February 06, 2012, 04:06:15 AM

Author Topic: Formula K-18's  (Read 616 times)

Offline Coreman

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Formula K-18's
« on: April 25, 2009, 09:01:19 PM »
For a light and minimalistic hydraulic brake, these seem to do the job.
Mine were set up on a SS.
I wanted light. They are.
I wanted minimum material/mass. They are.
I wanted good modulation and to feel really "connected" to the wheels. Yep.
All in all, these brakes are nice and the matching rotors are well designed for consistency and heat dispersion.
Just gotta get rid of the front brake's noises. It might be the break-in period.
Only 6 rides on them so far, so it will probably take at least 6 more before they settle in.
Otherwise, very happy with them.
8 out of 10


The bitterness of poor workmanship remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten...

Offline Coreman

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Re: Formula K-18's
« Reply #1 on: January 10, 2010, 10:15:42 PM »
...With many more miles on 'em and now the cold cold weather,
these brakes are fantastic.
Despite the very low temps, performance is consistant, modulation is still very good, stopping power seems to be the same as in warmer temps.
Some of my other hydro brakes fade now and then...depending upon conditions.
The Formulas are very satisfying and effective.
Is anybody else using these?
The bitterness of poor workmanship remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten...

Offline Coreman

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Re: Formula K-18's
« Reply #2 on: November 15, 2010, 08:28:03 PM »
My front brake noise problems are gone.
Turns out that there was a "resonant" aspect to the noises due to the interactions of pads, rotor, fork..combined to create an oscillation that was horrific at times.
A larger rotor, special formulation pads, and new caliper mount has made all the difference.
Went from a 160mm to 180mm rotor.
Apparently larger rotors are preferred for 29'rs according to a tech at HOPE (thank you HOPE dude!), and great tech support from FORMULA.
Now I can truly say: "These brakes rrrrrrock!!"
I'm very happy that the solution resulted in all OEM Formula parts. [No substitue brands or modifications.]
Thanks to all my knowledgeable bike buds who helped advise me...especially the "Llama".  :wink:
The bitterness of poor workmanship remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten...