Shimano Deore Brakes BR-M486 spongy/weak

[sinkas]

Hi All,
is there a known issue with these brakes?
I realise they are about 10 years old, but, bleeding and new pads and still cant get the bloody lever to feel anything other than vague and weak with a huge about of free play,
should I just get my local bike shop to have a go, or am I fighting a losing battle?

 

[moorey]

They’re getting on, but not a bad brake. The set i had were powerful enough for general use, but not the greatest lever feel.
What are you comparing them to?

 

[sinkas]

my wife has similar vintage Avid brakes and they feel 10x better

 

[moorey]

my wife has similar vintage juicy and they feel 10x better

Said one person ever....

 

[hifiandmtb]

^^^ Hahahahahaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Dales Cannon]

my wife has similar vintage juicy and they feel 10x better

I think I am reading this in a different context.

 

[moorey]

I think I am reading this in a different context.

You are awful...but I like you.
Just don’t mention @indica ’s wife’s stinky.

 

[Dales Cannon]

Edit is too late!

 

[ChrisJC]

My wife also has a set of vintage juicy’s. They haven’t been bled for about 8 years but are still quite firm and grabby!

 

[moorey]

My wife also has a set of vintage juicy’s. They haven’t been bled for about 8 years but are still quite firm and grabby!

I’m not sure where this is going, but she sounds like a keeper.

 

[The Duckmeister]

Check the hoses for any worn spots, as these would allow the hose to expand under pressure, giving a squishy feel.

Also ensure the calipers are properly aligned over the rotors. If they're off-square with the rotor they'll have to bend it as they're applied, also giving a squishy feel.

M486 (they're not Deore) aren't the most powerful brakes, but should have a decent lever feel.

 

[sinkas]

cant see any weak spots , ill give up I reckon, they are shite but not dangerous