How to Fix Shimano Wandering Bite Point with Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil
Solving Shimano’s Wandering Bite Point: The Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil Fix
If you're a Shimano brake user, chances are you've encountered the frustrating "wandering bite point" issue, especially with certain models like the XT M8000. Many riders have shared their experiences, trying everything from bleed techniques to overhauling systems, but one novel solution has gained attention recently: using Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil.
The Problem: Shimano’s Wandering Bite Point
For years, Shimano riders have complained about an inconsistent bite point, where the brake lever engages at different points during use. This problem has plagued various models, with many attributing it to either a design flaw or incorrect bleeding technique. Despite numerous efforts to fix it, the issue continues to appear in product reviews and user forums, making it a notorious problem for Shimano brake users.
The Solution: Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil
Gorilla Brakes" shared a breakthrough, explaining that despite several bleeds using Shimano's recommended fluid, the problem persisted on the rear brake. However, when using Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil during a bleed, the issue disappeared. According to Gorilla Brakes, the oil provided a crisp and solid brake feel, solving the wandering bite point for several weeks without any signs of the problem returning.
What’s interesting here is the theory that this oil’s slightly different properties compared to Shimano's mineral oil help push air bubbles out more effectively, resulting in a cleaner, more thorough bleed. Given how air trapped in Shimano brakes is often the culprit behind inconsistent lever feel, it’s plausible that Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil improves the process.
Why Does It Work?
The key here seems to be in the fluid’s characteristics. Traditional Shimano mineral oil might not bleed as effectively in some setups, making it harder to fully expel air bubbles. By switching to Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil, users report that air is expelled more efficiently during the bleed process, resulting in a more consistent bite point.
One theory offered by users is that this specific oil formula doesn’t hold onto air pockets as much as Shimano’s standard oil does, allowing for a better bleed, particularly with the challenging longer hose runs of rear brakes.
The Debate: Is It Really the Fluid?
Not everyone is convinced. Some argue that the key factor is still in the bleed technique, and while using a different fluid might help in some cases, it may not be a magic bullet for all Shimano brakes. Several experienced mechanics point out that Shimano brakes are tricky to bleed, and even a perfect technique can sometimes lead to inconsistent results. Nevertheless, many agree that Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil could increase the chances of a successful bleed.
Final Thoughts
The use of Bleedkits Gold Mineral Oil to solve Shimano’s wandering bite point problem is gaining traction, and for good reason—it’s worked for many who have tried everything else. If you're tired of inconsistent brake feel and are ready to experiment, this mineral oil might be worth a try. While it may not fix every case, it has provided a significant improvement for some and could offer a fresh approach to a persistent issue.
Have you tried it? Share your thoughts and experiences—this could be the fix many Shimano users have been searching for!