🤟 I love shimano brakes! I've had thease brakes (520), the deore (6120) and the slx (7120) and they all preformed identically. Very consistent and powerful. I would absolutely recommend them to any and all riders.
Wholeheartedly agree with this review as I have bled a lot of brakes over the years. The MT520s are “set em and forget em”. XT/XTR and even Saint have had the maddening bite point issue for me… but not the lowly 520s, go figure!
I think anyone who has doubt about the performance of this brake should just watch tons of your ride videos when you were on it to get rid of the doubt, as simple as that.
Great review and the first one that mentions the leaking Shimano calipers. I had one set of MT520 and they started leaking at calipers after first ride when bike was left in storage for few weeks (both wheels on the ground) and ruined my brake pads. Brakes were under a warranty so I got a replacement set from Shimano but both of the new ones were leaking in their factory box when opened it so my confidence in MT520 and Shimano brakes has gone for now. I just can't have brakes in my bike that may or may not work when I grab my bike for a ride. My previous brakes were Shimano Zees and those leaked also from calipers when the bike was left unused for a while. I warrantied those also and sold the new warrantied brakes to my friend and got the MT520 to find out that they are leaking also. My friend used the Zees for few months and they also started leaking from calipers. My local bike shop told me they have had some bikes with Shimano brakes (especially Zees) that have leaked on the shop floor and they have had to replace those under warranty. I really like Shimano brakes for their performance and the easy bleeding but waiting for some new design from them that would solve the leaking calipers. Now riding Sram Code RSCs and they are ok but not great (one lever was leaking when new but the replacement has been ok for few years now). Maybe Magura MT7 next, waiting for your review on those and your findings on the reliability and ease of bleeding/setup (some have complained that it's hard to get them setup without pads dragging).
We watched your video with the Intend brakes. That company looks to be putting out some fantastic stuff. I really like the look of their upside down forks, but I always liked the Lefty. We just bought some MT5's for the new season. Can't wait to try them out.
These came on my Slash 7 and they were great for local trails. They couldn't really keep up on bike park days (Whistler hot lap sessions) But otherwise for the average shmuck these offer great value. A set of decent pads is a real boost too!
Imo, feel is the most important part of the brake system. It will definitely relieve your wrist from arm pumps or makes it worst. Most brakes 4 piston are good now. You'll just need good brake pads and good thick rotor.
Feel is definitely a big factor, but personal preferences are a hard thing to rate as an individual haha. There's still quite a bit of deviation within the 4 piston market too!
A really helpful and pro-spec video, thanks. I never had problems with the MT520s I ran on my hard-pressed trail bike, but the MT501 levers experienced total piston failure about four times in two years. In fact, after one really hot night in my garage both levers failed together. Shimano were good and replaced them, but strange all the same. The rear needed bleeding about every 2-3 months (350ish miles). Anyway, cool story over.
That's definitely disappointing. I've left my bike in my black car on more than a few hot summer days and have never had any issues. Performance has changed with temperature but never to the point of failure thankfully.
They came on my 2022 Scott Genius, and have been amazing... simple and effective. I'm 168 lbs and they have more than enough power and modulation for me. I recently purchased a set of Code RSC because I got a great deal on them, but Im skeptical about putting them on the bike since these shimano's have been so good. We'll see
These are my goto brakes for bike builds. Price/performance cant be beat. I am a shimano guy as i like my brakes to feel the same across my bike stable. Ive got the 520, deore 4 pot, slx 4 pot, and xt 4 pot. Cant tell a difference between them on the trail. They lack the extras of slx and up, but those dont matter to me. Once i set the lever reach, its done. Tooless doesnt matter to me. The banjo at the caliper is nice but i can live with out it.
@DaleStone I also use Microshift Advent X as my drive train as well. Lighter than XT 12 spd, and the entire thing can be had for not much more than an XT cassette. I take those savings from the brakes and drive train and put it into wheels and suspension where you do since bigger returns on your dollars.
As someone who store my bike hanging from the front wheel, as well as owning Shimano brakes I may need to give your theory some evaluation. After the first winter(long period of time just hanging on the wall) the brakes felt like garbage, just no bite at all. I just chafed the pads on some sandpaper, and gave it another go. They've just gradually become better, but far from great. I know some people manage to push their piston(s) in at an angle which often cause damage and even crack the piston(s) if they are the ceramic kind. Personally I only use a tool that push pistons on either side in with an even and straight push so I haven't really considered my calipers to be leaking. I am going to fully serve them before the season start and I will be changing pads at least anyhow, so I'll just have a closer look at things when that time comes(no season here until early June so no hurry...)
Curious to hear what you find! For me it has definitely not been cracked pistons since these brakes have metal ones (I have cracked XTR pistons before..). It might be something that neither of us expect too! 🙂
I’ve had a similar issue with my trp trail evo brakes. first set i’ve ever had issues with contamination while inverted, but it is a similar slow leak around the pistons. only in the rear, adding to the confusion.
Another great review video Dale. Your exceptional presentation ability combined with your equal (greater?) skill on a bike combined still further with your mechanical knowledge (you are an engineer after all!) make you a natural for this type of content. I would consider your opinions to be broadly reliable for all but the nichiest of riders. Now to check my bike for what type of brakes I have… I don’t even know, but I think it’s these lol!
I got them on my trailbike for more than 2 years. After a crash i had to replace the lever and chose a xtr. At my 120 kg I never had to be skeptical on performance, but I have to say that I really can´t use more than 50% of my gripstrength. Last year when I needed to make a service caused by dirty pads and disc, I discovered a little damage at one of the ceramic pistons. And found a more hidden one, too. You can´t replace those, so I needed a new one and decided for another one of the 520s to use less gripstrenght in a more relaxed handposition. But I agree with your opinion. They are worth a try.
These brakes came on my Ebike. They’re phenomenal. If you don’t mind they don’t have the bells and whistles and just want stopping power, then you won’t go far wrong.
Love the reviews. My Optic came with the 420s with metallic pads and they’ve been very reliable. I hated the lever’s and picked up the 520 ones cheap and they are great fit Ontario riding. I hang my bike from the front tire and haven’t had any leaks yet over the last three years. Hope it doesn’t start now 😂.
420 calipers with 501 levers is indeed the ultimate budget solution, it's just a shame they aren't sold as a set! Fingers crossed my leak theory remains a theory, though I don't know what else could cause the contamination...
Great review with heaps of useful information. I've noticed the same contamination problem with my Stance, which came with 520s I think. Have never been able to fix it, and it did this from new. I have just recently upgraded my other bike to Deore 4 piston brakes, which I think are the branded version of the 520 and very similar if not almost identical. What a difference, can go much faster downhill now :-) BTW there are 3rd party adapters for mounting SRAM onto Shimano.
These reviews are great! I had a set of these unfortunately I had nothing but wondering bite point. Still can't deny the price to performance of these. Love the video. I hope you do lewis lh4 brakes next!
Interesting, I've experienced the wander on most levels above these, but not actually these. LH4 definitely won't be next but hopefully sooner than later! 🤘🏻
I'm running shimano zee Brakes, they're about the same price. I didn't have any issues with these as well but they seem very similar to the 520s, except they look more like saints and are branded.
I have Shimano MT520, Deore M6120, 2x Zee, and XT M8120 brakes. Only my XT brakes have wandering bite point. Whatever "improvements" Shimano added to their latest XT and XTR brakes have clearly made the issue worse.
Honestly, all you need to maximize braking would be bigger rotors. I been riding on SLX brake set with 223/203 rotors now for about 2 years. I'm over 200lbs and ride red trails with no worrying on brakes. Those other high end components are probably well above of our capabilities. MT 520 👍
Increasing rotor size is an excellent way to get more power from the same brake, but in some cases it's just a bandage fix for poor design! At your weight 223/203 is definitely the ticket on steep stuff though.
These came standard on my Scott ransom in 2019; I think they were the first component I upgraded on that bike, after they gave me issues in bikeparks with overheating twice. Tried different pads, bigger discs,bled them , problems arose again. It was always after around 200m of descent, and before a sharp turn where i had to brake hard. I was able to pull BOTH of the levers almost completely to the handlebar, scared me shitless😅 I weigh around 85kg so I’m not super heavy. Switched to saints and pretty happy with them since.
Nice series man! Good behind and in front of the camera ;) The MT520 hardly lack (if at all) any braking power in comparison to the Deore, Slx, XT/XTR Lineup. Shimano states they have around 10% less power than their named lineup but I cannot agree. They do feel a little different on the lever side (no added bumps), but overall are pretty much the same as the M-x120 4 piston brakes. I used to run them with Trickstuff Powerpads and rotors. The only downside for me was I-Spec2. EV is just so much cleaner on the cockpit. The looks of the lever and caliper only saying Shimano is actually pretty rad.
haha thanks! Interesting that Shimano has started saying that. When these launched they were touted as having exactly the same power, maybe you were looking at MT420s? The EV spec would definitely be a nice feature to have...
@@DaleStone Mt420 are supposed to be 90%the power of the MT520. That's stated on their official website. And while the MT520 do feel like any other brake above it, the MT420 are indeed weaker. Not sure if they use smaller pistons, but the small price difference to the MT520 is not worth it at all.
I am rocking the MT420 currently and they have been good. Would like the lever adjustment so eyeballing different levers but otherwise they have been good for me. I also don't ride nearly as hard as you do so that may be a factor.
I strongly dislike the shape of the 401 lever, and I've heard from a few people that its reliability is not great as well. The 420 calipers seem pretty good though!
@@DaleStone Yeah the levers are a bit long. I haven't had any issues to this point yet but I do have a new set of Hope brakes in my sights so these will hold me over until I pull the trigger.
I've had these brakes on my bike since I bought it in 2019. The only issue I had with them was a broken lever which was from a crash that would break any other lever. They're one of the few components on my bike that haven't broken or been upgraded. One thing that I can note is that I seem to not suffer from arm pump compared to my mate who runs a set of Codes (which he loves). I did upgrade the front rotor to a 203mm one from Shimano when my old Shimano rotors wore out which I think improved braking (it was a long time ago). Solid brakes!
Dale, thanks for the video. A little feedback: the music in the first part was a tiny bit too loud compared to your voice (imho). Best Mtb breakes in my opinion are the Magura Mt5 or even better the Shigura Mt5 (Shimano levers with Magura Mt5 Calipers) but I do not know if Magura is a thing outside of Europe. See you around!
Thanks for the feedback! I'll try to lower it for the next video. 🙂 Maguras are definitely quite a bit rarer here but they aren't too tough to find. Mostly MT7s though. I'm curious about Shigura too!
Well...I did have to replace one piston on my Shimano XT BR-M8120 4 Piston after some 4000 km because it started leaking oil and contaminated my pads and rotor. I might just try these MT520s on my ebike but I weigh in around 82kg and my ebike is on a heavy side at 27kg. I'm not really sure how that would go tho. 🤔🙃 And I really like your videos 👌👌 Greetings from Slovenia 🇸🇮 🙋♂
@@DaleStone I need something stronger more durable and heat resistant especially for my rear brake. Heat kills even sintered pads very fast on long steep downhill rides. One would think that those ICE tech rotors that came preinstalled would help. Yeah...no 🤣🤣
@@viperrules24 thank you. I checked those out now but the problem is that they don't have speed sensor magnet on them. I am searching for 220mm rotor with speed sensor magnet but I guess I'll have to brake less until I find one. or just send it 😂 😂
I weight 97kg, riding 26kg ebike. Running mt520 for 3 years overall, 2 years on ebike. Using 2x icetech freeza 203mm rotors and sintered pads, never had issues with them. Few years was using finned pads, now switched to non finned, as you mentioned can't see difference, only price is 2x lower 🙂 Btw switched levers to slx, only cuz of i spec ev mounts.
FYI the MT520 brake calipers are exactly the same as the Shimano Deore BR-M6120. I have them side by side and they are the same design and weigh exactly the same. The only difference is the paint finish. I believe the MT520's are intended to be paired with the cheaper 2-3 finger brake levers.
Codes are probably the most consistent brake on the market, including their consistently average performance. Why did SRAM decide that you have to squeeze as hard as you do to get them to work? 🙂
I own these brakes on one of my bikes. I appreciate their value proposition, but the brand is a bit of a let down in terms of keeping them running long term. There are no spare parts available - not pistons (which I cracked), not lever spares, no seals, o-rings or anything. If something stops working you throw it in the trash. I’ve seen a couple if these levers also become leaky because dirt can easily get trapped around the piston - damaging the seals, piston and lever body. Maybe they’re more reliable in non-dusty areas, but we ride in powdery dust almost all year round. Would like to see a shootout with some SRAM DB8 brakes.
