Shimano MT200 & MT400 Upgrade Hack For Polygon, Vitus, Marin, and MORE

[@austindahmer1072]

It definitely works! Jared hooked me up with some deore levers to replacethe mt200 brakes on my occam. It was a night and day difference in the quality of braking power. Best part is it was only $60!!!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah you were the OG Guinea pig for this ultimate fix. 😂

[@Jacob99174]

Austin, Had you known, would you have gone right to Deore or higher set? Assuming everything was available and in stock

[@armandojuan64]

My MT200s work like a charm , they are paired with 180 mm discs . For my riding style and level , they are superb .

[@JaredRMorgan]

Hey, if it works for you…run them! Thanks for watching.

[@jacekkapela6754]

They are piece of junk. Stopping distance on MT200 i twice that of the Deore.

[@Sebastian-tm6ud]

@@jacekkapela6754 sounds like a skill issue

[@frank8278]

@@jacekkapela6754 i have both the Deore m6100 and the MT200 and i like the MT200 better :D

[@thomassrensen2141]

​@@jacekkapela6754 your Life must be one big challenge

[@MikeinCC]

I've always wondered this, and now I have confirmation! As far as the brakes go, the calipers are "dumb" and the lever/reservoirs are "smart". The calipers aren't magically connected to the levers, and as long as the system is properly bled, it has to work! Kudos for making this.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Glad you enjoyed it, and I'm also glad I was able to confirm that for you. Great minds think alike. It's a good little hack!

[@william_mtb_kramsanye]

I swapped two mt400 levers for an M6100 on the left and an SLX lever on the right. The amazon bleed kit definitely worked. Thanks for the video.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Heck yeah! Stoked to hear that! Feels great now I’m assuming. 🤘

[@realm313]

Thank you so much, upgraded my MT410's on a Kona Honzo w/ the Deore levers for $30 each, great upgrade!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yes indeed! So glad I could help! Enjoy!

[@iasha740]

To all the people which feel that their entry level brakes are not powerful enough THIS might help you a lot >>> I actually have similar brakes (tektro entry level) and they also have the same 2-3 finger lever and I also thaught they were trash. As the lever is made longer so more fingers can fit, it extends pretty far out to the sides and away from the handlebar too, so the amount of leverage you get when you place 2,3 fingers is minimal. In a two-three finger configuration your strongest finger (index) is in the worst leverage position it can be, which is the closest to the caliper (test it and you'll notice). If you take the brake and you slide it closer to the stem and you tune the lever to be closer to the handlebar in its resting position (hidden screw under the lever) in such a way that you can reach the outer-most part of the lever with your index finger, you end up with a brake which works pretty darn well with one finger braking. Remember than the closer to shut is your hand when you grab something, the greater the force you have. Not to the extent the lever is touching the handlebars when pressed, but close enough so you get maximum power. [Yes, you can adjust the reach of your brakes, is a simple screw not as fancy as the top of the line brakes and not as promoted but is there]. I'll go further and say that the biggest game changer in brakes is not actually the levers as to say the whole lever + oil reservoir, it is simply the lever itself; that chunk of metal you pull. Just look at the shape of the better brakes by shimano/sram, they are made so you can exort maximum pressure with the index finger.

[@JaredRMorgan]

🫡🫡🫡

[@bisikleta1015]

This works. I have used both m6100 levers and now XT while still using the cheap mt200 caliper. Lucky me topping off works without bleed.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Very nice! Yeah sometimes the top bleed works...sometimes not.

[@serolog2]

I sorta wish you went into more detail as to what "crappy brakes" actually mean from a rider's perspective. Then there is also the cost considerations: For most budget setups, for which MT200 is designed, going over that price point simply doesn't make sense. It's like putting a fur coat on a ho ker

[@JaredRMorgan]

They're not optimized for 1 finger braking, which in my mind is necessary for adequate control over and MTB. The lever pull is a bit numb as well, the better levers have a definitive bite point from having more sophisticated master cylinders. As for your last statement, simply no. lmao.

[@BMH1965]

Fitting better levers will help but the basic system is still mostly binary (ON/OFF). I bought the Hope Tech E4 system - modulation to perfection.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Very nice! 👍

[@snbsmtb]

Sick video Jared. That is a great hack for making your breaks feel expedential better

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah we’ve done it to 3 different applications so far and it’s been the same successful result. I’ve spoke with other bike shops who have conducted this experiment as well. 👍

[@underbikedoverconfident1142]

I always wondered if this worked but didn't want to spend the money to find out. Thanks!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Same here. We did it on 3 bikes successfully before posting a video. I’d still call it a hack, but it totally works.

