Dart 3 29er and 180mm rotor

s4k1s

I'm in the process of upgrading my crappy shimano branded mechanical disk brakes 160mm/160mm of my Gary Fisher. I've decided to go for the SLX hydraulics 180mm/160mm. The problem is that at SRAM's site my bike's fork, the Dart 3 29", is rated for a max rotor size of 160mm. Is there gonna be any problem if I mount a 180mm shimano rotor at front?? I would appreciate any info especially from someone that has actually done this. Thanks in advance

cooldad

Could be a problem with the warranty if they break.

thel33ter

If the fork snaps, put a 160mm rotor on and say that's how it was.

Doubt it will though, an iffy front wheel landing will put much more force on it than a slightly bigger rotor. You may feel it flex a bit though, as it isn't a very stiff fork in the first place

s4k1s

Well idd I can already feel the flex even with my current 160mm rotor. The fork sucks big time, but my choices are slim, especially with that Fisher's G2 geometry with more offset. nvm though.. the new rotor is gonna be an XT one with really small weight difference compared to my current one. I hope the difference in the flex won't be noticeable..

thel33ter

You'll only notice it when braking hard. I'd keep an eye out for a SH G2 fork as your next upgrade.

cavegiant

Count yourself lucky you have a Dart, the total lack of control will mean you are unable to ride fast and therefore will not need to brake hard.

Be careful about upgrading the disk size. Darts are not only very flexy, they are prone to seizing when they twist. If you brake too hard, not only will the wheel twist, there is a change the front will lock out as well. This is not good as there was probably a reason you were braking hard in the first place!

On a plus side, Shimano brakes tend to be quite weak compared to most makes, so not as serious an issue as with a formula brake.

There are great deals out there on Manitou Drakes and RS Tora. You will notice the improvment more than a new brake.