Initial observation.  From the minute I installed the Usagi's they had a very familiar feel.  It could be due to the fact that the system uses the standard Shimano brakes pads and the caliper design is very similar if not identical to the Shimano calipers which were found on the XTR 900 series Dual Control system that I used to own.  Power seemed to be there right after installation even before I performed any type of bedding of the brake pads.  I chose to use the standard unmarked rotors and hardware that were included with the system.  

If not for the previous experience I have from installing other brake systems, I wouldn't have been able to figure out the orientation of the rotors.  Where rotors are typically laser etched showing the rotational direction, the usagi rotors leave it up to us to use our imagination.


*MNB: All Hygia rotors now have laser etching indicating rotation and torque details.


Let's start off with the pros of this system.  Mounting of calipers went without drama.  No additional lever or pad adjustment was necessary.  They calipers centered over the rotors very easily without drag.

Lever feel was very light like previous Shimano Dual control systems.  Modulation is good, although it could be a little bit firmer.  Even coming to a stop from high speeds, the brakes are very controlled and composed and predictable.  No instant on and off here.  No surprises with the feel of the brakes.

Weight is also a big big plus of the system. I think we are around the XTR weight and lighter than formula oro k24 weight at a fraction of the cost


*MNB: JM has since weighed his Usagis, and the numbers are:

Front, complete set, including rotors: 378g
Rear, complete set, including rotors: 398g

Now for the cons.  Because this system is an XC system, it has its limitations.  Power is good but not hair raising. There is also quite a bit of brake fade on medium to long descents so you can't really feather the brakes on descents.  You need to stay off them completely to cool down then get on them again when you need to.  I am also presently getting some leakage of brake fluid from the main lever reservoir cover.  I tried tightening the allen screws but did not want to over tighten them.  I have ridden a little over 200km on the system and the leakage is ever so slight but enough to let some air in causing a little bit of expansion when the brakes heat up causing some sponginess on my rear brake. Might try to bleed it this weekend to see if it will yield any improvement.


Overall, this brake system is a great bang for the buck.  It's difficult to shoot it down for its faults because of the value it brings to the table.  You'll have a hard time finding another brake system out there at this price point with this weight, nice design, and pad availability.