[@underbikedoverconfident1142]

@@JaredRMorgan I'm glad you did! I knew you could do this with deore and up (Shimano openly state it) but I've seen advice from internet randoms that this would work. Thank you for posting this video! It's nice to know even if I buy a bigger front brake as a complete unit I can swap out the rear lever to match.

[@KeosAdventures]

Also nice to be able to use I-spec integration, nicely done!

[@JaredRMorgan]

That’s a very good point. 🙏 Thanks for watching!

[@glitchman3194]

Definitely going to do this asap. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy the ride

[@JaredRMorgan]

Stoked for you! It's a major league improvement for minimal cash.

[@RicardoCooper]

Did you also compare the lines to ensure they were the exact same? Its possible the other breaks perform better because the lines are smaller in internal diameter.

[@JaredRMorgan]

I've never concerned myself with the specs of the lines. I'm sure it's not how Shimano wants it setup, but it works well. I've had bikes setup that way run well for years on end before selling the bike.

[@RCExpedice]

I also replaced only the levers with BL-MT501 and I can brake with two fingers. With the original levers I had to take 4 fingers on the handlebars to brake at all.

[@JaredRMorgan]

There ya go! Love to hear it, and I'm glad the hack worked for you as well.

[@salmanshami]

Nice video but the MT200 and MT400 brakes don't suck at all. They are pretty good brakes for the money. I can't imagine a situation unless you are going on steep downhill terrain where these brakes wouldn't work.

[@JaredRMorgan]

All a matter of opinion I guess!

[@fulldonkeymode8837]

@@JaredRMorgan Especially since it's your wife's bike unless your wife weighs like a man :) My missus is ~58kg geared and she can flip over the front (and has on flat ground) just using the front MT200. They definitely do not suck bro but I know this is for content

[@lastfm4477]

@@fulldonkeymode8837 Sounds like what she has is poor modulation. Sounds like she has ON/OFF with her brakes.

[@therealtechfromheaven]

I've used Tektro Novela for very steep stuff so I don't mind the MT200 not having "enough power" 😂

[@Benri05]

Especially that you can get these things brand new for like $40, like no shit $200 brakes are better lol

[@michaeld2031]

Great Video! Just finished doing this hack with 6100 Levers and it was super smooth (First time!)

[@JaredRMorgan]

Great job! Hope you love it!

[@mtbtrack4716]

Good to know that the levers really make a difference. I had changed my rotors to use metalic pads, and upgrading to a 203mm rotor at the front. I do have noticed a difference at the front but not too much at rear, specially because my rear lever is not working well (after a crash last year, sometimes the circlip still came off time to time) and the feeling is weaker than the front lever. I have Deore M365 brakes, do you know if all Shimano reference are compatible? I have found Deore XT BL-M8000 and SLX BL-M7100 for the same price. I heard the whole XT kit is a bit better or lighter than SLX, but taking just the levers what's better? and for a little more I have found a Deore BL-M8100 XT , is this actually better or just a newer version?

[@JaredRMorgan]

So many folks will say they’re not compatible, but I assure you it works. It’s a hack just like when folks use the shimano levers for Magura brakes. Totally works, just kinda breaks some rules. As for spec level I’d just find anything M6000 series and up. SLX and XT both qualify and will give you the same braking force…only diff is XT has fancier finishes and an added texture on the lever which feels nice. If it were me, I’d aim for Deore level or SLX. Plenty enough. But if you can only find XT, then go for it! Cheers!

[@mtbtrack4716]

@@JaredRMorgan Thanks, I'll look for best compatibility and get a try.

[@ivanzila4244]

I love my mt420, only upgrade where trp metallic pads, but they stop on a dime even with 180/160 rotors. Definitely a good upgrade would be the levers as you have shown in the video.

[@JaredRMorgan]

That’s sweet! I hear great things about TRP. Good to know they mate up with those brakes.

[@starsky8351]

Do you ride steep downhills? I have the MT420s on my 2020 Norco Sight with 203/180 upgraded XT Icetech rotors with metal pads and still have really poor braking on steep descents. Don't really want to buy all new XT brakes, did the mrp pads make a difference on really steep Long descents?

[@YoungDoug13]

Ride some tektro mechanical disc breaks for a while and the mt200's will feel awesome.

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’ve ridden all of those setups. The Tektros can’t really be hacked into feeling nice.

[@YoungDoug13]

@@JaredRMorgan they're pretty terrible haha.

