Hayes Stroker trail Brakes problem

Hi, I bought a nearly new Marin Wolf Ridge, only riden twice before I got it.
It is fitted with Hayes Stroker trail brakes. Took bike out and went down hill but luckily took it easy with the unfamiliar bike. No brakes!!!!!!!! :shock: Pulled harder and harder on the leavers and they did very little. levers pulled as normal and did not collapse into handle bars or go unusually solid. However once the brakes heated up a while then they start to work much better but nothing like any of the reviews are telling me. I have degreased them as this is what it felt like was wrong. Adjusted the lever reach etc but it makes no difference. :? I have took it out quite a few times and had the same problem each time. I nearly have to do a mini downhill run to get them to heat up and work before i do anything proper. Very frustrating. Is this normal, if not is there a solution.
Sorry, i have tried to search for this but can't find anything.

Cheers.