Fitting the system is easy, the hoses can be trimmed to lengh very easily using a sturdy pair of sewing scissors. After fitting the hoses, it is then a case of bleeding the system (which is an absolute doddle with the hayes bleed kit), and then centralising the caliper by holding the brake on, then tightening the bolts.
The HFX-9 has adjustable lever reach via a small allen bolt and features a single master cylinder design, meaning that the left and right master cylinders are identical and can be swapped. My only minor complaint about the master cylinder is that it is a single-peice design, meaning that it requires removal of the grips to fit. The newer models have a 2-peice design. The Hayes tool-free pad removal system is a welcome feature of the caliper.
After a few rides to bed them in, the brakes really began to show their true colours. I've always thought of hydraulic systems as having an "on-off" feel, but the level of modulation is very impressive, even with the gigantic 203mm discs. The feel at the lever is ever so slightly spongy, but is something I can live with given the price level of the brakes.
Heat dissipation doesn't seem to be an issue for my style of riding (mostly freeride), and I haven't noticed any need to warm them up either. Performance is good from the start with no noticable fade.
All in all, these are good value for money, even brand new. They're a faithful old labrador in the world of mountain biking, and are not to be overlooked.
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Hayes HFX-9 Front Brake OEM Packed. Brakes Disc. Anti-rotation reach adjustment bushing. 2 ... more
piece master cylinder design for easy removal. Sintered metallic all-weather pad compound. Flip-flop design master cylinder allows lever to be mounted on either ...
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