Interesting. Around here it gets pretty dusty for 3 months of the year and I never found that to be an issue, but soil/rock composition makes quite a difference for abrasiveness I believe. Where are you riding? The DB8s are definitely interesting, and I'd be keen to try them for a longer term review.
MT420 comes with resin pistons, MT520 comes with ceramic, on the lever side MT501 and M6100 come with servo wave and none of the 3 levers the MT420 is available with do
No clue! I am just getting into the sport after living far too many years as a BC local and am trying to find my way around the thousands of products@@DaleStone
You need too test shigura brake, so mich power such less fatigue, these brakes are unbelievable. Everytime you pull em youre suprised by the Power. 10 out of 10 recommendation
How have you never had wandering bite point?! I have literally never NOT had wandering bite point with these, and that is across multiple sets and bleeds. Luckily wandering bite point doesn't bother me all that much though.
please someone tell me what the difference between thsese and the ones that say deore on them is .i have the 2 pot version of these. its annoying that you need a tool to adjust the lever andle and they arent the best, but they work ok. still much prefer slx. ALSO- not bombproof. one of mine was cracked and leaking. the blmt501 with the longer levers are proper bombproof
@@LEL7567-ABCDEF worse? maybe not as clean looking, but stronger. Plus, compatible with newer shifters. But if you don't need those particular upgrades, makes sense to go with older design.
TBH, I just bought br-m7120 bc of I like how it looks. If wouldn't br-mt520 or brm-6120 would have been the choose. (Price wasn't a factor, I was working in a bike shop.) BTW it's a sleeper.
Lol my idea of a budget brake is NOT 230 bucks, it's closer to 20-30 bucks for mt200's. Which are perfectly fine, even for an ebike, as long as you don't do any downhill. I been using them on my Giant Talon 27.5, built with tongschen tsdb2b 500w 48v and I rode all the xc trails around here in that configuration without any issues.
I know I know, they still do me well since I live in the flattest pancake country in the world ( Netherlands ). Biggest elevation difference on any of the trails in a 40km radius is about 130m in a 19.4km loop @@DaleStone Guess I should have watched the whole video before commenting, sorry for that. 4 pot brakes are somewhat of a given for any serious decent I'm told, if these are the cheapest 4 pot brakes which are from a reputable brand ( and hence reliable and consistent ) that's great. Still more expensive as I would hope of course, since I'm as budget oriented as possible ( I'm not the usual dentist or w/e lmao ). Mate of mine sometimes goes to Belgium ( Ardennen ), think when he looked for the best cheap brake he bought Hope 3's with V4 calipers. Pretty sure he paid less then the mt520 costs, but I can't say anything about their properties comparatively.
I agree that the bike industry in general is prohibitively expensive for a lot of people, and that's a real problem. I really wish there was something I could do about it, and review videos on products like these are where I feel I can make even a smidge of a difference. 🙂 Those are some impressively flat numbers, haha. Brake pads must last forever!
You could look up the routes there are on komoot, basically 3/4 of the country is as flat as a pancake. Sadly I live right at the edge of the flattest part, with the most hilly province being on the other side of the country. It's still nice to ride though, we got some tracks through the dunes where total elevation isn't high but it's constant up and down so you can still get a good workout. Last brake set on my older bike were the stock Giant MPH brakes it came with in the day, the guy replaced the pads once and I did it two times ( switching to metallic one's with new rotors ). I think those metallic pads have lasted five years so far. They should be replaced now, at least the front* brake is squealing like it's pure metal to metal. It's normal and understandable components cost more when you expect more from them, like getting you down a nasty downhill. Still not sure if MT520 are 'cheap', or if they really compare so favorable versus say those Hope Tech 3 V4's as I have no experience on either. Prices are already so low for XC bikes and parts, when you compare them with the crisis years. MT200's were either not available for a long time, or bought up by scalpers who let you pay triple or more. Guess that was also why I was a bit shocked mt520 for over 200 are considered 'best budget' / value. I was hoping the price drops which I been seeing at the low end xc were also happening elsewhere. @@DaleStone
They are definitely towards the on-off end of the spectrum, but precise control comes easily with practice (as is shown in some of the rock roll clips in this video).
Get the MT420 with proper pads and XT levers. It's a much better deal. Shimano claims "10%" more breaking between the 420 and 520 - but it's just marketing. I have ridden both and there is no difference. Once you pack the levers and pads - ending up with the same $ 230 - it's a much more controlable and, because of the better pads, much more powerful solution.
I don't disagree, but it's more faff for the average rider to buy things separately than one complete system. Once I'm done reviewing them as you can buy them I'll start working through mix and match kits, haha. 🙂
@@DaleStone most online retailers have the m6120 for ~110 usd. Msrp is at 150 but they seem to have been on perpetual markdown. We sell them at our shop for 125 a side.
@@DaleStone in Germany 6120 vs 520 is 145 vs 140 euros. However they both are 4+2 pistons. 4+4 520 are 160 and 4+4 deores sold out. Guess, the main difference is what you can get right here right now, not what you want in particular performance-wise
Travelling a few hours to ride in Vancouver/lower mainland in a few weeks. Have ridden fromme/Seymour/thornhill/vedder. What other places would you recommend? We are thinking cypress and Burke/eagle or staying further out in the valley and doing sumas/woodlot. What would your choice be or would you recommend other areas?
@@DaleStone Did Squamish a year ago and would go back in a heartbeat. We’re coming from the interior and the plan for this trip is to just stick around Vancouver/valley and trying new places. Thanks for comment
I've not tried the MT5s, but I've tried the MT7s and I definitely think these are a better brake at a better price. If the MT5s are as good as the MT7s then I still think the same thing!
Shimano is such a great company making great products at every price point…but honestly if it wasn’t for the MTB snob factor everyone would be using Deore or these non level named sets because they just work. I’ve tried every level and prefer Deore, cost/performance is the roof!
@@DaleStone I never heard that, but the manufacturing sectors in Asia take advantage of cheap labor like every other company…unfortunate on the workers.
I've been really enjoying making these review videos recently, what would you like to see reviewed next? Curries, suspension, flags, anything. 👇
It'd be interesting to see a couple different dropper post options (high end and low end)
Would love to see your opinions on the Tektro Orion 4p Brakes. I just got some and they seem good for the price even with 180 rotors.
Honestly I haven't heard of that model before, I'll do some research!
how about that beastmaster giga max 9000?