[@fedurrrass4226]

I have shimano deore br mt410 hydraulic brakes and are pretty good, short lever one or two fingers needed. If you change lever on mt200 you shoud buy better hydraulic disc too. I have 180mm front and 160 on rear. If something broke I will change to slx one with hydraulic servo, no need xt. I have 1x12 slx7100 drive and it's good to on superior Xp909. I buy that bike yesterday for good price. Mt200 are good for recreation drive it work as good like good vbrake brakes.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Totally agree. Recreational use and an Mt200 will do the darn thing.

[@imnotajedi]

I did something similar swapped levers between bikes. However the boot covers were different size.

[@JaredRMorgan]

These worked fine, but I have a little hack for that. You wrap a little bit of Teflon tape around the hex head of the hose bolt. Once you push the boot over that it’ll be nice and snug.

[@alfiejw5534]

Do m8000 (XT) levers work fine with mt-400s? Was looking at the m6100 but the XTs looked nicer. Great video btw man!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yep that’s what I put on my wife’s bike bc it’s all we could find. Go for it! Thanks for watching and stoked you enjoyed it!

[@alfiejw5534]

@@JaredRMorgan thank you! I’ll order them now and lyk how I get on! Keep up the content man!

[@dadlife8289]

Those Deore XT lever blades break off real easy, but there's replacements for them. Just youtube it, I know a guy who made a video about aftermarket Deore XT blade replacements

[@JaredRMorgan]

LOL. I think I know about this video. But tbh, I’ve never had that issue with the lever blades. Probably the nature of my crashes.

[@greenleafycabbage8715]

Hey thanks. I got a new mt200 so I'm gonna buy those levers soon

[@JaredRMorgan]

You won't regret it. Since uncovering this hack, I've probably done it to 10 bikes. Results have always been favorable! Thanks for watching!

[@pudekuf25]

Great video. I just went ahead and completely replaced my mt201 front and rear brakes with 4 piston Slate T4 by TRP. What an adventure that was trying to reroute the lines internally. Sheesh. I ran into the same problem trying to find new levers but got lucky when I came across the TRP brakes. What a difference. Keep those great hack videos coming. Thanks.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah part of the purpose of this hack was to keep people from having to fight the cable routing. Glad you got it sorted! Thanks for watching!

[@sergeikab4031]

I use shimano mt200 brakes their fine i can still do tricks and stuff the only problem was the levers they were so thin and i couldnt have a good grip one them i hooked up brake lever cover thingie and its perfect

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah they may work for some people. I just find them to lack ergonomic, aesthetics, and a pronounced bite point.

[@Joey.Oranje]

My mt201 are braking badly. Replace the pads and cleaned the rotors but still sucks. Considering buying some deore levers now. Hope this helps.

[@JaredRMorgan]

I think the combo of those 3 things will make a serious difference!

[@johnpaulestiamba358]

Great video man, just wanna ask if do I need to change the olives and fittings? Planning to buy ah slx lever (M7100) thanks.

[@JaredRMorgan]

It is recommended that you use a new olive but I always reuse them and had no problems

[@herry-y6h]

Hey thanks for the Video! Ist there some sort of more budget friendly version? I’m about to buy my self some mt200‘s but I want to save some money. I want to buy the calipers separately. What budget levers are there vor me?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Just run the mt200 as is for a while! I give them a hard time, but they’re not that bad.

[@christinemorgan5478]

Upgrade hacks for the win!! Thank you so much :)

[@JaredRMorgan]

You know it! 😁

[@tgafire87]

Just ordered the 400’s to replace my dog 💩 mechanical brakes. In the future if I need more brake this is a cool and easy upgrade. Thanks!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Very nice! Enjoy!

[@meepcheep314]

how noticeable is the power increase? levers can dramatically increase power although there isn't anymore surface area gripping the rotors ?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yes they can because of the different leverage ratios in the master cylinder. It’s enough power to where you don’t have to use 2 fingers which makes all the difference. More fingers your can leave on the bars!

[@meepcheep314]

@@JaredRMorgan wait...on mine i use 1 finger just fine, is it because i'm a kid and weigh near the 120 pound range? on my old trek marlin 5 tektro hydraulic brakes i definitely had to use 2 because they lacked in power, however while going down real trails and techy blues i kinda felt like I was along for the ride on the mt200s. and I had to use substantial force to get the back end to lock up to get around tight corners. anyways, i am probably not used to what a "real brake" would feel like even after trying 4 piston brakes on bike park rentals since i was on flat ground.

[@Amazing.G.]