Cranks. Right now I'm upgrading to shorter cranks, and these Hope sets cost an arm and a leg. Fortunately, I know Hope makes an extremely high-quality product in lots of awesome colors, which is the most important thing for me after safety. I've heard very good things about the relatively affordable Canfield cranksets, but they lack the colors. If there's a high-quality, affordable set out there in fun colors, I'd be very interested. In fact, I'd be interested in high-quality, relatively affordable, anodized components generally.
Dale Stone over here channeling his inner Doug Demuro. 😆
It's a well-honed formula that works.
So glad this is the top comment! I was like Quirks & Features?lol
Just waiting for Dale's new website 'Bikes and Bids'
Shimano's entry level 4 piston brakes is all you need even for a 50lb ebike. I have a Trek Rail and it came with Shimano M6100 series 4 piston brakes. A very basic hack that I did to improve braking power was to upgrade from a 200mm rotor to a 220mm rotor and replaced the factory brake pads to MTX red label pads. Braking power was improved significantly and most important, modulation was increased. Also 220mm rotors dissipates more heat than a 200mm rotor that has less material that heat can be transferred to.
They are pretty much the same as the MT520 but in a different skin. The M6120 brakes look nicer IMO
I have the same brakes on my Rail, and if anything they're better than the SLX M7100/20 I recently put on my rigid XC bike.
another often overlooked hack is to get rotors which are also thicker
@@billydeewilliams8909 I use Galfer 223mm x 2.0mm rotors. More surface area and thickness to extract heat from the brake pads which translates to less brake fade.
@@viperrules24all the four pot Shimano callipers are pretty well the “same” the big differences across the lineup is the lever as you move up the range.
Great review Dale. Norco shipped my 2020 Sight with a set of 420's, and they are now the only component on my bike that hasn't been replaced or upgraded. Given that I weigh a little more than two of you and I've never had issues with insufficient power or fade, I'd have to say I'm a huge fan and testament to non-series Shimano brakes.
Thanks Wes, and that's awesome! The 420 caliper is very similar to the 520 I believe. The price difference happens more on the lever side, where I don't love the lever shape and lack of adjustment on the 401. Power for days though no doubt! 🙂
Do these have any more adjustment like bite point ? Or the same as 420
The MT420s lack the ceramic pistons. According to an article on BikeRumor, AASQ #92, a Shimano rep claimed that ceramic pistons were a big game changer in brake performance, in terms of stick piston issues.
Awesome review as usual.
And the trails you ride, and your skill are next level.
I love this content, Dale. You are a great presenter.
These brakes are fantastic. They came stock on my norco range ebike and i upgraded them with galfer purple pads and galfer rotors. They have all the feel and performance of the higher end options but are kind of a ‘sleeper’ with how people may not even know what they are or that they exist.
100% a sleeper, great word to describe them.
I have not commented in a while on the channel but props to you Dale for going in front of camera. I recall a time you were timid to. Your mom would be proud.
haha thanks, she hopefully is! And I wouldn't use the word timid, but focused on keeping content raw previously. 🙂
"The Dale Scale" has got to be the best evaluation method name ever!
Liking the new approach to your vids, DS. I have been wanting to learn more about the 'Three MTBusakteers' views on parts and bike maintenance suggestions.
only problem here: Your voice inspires so much trust that I believe anything.
Just imagine I had a posh British accent too... 🎩
Thank god to hear I'm not the only one suffering from the self-contaminating Shimano brakes, thought I was going crazy.. Storing bikes at any angle in fluctuating temperatures is a recipe for failing brakes in my book
If your bike comes with MT420 calipers, change the levers out to SLX and add some M4 grub screws and you're golden 😎
The magic formula, I don't disagree. 🧙♂️
I have mt420 and eyeing for SLX lever as an upgrade or should I choose deore levers ispec ev instead?
@@phil5073 I'd get the SLX ispec ev levers for the ease of adjustment and ability to modify the lever with M4 grub screws to obtain free stroke adjustment 😎
Personally I don't see the appeal of the free stroke adjustment screw (and find it's usually a placebo, haha). But SLX is nicer if the budget allows!
Thumbs up 👍🏻... in Germany the complete XT Breakset BR-M8120 is available at 229,95 Euro (new)
This a great value, too 😊✌🏼
Certainly a good price for XT, but I'd argue that other than weight they don't add much over Deore!
@@DaleStone only small features (I like) 😎
I have these exact brakes on my Giant Trance X, and can confirm they are some awesome brakes! Way more stopping power than I expected to have, so haven't even bothered looking for an upgraded pair yet.
I've been exclusively using 420/520s for a little while now, I'll buy the calipers a la carte and pair them with XT or SLX levers which comes out to ~230 as well. Feels identical to an XT set at half the price. Interesting to see a back to back comparison with a set that costs 500% more!
Yep, same…great combos
I had m520 snapped on me when braking on parking lot from 5 mph. Front wheel. Scary stuff.
@@mac16a what snapped? The actual caliper or the brake lever?
@@50whatnomadtravelnursemtb5 caliper eyelet. Sounded like a gunshot. Replaced under warranty, but I'm not as brave on the descents as I was before.
@@mac16a that’s crazy never heard of that happening before, was it loose?
Great video Dale 🤟
I love shimano brakes! I've had thease brakes (520), the deore (6120) and the slx (7120) and they all preformed identically. Very consistent and powerful. I would absolutely recommend them to any and all riders.
Wholeheartedly agree with this review as I have bled a lot of brakes over the years. The MT520s are “set em and forget em”. XT/XTR and even Saint have had the maddening bite point issue for me… but not the lowly 520s, go figure!
The 420s fit icetec pads, and either with a set of xt levers are an absolute hack for inexpensive brakes with awesome performance.
Agreed!
I think anyone who has doubt about the performance of this brake should just watch tons of your ride videos when you were on it to get rid of the doubt, as simple as that.
haha, agreed! 🙂
"extremely average" is one of the best lines that Iwill now forever use
If someone offered me any HOPE, SRAM, MAGURA or these, I'd take these 100%. Ease to bleed, power, lever feel, pad availability.
You just upgraded your editing and video making quality again!
Absolutely loving these brake reviews. I would really like to see other components reviewed using the same Dale 'Demuro' scoring method too.
That's the plan! But as it turns out I have a bit of recent, hopefully interesting brake experience haha. More stuff soon!
Great review and the first one that mentions the leaking Shimano calipers. I had one set of MT520 and they started leaking at calipers after first ride when bike was left in storage for few weeks (both wheels on the ground) and ruined my brake pads. Brakes were under a warranty so I got a replacement set from Shimano but both of the new ones were leaking in their factory box when opened it so my confidence in MT520 and Shimano brakes has gone for now. I just can't have brakes in my bike that may or may not work when I grab my bike for a ride. My previous brakes were Shimano Zees and those leaked also from calipers when the bike was left unused for a while. I warrantied those also and sold the new warrantied brakes to my friend and got the MT520 to find out that they are leaking also. My friend used the Zees for few months and they also started leaking from calipers. My local bike shop told me they have had some bikes with Shimano brakes (especially Zees) that have leaked on the shop floor and they have had to replace those under warranty. I really like Shimano brakes for their performance and the easy bleeding but waiting for some new design from them that would solve the leaking calipers. Now riding Sram Code RSCs and they are ok but not great (one lever was leaking when new but the replacement has been ok for few years now). Maybe Magura MT7 next, waiting for your review on those and your findings on the reliability and ease of bleeding/setup (some have complained that it's hard to get them setup without pads dragging).
We watched your video with the Intend brakes. That company looks to be putting out some fantastic stuff. I really like the look of their upside down forks, but I always liked the Lefty. We just bought some MT5's for the new season. Can't wait to try them out.
These came on my Slash 7 and they were great for local trails. They couldn't really keep up on bike park days (Whistler hot lap sessions) But otherwise for the average shmuck these offer great value. A set of decent pads is a real boost too!
Awesome review Dale! These with Galfer Wave 2mm rotors and Mtx pads are pure bliss on my Ripmo AF.
Imo, feel is the most important part of the brake system. It will definitely relieve your wrist from arm pumps or makes it worst. Most brakes 4 piston are good now. You'll just need good brake pads and good thick rotor.
Feel is definitely a big factor, but personal preferences are a hard thing to rate as an individual haha. There's still quite a bit of deviation within the 4 piston market too!
A really helpful and pro-spec video, thanks.
I never had problems with the MT520s I ran on my hard-pressed trail bike, but the MT501 levers experienced total piston failure about four times in two years. In fact, after one really hot night in my garage both levers failed together. Shimano were good and replaced them, but strange all the same. The rear needed bleeding about every 2-3 months (350ish miles). Anyway, cool story over.
That's definitely disappointing. I've left my bike in my black car on more than a few hot summer days and have never had any issues. Performance has changed with temperature but never to the point of failure thankfully.
They came on my 2022 Scott Genius, and have been amazing... simple and effective. I'm 168 lbs and they have more than enough power and modulation for me. I recently purchased a set of Code RSC because I got a great deal on them, but Im skeptical about putting them on the bike since these shimano's have been so good. We'll see
The Codes will likely be even more consistent, but you'll have to pull the levers harder to get the same bite.
Thanks for the heads up! @@DaleStone
These are my goto brakes for bike builds. Price/performance cant be beat. I am a shimano guy as i like my brakes to feel the same across my bike stable. Ive got the 520, deore 4 pot, slx 4 pot, and xt 4 pot. Cant tell a difference between them on the trail. They lack the extras of slx and up, but those dont matter to me. Once i set the lever reach, its done. Tooless doesnt matter to me. The banjo at the caliper is nice but i can live with out it.
This person gets it.
@DaleStone I also use Microshift Advent X as my drive train as well. Lighter than XT 12 spd, and the entire thing can be had for not much more than an XT cassette. I take those savings from the brakes and drive train and put it into wheels and suspension where you do since bigger returns on your dollars.
As someone who store my bike hanging from the front wheel, as well as owning Shimano brakes I may need to give your theory some evaluation. After the first winter(long period of time just hanging on the wall) the brakes felt like garbage, just no bite at all. I just chafed the pads on some sandpaper, and gave it another go. They've just gradually become better, but far from great.
I know some people manage to push their piston(s) in at an angle which often cause damage and even crack the piston(s) if they are the ceramic kind. Personally I only use a tool that push pistons on either side in with an even and straight push so I haven't really considered my calipers to be leaking.
I am going to fully serve them before the season start and I will be changing pads at least anyhow, so I'll just have a closer look at things when that time comes(no season here until early June so no hurry...)
Curious to hear what you find! For me it has definitely not been cracked pistons since these brakes have metal ones (I have cracked XTR pistons before..). It might be something that neither of us expect too! 🙂
I’ve had a similar issue with my trp trail evo brakes. first set i’ve ever had issues with contamination while inverted, but it is a similar slow leak around the pistons. only in the rear, adding to the confusion.
Another great review video Dale. Your exceptional presentation ability combined with your equal (greater?) skill on a bike combined still further with your mechanical knowledge (you are an engineer after all!) make you a natural for this type of content. I would consider your opinions to be broadly reliable for all but the nichiest of riders. Now to check my bike for what type of brakes I have… I don’t even know, but I think it’s these lol!
Thanks Nick! Hopefully with more time and iterations these videos will improve to meet my expectations, haha.
@@DaleStoneturns out SLX.
I got them on my trailbike for more than 2 years. After a crash i had to replace the lever and chose a xtr. At my 120 kg I never had to be skeptical on performance, but I have to say that I really can´t use more than 50% of my gripstrength. Last year when I needed to make a service caused by dirty pads and disc, I discovered a little damage at one of the ceramic pistons. And found a more hidden one, too. You can´t replace those, so I needed a new one and decided for another one of the 520s to use less gripstrenght in a more relaxed handposition. But I agree with your opinion. They are worth a try.
For future reference, You can definitely replace cracked pistons.
@@joshuaallswang8016 I have not found good replacement pistons for the mt520 caliper. Those which I found weren´t cheap and probably wouldn´t fit.
I just picked up the Slx 4 piston for 200 for a full set and I’ve been thrilled
Great deal!
I think we got ours from the same supplier. 😃 I only needed a rear brake, but for $110 the 7120s were a no brainer for sure!
@@playgroundchooser yeah! It was such a good price almost though it was a scam lol
Thanks Dale , was looking for something comparable to my Zee’s for my hard tail . Great review and wicked riding !!
These brakes came on my Ebike. They’re phenomenal. If you don’t mind they don’t have the bells and whistles and just want stopping power, then you won’t go far wrong.