Hello from Hungary! The video is very good, thank you! Do you think the Shimano deore BL-M4100 brake lever would work on the MT200?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yes it should, but opt for the bl-m5100 or better. That’s when things get nice. Cheers!

[@NonLegitNation2]

lol, kinda wish I had watched this before upgrading my Zoom hydraulic disc brakes to MT200s which i just bought yesterday. I'm hoping these actually are an upgrade to the zoom brakes. I guess if anything I could buy some new levers down the line.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah don’t beat yourself up! If it ain’t quite right, you know how to take it to the next level. Cheers!

[@sim_dude]

How do you find the mt 200 compare to the zoom?

[@NonLegitNation2]

@@sim_dude I like the lever better on the zoom brakes, and atleast on my pair of mt200s they don't seem to stop as well as the zoom brakes. I'm going to be upgrading the mt200s with some deore m6100s next week probably.

[@jeorgelopez5711]

Nice to see you posting again👍

[@JaredRMorgan]

Thanks, my friend!

[@vtecbrown]

Great video my man. I got a new Polygon in desperate need of some rear brake help. It has the MT200 caliper so this will be an easy upgrade!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah you’ll really like the feel! Helps a ton!

[@nicolasc7696]

what is the difference between mt200 and mt400/mt401?

[@phenofinder9145]

Mt400 and mt200 are 3 finger levers made of steel. Mt201 and 401 are two finger and are aluminum

[@JaredRMorgan]

This guy nailed it^

[@adrianmoses7389]

Hi thanks for this hack . Now my marlin 7, 2021 with 180mm rotors front and rear feels like real hard tail mtb.

[@JaredRMorgan]

That’s what I’m talking about! Glad it worked!

[@mmodtomic7119]

Huh, I've got the Mt200 brakes on my Rift Zone and those exact XT levers on my Rise...other than the adjustability of the XT levers, I don't feel much of a difference.

[@JaredRMorgan]

That's fair! Not everyone will have the same experience. I'm a pretty heavy rider so I can easily feel the difference in braking power.

[@unicorescannacorner6999]

Just wanted to see what other think of the 400s. I like mine. But mine are a replacement for cheap china brakes for my Fiido L3 E Bike. The Grip is far better. Niw I can say they feel good. And not cheap like my previous lever brakes wich I drove for 2000km around. So I broke the inbox first and now I got some entry level mountain bike stuff replacing the China plastic crap. For the rest: battery, Frame and the Portability. I really like it and have to say this was a good investment. But for Mountainbiking I get your Point. When there are some other brakes with a bit more features out there. Get them of course over the m400. For the Casual, I drive to work, and carry some stuff or have my trolley behind with some stuff it’s totally usable and a BIG upgrade to the Fiido Brakes. If someone is thinking this setup could be something for you as well: Fiido L3 Shimano m401 Brakes Shimano Pedal with one side for clicks and one just with mtb spikes Some random Bike Bag And a Smartphone clamp. Got it now since February and already got over 2000km on it. So its comfy and nice even off road.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Thank you for your thorough input!

[@eugene44569]

The whole Deore brakes set these days is only like 25 to 70 dollars more than the mt 200s or 400s so just spend a bit more and get deores. Even budget oriented kev central says that

[@JaredRMorgan]

Right but that’s not what bike companies give you. These brakes are on almost every complete bike now.

[@ready-to-shreddy5047]

Were any SLX levers in stock they are the perfect balance between cost and power.

[@JaredRMorgan]

There may be some out there! I can try to find you some in a bit.

[@JaredRMorgan]

not seeing any out there right now other than folks on Ebay who are price gouging!

[@ready-to-shreddy5047]

@@JaredRMorgan Thanks anyway Mr Morgan.

[@in_10z]

Awesome. Lever shopping begins now.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Smart man!

[@akaraikiriakatsuki3157]

At 1st I think mt200 sucks. Compared to a tektro brake, then I realized the mt200 is fairly ok, the difference is the tektro brake is so good it's trying to YEET you over the handle, the mt200 on the other hand feels weak at first then you try to lock the brakes and it's actually strong enough as well. The paint job could've been better though, it has rashes, I think it's not treated for rust

[@JaredRMorgan]

yeah that's fair to say!

[@ZeroGMVideos]

hi dude! could you tell me where did u buy that tyres? i love it! htnaks!

[@JaredRMorgan]

If you’re referencing the blue splatter, those are by a brand called Versus Tires!

[@ZeroGMVideos]

@@JaredRMorgan yep! ok thanks!

[@hollywood1513]

I just replaced my mt200 levers with deore levers. The front seems to be okay, but the rear seems squishy. I did a full bleed, but the lever still feels spongy. The rear pads seem fine. Any suggestions?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Bleed from the back to the front. There’s more than likely a rogue bubble somewhere. If it persists, it may just be that you don’t vibe well with the less than grabby organic pad compound. Swap to metallics and send it!

[@BenSoar]

I was thinking the same thing, like how big of a difference can a clilliper of the same size really make. I have shimano mt201 brakes and levers and to be honest they are awefull. I am wanting to upgrade just the levers, however the existing hoses are bh59. Would I still be able to use a lever for example xt designed for a bh90 with my bh59 hoses? Also do find that the left levers are very hard to find?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Disregard the hose models. In my experience that denotes how it attaches to the caliper which is irrelevant to this hack. We do it all the time successfully. Upgrade the levers and maybe your pads as well and it’ll be like a brand new brake system with excellent stopping power. Cheers! As for finding them in the US, I always go to a website called thunder mountain bikes. They keep a good inventory.

[@calebedens3740]

I love this! But, is the hose size the same? I know the MT200s use the 59 (?) size hose. Don't the better brakes use the bigger hose diameter?

[@JaredRMorgan]

The hoses are different on the higher end models, and that’s why at the caliper end you’ll run into complications with how the hardware matches up. You would not be able to just run high end calipers on MT200 hoses….However, no issues at the lever. Hardware threads right in.

[@calebedens3740]

@@JaredRMorgan great! Thank you so much! 🙏

[@JaredRMorgan]

No problem!

[@Samsongelmini9713]

Awesome info! Thought I had to buy all new brakes because of the hoses but now I’m going to just try this.

[@BMH1965]

HOWEVER ! Watch out for air bubbles in the rear as the bleed system geometry allows for an air chamber. You need to incline the bike to ensure all the air is gone.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Indeed!

[@wesdavies2455]

Currently got avid juicy’s, would you say these are better or worse please?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Ive heard good things about juicy, but I mean I’d consider upgrading just on the premise of them getting older. Replacement parts will be scarce. I’d still run them until something fails though.

[@wesdavies2455]

@@JaredRMorgan just purchased Clarks m2, with the intention of changing my daughters cable brakes Norco, but also purchased mt200’s, soooo, stuck on what to put where, I’ve got the juicy’s on snail rotors, but like you said my juicy’s are over 10yrs old, and was wondering what would current Mtb tubers line yourself put on my xc pro instead of the juicy’s or not?…

[@bhenry5091]

Another simple upgrade is replacing the rotors with harder steel ones that can run metallic pads!

[@JaredRMorgan]

I agree with that! Metallic approved rotors and pads is a great way to bring some additional stopping power into the mix.

[@SashaBelovy]

So i have mt200? If i buy like shimano xt brake lever it will become stronger brakes?

[@JaredRMorgan]

The master cylinder (the lever) dictates how the oil is driven to the caliper pistons. So yes. You can also get more out of them with bigger rotors and more aggressive pads if you still want more.

[@thedoghouseoutdoors4116]

Will this hack work for the BR-m201? That’s what’s on the d 6 now.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yep I did it to my D6. 👍

[@mcduffrobert]

Hey !, I have the Polygon T8 , that comes with the Tektro Orion brakes. Would these brake levers work with these? Or are they a completely different connection. I don’t like the Tektro levers at all.

[@JaredRMorgan]

It may work, but I can’t confirm that. I too am riding a Siskiu T, but I just replaced the entire system with Maguras to get off the tektro orions. What might work nicely is a TRP lever…since that is tektros more premium brand.

[@mcduffrobert]

@@JaredRMorgan I’ll check into that…. I had the Maguras in my first T8!

[@mcduffrobert]

@@JaredRMorgan I also could just cut off the the Tektro fittings and add the Shimano… i remember now that they are different. Also I’ll need to see if the hose diameter is the same… stand by… lol

[@brettarnold7241]

@@mcduffrobert not sure if you're still contemplating it, but that will absolutely work.

[@mcduffrobert]

@@brettarnold7241 yes, would love to change to Shimano levers, but i found out that Tektro hoses are different size then Shimano..... and I believe the olive and little barb are different. Now if i could use the Shimano olive and barb in the Tektro hose I would be good....Have you done this and how?

[@ZeroGMVideos]

so.. do you feel more brake power now? or it is just better modulation...?

[@JaredRMorgan]

You get more power out of it as the leverage ratio pushes the fluid with more force. Some folks will urge you that it won’t work bc the hose is not rated for it, but we ran setups like this for years at this house with 0 issues. Your call!

[@ZeroGMVideos]

@@JaredRMorgan ok great thanks.. im looking for a xt501 levers.. for my MT200 sets.. could be fine with it? Thanks!!

[@AdrenalineIsLife]

While I don't hate the MT200 and 400 brakes the way you do, that's a pretty good mod. The XT levers are really nice. 👌

[@JaredRMorgan]

Thanks man! Yeah I just don’t like the ergonomics or the bite. It’s just lacking for me. Wife agrees, and really loves her new setup.

[@mghuertas]

I have the 420 front and rear with 180mm they work as it should

[@JaredRMorgan]

Good to hear!

[@BigBoy-ql5rn]

The MT420s are 4 piston brakes. Different animal compared to MT200/201/400.

[@3v1Bunny]

sounds good :) :) nice that it all is this interchangeable though :)

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yes it is! It’s a bit of a hack like the title says but it totally works.

[@thescandiflick]

Awesome hack , I have the same Exactly brake levers that came with my Marin SQ3 . I saw another video where they also swapped the brake lever but the also cut the brake hose and installed a new nut and pin , is that part not needed ? I also thought that onle the deore levers would work not the SLX and XT. I appreciate your input , Cheers !

[@JaredRMorgan]

I normally just reuse the old olive unless it leaks! Your call on that. Yeah we did XT on my wife’s bike they all work.

[@thescandiflick]

@@JaredRMorgan tried it but the rear break was very spongy even though i did a full bleed I think you gotta use the olive of the Deore

[@uthamanroschke186]

I actually got a set of these and yes they have no power they are probably fine for regular use like riding to work but yes the brake don’t have any power

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah they’re a bit scary on the trail, but the lever mod helps a ton.

[@TheClayMan26]

Any long term issues from reusing the BH-59 olive/fitting?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Nope. The bike I did for this video, actually, is still here with me running flawlessly.

[@TheClayMan26]

Just installed some Deore levers, seriously a game changer!

[@bltbiking7448]

Awesome tip! What feature(s) do the higher end levers have that allow them to perform better? Have fun at outer bike!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Thanks! So the linkage can change the force at which the fluid is driven into the caliper pistons. Plus you factor in the ergonomics of a real 1 finger lever, and it just feels so right.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Will do! I’ll be taking it kinda easy bc of the injury.

[@grantprice1932]

Are the SLX levers compatible with the MT200 set?

[@JaredRMorgan]

they are!

[@brixpagnas8864]

THANK YOU! it saved me

[@JaredRMorgan]

Love comments like this! Enjoy!!

[@eugene44569]

Berm peak and ur video on the same day less go.

[@JaredRMorgan]

It’s a party on a Wednesday! 🎊

[@eugene44569]

@@JaredRMorgan man ur quick

[@smb7647]

Jumping on the band wagon i put on a set of mt200 on my budget bike wich had cable brakes, don't really like the mt200's, i find them weak, and they make a ton of noise before they lock up, I've blead them and sanded the pads but no real difference, might just go back to my good ol reliable cable brakes

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah they’re just not remarkably good. Gotta tweak them. Lever swap and better pads normally is quite transformative.

[@smb7647]

@CureCycling ordered some different pads, will givm one more try

[@3CityRide]

Watch 1:15 - 1:20. Swapping the levers while front caliper is mounted with shims on only one side of caliper :D What are those shims doing there anyway? It's hydraulic.

[@JaredRMorgan]

My dude, what are you talking about? 😂

[@mikekonings]

i got myself the 4 piston mt520 with mt 501 levers. they should be good and will come in tomorrow only 110 euro for the set

[@JaredRMorgan]

Nice! Enjoy!

[@braveheart0317]

I just upgraded the rotors 180 front 210 back problem solved.

[@JaredRMorgan]

That definitely helps too!

[@marklord2221]

Can the mt 200 be upgraded to 4 piston shimano ? And what are the parts i heard that organic pads in the back stop better than semi met or ceramic

[@JaredRMorgan]

If you want to increase piston count, I’d probably just do a whole new set of brakes at that point. Personally I find that metallic pads all around stop the best, but they can be noisy and wear out rotors faster.

[@marklord2221]

@@JaredRMorgan i was looking at lever and caliper upgrades from mt200

[@merdem7805]

i can yank super hard using 3 fingers on mt200. will i be able to do the same on xt one? its lever seems shorter.

[@JaredRMorgan]

The lever is shorter but the linkage driving the master cylinder has a different ratio - Less effort with more fluid being moved.

[@ebazar1]

Thanks for this video! Im about to get an orbea h30 with the mt410s. need break lever upgrade!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Funny you say that bc one of the first bikes we ever did this to was an H30. Enjoy!!

[@alen.mp4162]

i think it will work fine with my wheelie hardtail bike

[@JaredRMorgan]

No denying they work!

[@Henry14141]

will this work with tektro brakes too? I have Tektro HD-M745 brakes and would love to do this upgrade

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’ve heard it does!!

[@MTBQandA]

Been looking to upgrade from those myself. Just found this page and love it! Thanks for the info!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Stoked to hear that! Let me know how it works out for you!

[@meepcheep314]

help me out, what is bh90 and bh59? is it like stiffer hose and less stiffer hose? i am confused researching this and just wondering if I don't have to worry about compatibilty when buying these servo wave levers to replace mt200 levers

[@JaredRMorgan]

The nicer hoses have a banjo fitting attached to the caliper side which is irrelevant when just changing levers.

[@meepcheep314]

@@JaredRMorganok

[@szakalbarnabas87]

Will an older series XT levers M785 also work with it?

[@JaredRMorgan]

That’s a great question. I’ve never tried that, so I can’t confirm if it would.

[@Jon-ty6bb]

I’ve swapped MY400 levers for Deore M615. No problems. I far prefer the shorter leavers on the Deore.

[@znox913]

If I change brake lever with deore bl-m6100 that means I can still use mt200 calipers.

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yep that’s what I did basically.

[@znox913]

@@JaredRMorgan ok thx 🙏

[@ben4thewin]

I bent a lever on my mt200s and i was just looking for a video on how to dissasemble the actual blade but now i want to buy new breaks lol😂

[@JaredRMorgan]

If you got the $60 or so available it’s a very nice little upgrade.

[@marcel750p]

Any issues with that bleed kit from Amazon was reading some comments says they fluid isn’t Shimano brand?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Personally, I’ve used the shimano compatible fluids before with absolutely 0 issues.

[@JaredRMorgan]

If you do want shimano official fluid, here’s where to find it: amzn.to/30AL7Ny

[@djdentley]

For MT400s and up this is a great hack. My 2020 Roscoe 7’s MT200s need to go; lock, stock and barrel.

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’m getting a bike soon that will again be MT200. Gonna try the lever hack and a few other bits to see how I can make them perform. Should be interesting.

[@djdentley]

@@JaredRMorgan My beef with the MT200 is the Resin Pads only.

[@ronaldmasangya9306]

How about shimano Slx brake lever install in mt200 caliper? Do i have to change cables and olives etc? Please notice thanks in advance

[@JaredRMorgan]

No you don’t! Bolts right up.

[@ronaldmasangya9306]

Thanks bro nice vid 👍

[@blair-alan]

Great Stuff! I've ordered a new Salsa Rangefinder with the new Deore 6100 drivetrain but they stuck the m200s on it. Ugh. I'm gonna do this upgrade as soon as it comes in. Will have to wait until it shows up, though. These days manufacturers are subbing out parts without much warning. It may come with Tektros or some such thing. One question- Will m200s accept BH90 hose? Would it make sense to upgrade hose and brake lever, or is that not necessary (OK, two questions.)

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah man they love doing that these days! They’ll advertise Deore or SLX as the build kit and give you the bottom line brakes. This hack is the way, man. I’ve done it to so many bikes, and I’ll be doing it to more. Lol. As for the hose you’ll have to keep the ones native to the mt200 bc they don’t use a banjo fitting like the higher end calipers. So for this case, just do levers.

[@ozqu]

Are you sure its ok to reuse the olive?

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’ve done it many times with no issues, your experience may vary. If you’d like to use a fresh olive, it’s not a bad idea. Cheers!

[@ozqu]

@@JaredRMorgan Sounds good, time to buy a slx lever

[@high_above]

Thanks for the hack! Anyone tried it out with m4100 levers? These are much cheaper (and available) than the 6100, but the question is: will they be any better than the stock mt200s? Cheers!

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’m pretty sure that’s the same lever! Gotta start with 5000 series and up to reap the 1 finger braking benefits. Cheers!

[@jirihubacek6446]

You are mixing BH59 & BH90 optimized systems which is going to compromise some of the performance provided by servo wave levers. Also recycling already deformed olive is not a good idea if you want to keep air out of the braking system. I would suggest buying a BH90 hose with fitting together with the levers, as it is a minimal investment that furthermore enhance the performance.

[@JaredRMorgan]

That’s why it’s a hack bro…works perfectly too. Cheers.

[@jirihubacek6446]

@@JaredRMorgan Then I'm hacking your hack, so to say. Cheers mate :)

[@Jackbilecki]

Mt200 levers are really good if you just push it out

[@JaredRMorgan]

Sorry I disagree on that one.

[@joesee8079]

I did the same and they are way better that way. The problem is the engagement point. You have to pull them way in before it even engages. Would just bleeding help? Or is this all a marketing way for you to have to buy more expensive brakes because obviously it wouldn't cost them anymore to make it engage when you start to pull it in. Rant over

[@Jackbilecki]

@@joesee8079 idk My mt200s fine it’s all preference

[@joesee8079]

@@Jackbilecki yeah good enough for what I'm currently doing with them. Just saw a video where they adjust the engagement point by taking the wheel off and have a system of adjustment that gets pretty good reviews. I might try it someday.

[@joesee8079]

@@Jackbilecki kzbin.info/www/bejne/fl7dg6t9m6yagbc

[@MTBAlex]

so... if I got this right, the deore caliper is the same as the xt?

[@JaredRMorgan]

Not quite. SRAM will do things like share calipers. The moral of that story was that brake performance has a lot to do with the levers you run. I’m sure XT calipers are lighter and made of nicer material than Deore, but I’d venture to say their performance are nearly identical. ESPECIALLY if you ran XT levers to deore calipers. Make sense?

[@justincase2808]

Hey man hope ur alright i saw ur post an comment u helped me outh threw alow lil ya they do suck

[@JaredRMorgan]

Thanks for your concerns! Yeah we are working through it all right now. I got a little short about it coming tomorrow, but I should be fine in a few weeks I would think.

[@iandawson7373]

My mt 200 brakes work fine they stop me wot else do you want from brakes

[@JaredRMorgan]

Better feel primarily from a master cylinder that is one finger optimized.

[@septim_mart]

Just got a 29er with the 400s not good at all the old 315s were better

[@JaredRMorgan]

I can believe that.

[@tlosbarranqueros]

Help out here guys, I feel the same way, no power and it’s impossible to lock the rear if I’m on the bike and not using the front brakes on asphalt, which a V brake is capable of. They came with my Scott Bike 940 and it’s completely underwhelming. Changing just the levers would bring some sensible power back or should I just replace the brakes all together?

[@JaredRMorgan]

I’d say start with levers bc it’s so affordable and easy and if it’s still not enough try a larger rotor with a more aggressive pad. Those 3 should really change the dynamic without costing you too much in parts and labor. Cheers!

[@asmrlogic9412]

These brakes are fine.

[@JaredRMorgan]

You’re not wrong. Just not super good feeling.

[@ready-to-shreddy5047]

I have 200 but the 400 feels twisted downwards when I tried my friends Reid vice 3.0

[@JaredRMorgan]

Maybe his levers are bent!

[@ready-to-shreddy5047]

@@JaredRMorgan I thought so as well but then realized that his stock bars are actually sweeped downwards and he hadn't bothered to adjust them. :)

[@archa2472]

so what was the problem with the levers i dont get it

[@JaredRMorgan]

Wonky fit, feel, and modulation.

[@archa2472]

@@JaredRMorgan ohh ok, that makes a bit more sens thanks

[@dobes.dominik]

I was looking to upgrade my levers too, from mt400 to SLX but i never did cause i can´t get them XD

[@JaredRMorgan]

Yeah its tough right now. I know that worldwide cycler normally stocks them, and you may be able to sign up for email notifications. that would be an excellent mod.

[@jacoe33333]

what levers do we replace them with?

[@JaredRMorgan]

You can do any lever that’s shimano deore or above. Deore, SLX, XT, or XTR.

[@JessAlicaya]

Isn't it cheaper to just sell the MT200 and then buy the whole M6100 brakeset? Here in the Philippines, average price of MT200 is 45-50 dollars then 120 for the MT6100 brakes. It's crazy.

[@JaredRMorgan]

It's always possible that it would be cheaper to do that, but I wouldn't say that applies for the US market. Plus, there's value in how little work this takes to get done. No cable routing, no hose shortening, no non-sense.

[@spidermacleod9702]

If you're racing Enduro or DH, obviously the MT-200s aren't enough. The MT-200 brakes are for entry to mid level bikes, not for Whistler A-Line. Kids!!

[@JaredRMorgan]

Totally agree. They’re easily a decent trail brake after some tweaks.