Love the reviews. My Optic came with the 420s with metallic pads and they’ve been very reliable. I hated the lever’s and picked up the 520 ones cheap and they are great fit Ontario riding.
I hang my bike from the front tire and haven’t had any leaks yet over the last three years. Hope it doesn’t start now 😂.
420 calipers with 501 levers is indeed the ultimate budget solution, it's just a shame they aren't sold as a set!
Fingers crossed my leak theory remains a theory, though I don't know what else could cause the contamination...
Sooo best budget combo will be M6100 lever + MT520 caliper - due to I-Spec EV clamp with its offset mounting.
Fully agreed, and it's a shame you can't purchase that as a complete option!
I like BR-MT420 more because it has phenolic pistons when BR-MT520 has ceramic pistons which can to crack.
Great review with heaps of useful information. I've noticed the same contamination problem with my Stance, which came with 520s I think. Have never been able to fix it, and it did this from new. I have just recently upgraded my other bike to Deore 4 piston brakes, which I think are the branded version of the 520 and very similar if not almost identical. What a difference, can go much faster downhill now :-) BTW there are 3rd party adapters for mounting SRAM onto Shimano.
A clean brake is indeed a good brake, haha. 🙂
The problem different is the price in Asia you can buy deore group set
For the same price I'd definitely get the Deore for the shifter compatibility.
These reviews are great! I had a set of these unfortunately I had nothing but wondering bite point. Still can't deny the price to performance of these. Love the video. I hope you do lewis lh4 brakes next!
Interesting, I've experienced the wander on most levels above these, but not actually these.
LH4 definitely won't be next but hopefully sooner than later! 🤘🏻
Sick can't wait 🤙🤙🤙🤙
These are really good but I do prefer the trp slate t4 and the price is very similar.
Really enjoying your reviews!
I just realized my ideal spec is a bike where every component is the equivalent to this brake in their categories, including this brake. 😜
With enough reviews we shall narrow down the optimal Steve Bike™. I may have to copyright that... Haha
I'm running shimano zee Brakes, they're about the same price. I didn't have any issues with these as well but they seem very similar to the 520s, except they look more like saints and are branded.
Great deal at the same price!
Love these review videos Dale! I'd give these a go on a trail bike for sure! I love how my cheaper Shimano brakes feel the same as my XTRs! Seth
Thanks Seth, and same!
I have Shimano MT520, Deore M6120, 2x Zee, and XT M8120 brakes. Only my XT brakes have wandering bite point. Whatever "improvements" Shimano added to their latest XT and XTR brakes have clearly made the issue worse.
Loving your content. It appears you’re a fellow Vancouverite? Looking fwd to more component reviews, namely the high end stuff.
Honestly, all you need to maximize braking would be bigger rotors. I been riding on SLX brake set with 223/203 rotors now for about 2 years. I'm over 200lbs and ride red trails with no worrying on brakes. Those other high end components are probably well above of our capabilities. MT 520 👍
Increasing rotor size is an excellent way to get more power from the same brake, but in some cases it's just a bandage fix for poor design! At your weight 223/203 is definitely the ticket on steep stuff though.
These came standard on my Scott ransom in 2019; I think they were the first component I upgraded on that bike, after they gave me issues in bikeparks with overheating twice.
Tried different pads, bigger discs,bled them , problems arose again. It was always after around 200m of descent, and before a sharp turn where i had to brake hard. I was able to pull BOTH of the levers almost completely to the handlebar, scared me shitless😅
I weigh around 85kg so I’m not super heavy. Switched to saints and pretty happy with them since.
That's definitely terrifying.
Nice series man! Good behind and in front of the camera ;) The MT520 hardly lack (if at all) any braking power in comparison to the Deore, Slx, XT/XTR Lineup. Shimano states they have around 10% less power than their named lineup but I cannot agree. They do feel a little different on the lever side (no added bumps), but overall are pretty much the same as the M-x120 4 piston brakes. I used to run them with Trickstuff Powerpads and rotors. The only downside for me was I-Spec2. EV is just so much cleaner on the cockpit. The looks of the lever and caliper only saying Shimano is actually pretty rad.
haha thanks! Interesting that Shimano has started saying that. When these launched they were touted as having exactly the same power, maybe you were looking at MT420s? The EV spec would definitely be a nice feature to have...
@@DaleStone Mt420 are supposed to be 90%the power of the MT520. That's stated on their official website. And while the MT520 do feel like any other brake above it, the MT420 are indeed weaker. Not sure if they use smaller pistons, but the small price difference to the MT520 is not worth it at all.
Dale DeMuro
I am rocking the MT420 currently and they have been good. Would like the lever adjustment so eyeballing different levers but otherwise they have been good for me. I also don't ride nearly as hard as you do so that may be a factor.
I strongly dislike the shape of the 401 lever, and I've heard from a few people that its reliability is not great as well. The 420 calipers seem pretty good though!
@@DaleStone Yeah the levers are a bit long. I haven't had any issues to this point yet but I do have a new set of Hope brakes in my sights so these will hold me over until I pull the trigger.
these are the same thing as 4 piston deores, just without the label. great stopping power, great lever feel, fantastic reliability
didn't expect doug demuro of the mtb world but i'm all for it
Now hold on, so is this Doug DeMuro but for bike parts?
Sign me up haha
I've had these brakes on my bike since I bought it in 2019. The only issue I had with them was a broken lever which was from a crash that would break any other lever. They're one of the few components on my bike that haven't broken or been upgraded. One thing that I can note is that I seem to not suffer from arm pump compared to my mate who runs a set of Codes (which he loves). I did upgrade the front rotor to a 203mm one from Shimano when my old Shimano rotors wore out which I think improved braking (it was a long time ago). Solid brakes!
These brakes are very good at reducing rider fatigue, which is a fantastic and under-recognized benefit!
Dale, thanks for the video. A little feedback: the music in the first part was a tiny bit too loud compared to your voice (imho). Best Mtb breakes in my opinion are the Magura Mt5 or even better the Shigura Mt5 (Shimano levers with Magura Mt5 Calipers) but I do not know if Magura is a thing outside of Europe. See you around!
Thanks for the feedback! I'll try to lower it for the next video. 🙂
Maguras are definitely quite a bit rarer here but they aren't too tough to find. Mostly MT7s though. I'm curious about Shigura too!
Well...I did have to replace one piston on my Shimano XT BR-M8120 4 Piston after some 4000 km because it started leaking oil and contaminated my pads and rotor. I might just try these MT520s on my ebike but I weigh in around 82kg and my ebike is on a heavy side at 27kg. I'm not really sure how that would go tho. 🤔🙃 And I really like your videos 👌👌 Greetings from Slovenia 🇸🇮 🙋♂
In terms of performance, it'll go exactly as well as XT has been going haha. Good luck!
@@DaleStone I need something stronger more durable and heat resistant especially for my rear brake. Heat kills even sintered pads very fast on long steep downhill rides. One would think that those ICE tech rotors that came preinstalled would help. Yeah...no 🤣🤣
@@robertk.. You can try a larger rotor, or one that is thicker like the SRAM HS2 at 2mm or the TRP TR42 at 2.3mm. It should help with fade a bit
@@viperrules24 thank you. I checked those out now but the problem is that they don't have speed sensor magnet on them. I am searching for 220mm rotor with speed sensor magnet but I guess I'll have to brake less until I find one. or just send it 😂 😂
I weight 97kg, riding 26kg ebike. Running mt520 for 3 years overall, 2 years on ebike. Using 2x icetech freeza 203mm rotors and sintered pads, never had issues with them. Few years was using finned pads, now switched to non finned, as you mentioned can't see difference, only price is 2x lower 🙂 Btw switched levers to slx, only cuz of i spec ev mounts.
FYI the MT520 brake calipers are exactly the same as the Shimano Deore BR-M6120. I have them side by side and they are the same design and weigh exactly the same. The only difference is the paint finish. I believe the MT520's are intended to be paired with the cheaper 2-3 finger brake levers.
The first part may be correct, but the MT501 levers have (basically) the same ergonomics as the named series levers.
I found a set of deore m6100 brakes for $70 on PB. They come with 2 piston calipers but has more than enough power for my trail bike.
That's a steal for that price! 🙌🏻
I have those on my main mtb bike. Just bled them and they are feeling incredible. Ive been mtbing for 33 years and these work fine for me.
I LOVE THESE REVIEWS!
Shim-anno, Shim-onno, potatoe-potatto....LOL :-] Great video review. I ride Hayes A4's, freaking LOVE THEM
i run mt-510 for wheelies and their soo good and snappy
I now ride code r brakes for 2.5 jears and once you know how to bleed them they are bombproof i ride hard with no issues whatsoever i love them🤘
Codes are probably the most consistent brake on the market, including their consistently average performance. Why did SRAM decide that you have to squeeze as hard as you do to get them to work? 🙂
I own these brakes on one of my bikes. I appreciate their value proposition, but the brand is a bit of a let down in terms of keeping them running long term. There are no spare parts available - not pistons (which I cracked), not lever spares, no seals, o-rings or anything. If something stops working you throw it in the trash. I’ve seen a couple if these levers also become leaky because dirt can easily get trapped around the piston - damaging the seals, piston and lever body. Maybe they’re more reliable in non-dusty areas, but we ride in powdery dust almost all year round.
Would like to see a shootout with some SRAM DB8 brakes.
Interesting. Around here it gets pretty dusty for 3 months of the year and I never found that to be an issue, but soil/rock composition makes quite a difference for abrasiveness I believe. Where are you riding?
The DB8s are definitely interesting, and I'd be keen to try them for a longer term review.
Have the MT420s on my Range VLT. Really wish they came with 520s instead. Lever blades are gross. Both still solid brakes.
Yep. The calipers are totally fine, it's the levers that break the deal.
What are the differences between the MT520's and the MT420's? Great video dude. Thanks for the info.
Mostly lever shape, lack of adjustability and ispec EV I believe.
@@DaleStone Great my next question is if I put m6100 brake levers on Mt420's would the features of this brake lever work with the 420 calipers?
I haven't tested it but I don't see why not!
MT420 comes with resin pistons, MT520 comes with ceramic, on the lever side MT501 and M6100 come with servo wave and none of the 3 levers the MT420 is available with do
From the most expensive to the cheapest!
I've been told the shimano Deore M5120 use the old zee calipers. Great deals if you compare them to overpriced xtr's.
Just found your channel! I love the reviews, would love to see a value drivetrain!
Which one? There are a few these days!
No clue! I am just getting into the sport after living far too many years as a BC local and am trying to find my way around the thousands of products@@DaleStone
You need too test shigura brake, so mich power such less fatigue, these brakes are unbelievable. Everytime you pull em youre suprised by the Power.
10 out of 10 recommendation
How have you never had wandering bite point?! I have literally never NOT had wandering bite point with these, and that is across multiple sets and bleeds. Luckily wandering bite point doesn't bother me all that much though.
On the 520s? Interesting! I've had plenty of wandering on XT and XTR, but amazingly not these... 🤔
@@DaleStone XT is the only Shimano brake I've ever had that didn't wander.
Quirks & Features, That's good, You should Trademark that.
😂
I've been liking 4 pot Sram Guide e bike brake. Got them for $95 usd each. I like that sram has more modulation.
Can't say our preferences align haha, but that's a great deal!
I would add that if the lever flex bothers you, bumping up to the new Deore M6120 with the fancy master is worth the money.
You've had lever flex on these?? That seems wild to me, haha.
@@DaleStone I’m ~90kg and make the odd bad decision lol
not the focus of the video but damn your trails are mind blowing, wanna trade with Quebec?
indeed it's performance is incredible !
please someone tell me what the difference between thsese and the ones that say deore on them is .i have the 2 pot version of these. its annoying that you need a tool to adjust the lever andle and they arent the best, but they work ok. still much prefer slx. ALSO- not bombproof. one of mine was cracked and leaking. the blmt501 with the longer levers are proper bombproof
Main thing is the lever clamp: deore 6100 is offset and has an additional supporting stump. 501 is like previous gen deore 6000.
@@feedbackzaloop oh yeah. i saw tey changed the clamps on the newest ones to be worse imo
@@LEL7567-ABCDEF worse? maybe not as clean looking, but stronger. Plus, compatible with newer shifters. But if you don't need those particular upgrades, makes sense to go with older design.
This is exactly it. If you don't need direct mount shifter compatibility, go with these. If you do, go Deore.
TBH, I just bought br-m7120 bc of I like how it looks. If wouldn't br-mt520 or brm-6120 would have been the choose. (Price wasn't a factor, I was working in a bike shop.)
BTW it's a sleeper.
Mega sleeper, like the Plaidessey. 😆
@@DaleStone There's another sleeper on the market. Have you noticed the sram db8?
I've definitely noticed it, but they are very rare in the wild here.
@@DaleStone Even better, exotic. :D
Lol my idea of a budget brake is NOT 230 bucks, it's closer to 20-30 bucks for mt200's.
Which are perfectly fine, even for an ebike, as long as you don't do any downhill. I been using them on my Giant Talon 27.5, built with tongschen tsdb2b 500w 48v and I rode all the xc trails around here in that configuration without any issues.
"as long as you don't do any downhill" kind of disqualifies them from being on this channel, lol.
I know I know, they still do me well since I live in the flattest pancake country in the world ( Netherlands ).
Biggest elevation difference on any of the trails in a 40km radius is about 130m in a 19.4km loop @@DaleStone
Guess I should have watched the whole video before commenting, sorry for that. 4 pot brakes are somewhat of a given for any serious decent I'm told, if these are the cheapest 4 pot brakes which are from a reputable brand ( and hence reliable and consistent ) that's great. Still more expensive as I would hope of course, since I'm as budget oriented as possible ( I'm not the usual dentist or w/e lmao ).
Mate of mine sometimes goes to Belgium ( Ardennen ), think when he looked for the best cheap brake he bought Hope 3's with V4 calipers. Pretty sure he paid less then the mt520 costs, but I can't say anything about their properties comparatively.
I agree that the bike industry in general is prohibitively expensive for a lot of people, and that's a real problem. I really wish there was something I could do about it, and review videos on products like these are where I feel I can make even a smidge of a difference. 🙂
Those are some impressively flat numbers, haha. Brake pads must last forever!
You could look up the routes there are on komoot, basically 3/4 of the country is as flat as a pancake. Sadly I live right at the edge of the flattest part, with the most hilly province being on the other side of the country.
It's still nice to ride though, we got some tracks through the dunes where total elevation isn't high but it's constant up and down so you can still get a good workout.
Last brake set on my older bike were the stock Giant MPH brakes it came with in the day, the guy replaced the pads once and I did it two times ( switching to metallic one's with new rotors ). I think those metallic pads have lasted five years so far.
They should be replaced now, at least the front* brake is squealing like it's pure metal to metal.
It's normal and understandable components cost more when you expect more from them, like getting you down a nasty downhill. Still not sure if MT520 are 'cheap', or if they really compare so favorable versus say those Hope Tech 3 V4's as I have no experience on either.
Prices are already so low for XC bikes and parts, when you compare them with the crisis years. MT200's were either not available for a long time, or bought up by scalpers who let you pay triple or more.
Guess that was also why I was a bit shocked mt520 for over 200 are considered 'best budget' / value. I was hoping the price drops which I been seeing at the low end xc were also happening elsewhere.
@@DaleStone
Ding indeed🤘
Me lovin Shimano long time…price isn’t too boocoo 🍻😂
I would argue that these are THE. MOST. core brake on the market it.
Dale that was a great review!!! what trail is that ? it looks amazing ❤🔥 great trail building 🔥
Lots of different trails featured here! 🙂
@@DaleStone around 6:55 or so, thanks
CBC
@@DaleStone Thank you !
Join the _Dale Stone space program_ now, your country needs you! 🚀
In terms of handling, how is the power delivery? Would you say they have good modulation or are they have that kinda on/off grabby feeling?
They are definitely towards the on-off end of the spectrum, but precise control comes easily with practice (as is shown in some of the rock roll clips in this video).
Get the MT420 with proper pads and XT levers. It's a much better deal. Shimano claims "10%" more breaking between the 420 and 520 - but it's just marketing. I have ridden both and there is no difference. Once you pack the levers and pads - ending up with the same $ 230 - it's a much more controlable and, because of the better pads, much more powerful solution.
I don't disagree, but it's more faff for the average rider to buy things separately than one complete system. Once I'm done reviewing them as you can buy them I'll start working through mix and match kits, haha. 🙂
520/69 - *so* close
'the more expensive your bike, the more important you must be as a human'
Put some trickstuff power pads and 223mm rotors on and these things will stop an airplane.
The deore brakes are the same caliper at the same price. Slightly different levers with I spec ev compatibility. Plus they’re shiny 🫨🫨
Where are you seeing them at $230 per complete set? If so, I agree!
@@DaleStone most online retailers have the m6120 for ~110 usd. Msrp is at 150 but they seem to have been on perpetual markdown. We sell them at our shop for 125 a side.
@jlcousineau I'm not seeing those prices online from Canada, but yeah that's a steal for EV compatibility. Nice!
@@DaleStone in Germany 6120 vs 520 is 145 vs 140 euros. However they both are 4+2 pistons. 4+4 520 are 160 and 4+4 deores sold out. Guess, the main difference is what you can get right here right now, not what you want in particular performance-wise
Travelling a few hours to ride in Vancouver/lower mainland in a few weeks. Have ridden fromme/Seymour/thornhill/vedder. What other places would you recommend? We are thinking cypress and Burke/eagle or staying further out in the valley and doing sumas/woodlot. What would your choice be or would you recommend other areas?
Squamish for sure. Sumas is the least fun of the 4 you mentioned IMO.
@@DaleStone Did Squamish a year ago and would go back in a heartbeat. We’re coming from the interior and the plan for this trip is to just stick around Vancouver/valley and trying new places. Thanks for comment
That seems expensive, considering you can get a set of mt5 maguras with rotos for around 140€
I've not tried the MT5s, but I've tried the MT7s and I definitely think these are a better brake at a better price. If the MT5s are as good as the MT7s then I still think the same thing!
I'm currently using a 2 piston Deore M6100, would it be better if I changed the calipers to a 4 piston MT520?
Different intended use, so difficult to answer!
first time here...is this doug demuro for bikes? :))
Shimano is such a great company making great products at every price point…but honestly if it wasn’t for the MTB snob factor everyone would be using Deore or these non level named sets because they just work. I’ve tried every level and prefer Deore, cost/performance is the roof!
I agree with everything except the great company part, given some of the recent headlines around their workers.
@@DaleStone I never heard that, but the manufacturing sectors in Asia take advantage of cheap labor like every other company…unfortunate on the workers.
how about you do some video about shimano's cheap but reliable mt200? trail test etcetc
I've not tried them before, but typically 2 pistons don't cut it for the kind of riding you see in this video. Maybe someday though! 🙂
Only weakness is the weak clamp. Broke it three times already. The old and newest design of shimano clamps are sturdier.