Odyssey K9 Brakes - The Best Choice for BMX Riders

The History of Odyssey Brakes

Odyssey brakes have become one of the most popular brands for BMX riders over the years. The company first started making brakes designed specifically for BMX bikes back in the late 1980s. At the time, most riders were still using road bike caliper brakes, which didn't provide enough stopping power for BMX riding.

The K9 Model Brakes

In the 1990s, Odyssey introduced their K9 model brake. This brake set featured strong dual pivot caliper arms and rugged brake pads to handle hardcore street and park riding. The K9 brakes quickly became the new standard for top level BMX riders at competitions like the X Games.

Today, the Odyssey K9 brake continues to be one of their most popular models. The current version features a lightweight yet durable aluminum design with cartridge brake pads. This gives riders the perfect combination of stopping power and control.

Other Key Features

Some of the key features BMX riders love about Odyssey K9 brakes include:

• Dual cable straddle cable setup for even pad wear
• Interchangeable springs to customize tension
• Multiple color anodizing options
• Affordable replacement parts

Why Odyssey Has Dominated the BMX Brake Market

There are a few key reasons why Odyssey K9 brakes continue to be the first choice for so many BMX riders:

Proven Track Record

With over 30 years in the industry now, Odyssey has proven they can make brakes that can withstand years of hardcore riding. Their reputation for quality and durability is unmatched.

Feedback from Sponsored Riders

Top pro riders like Dave Mirra, Mat Hoffman, and Chad Kerley have helped Odyssey test and refine their brake designs over the years. This rider feedback means each new generation of brakes works better than the last.

Specialization in BMX

Unlike some other brake brands, Odyssey focuses 100% on the needs of BMX riders. This means they put all their effort into making the best performing and longest lasting brakes specifically for street, park, and dirt jumping.

Installing New Odyssey K9 Brakes

Putting new Odyssey K9 brakes onto your BMX bike is a relatively straightforward process. But there are some key steps to follow for proper setup and adjustment:

Brake Pad Alignment

Start by setting both brake pads evenly on either side of the rim when the wheel is centered in the frame/forks. This ensures even pad wear over time.

Cable Setup

Run brake cables through all frame routing holes and secure with cable stops. Cut to proper length and install cable housing ferrules. Use the straddle cable mount for dual cable setup.

Spring Tension

Choose your preferred spring stiffness for the brake lever pressure you like. Heavier springs need more finger pressure but offer stronger braking power.

With the wheel centered between the pads, adjust each cable adjuster barrel until there is even tension on both brake arms. Double check pad toe-in angle as well. Now you're ready to ride with the best brakes in BMX!

Maintaining Your Odyssey K9 Brakes

To get the longest life and performance out of your brakes, be sure to perform regular maintenance. Follow this routine to keep them working smoothly for years:

Check Pad Depth

Inspect pad thickness every few months. Replace when down to about 2mm depth remaining for optimum braking.

Lubricate Pivot Points

Use a waterproof bike chain lube to keep the brake arm pivot bolts and spring tension screws operating smoothly.

Clean Rotor and Pads

Use isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean the brake rotor surface and pads when they appear dirty or glazed over. This restores grip and power.

Check Hardware

Periodically inspect all mounting hardware, cables, straddle wire kits and ensure nothing has loosened. Tighten or replace components as needed.

By regularly servicing your Odyssey K9 brakes, you'll get the incredible stopping confidence and control top BMX riders rely on to push their limits!

FAQs

What brake pads should I use with Odyssey K9 brakes?

Odyssey recommends using their own Clear Smoke brake pads or Odyssey Ghost pads for the best performance. They offer great stopping power and long lifespan.

How hard are Odyssey K9 brakes to install?

The K9 brakes use a standard dual pivot caliper design that is relatively straightforward to install for someone with basic bike mechanic skills. The main steps are centering the brake over the wheel, running the cables properly, and adjusting the springs and pad toe-in angle.

Can I upgrade from cheap stock brakes to Odyssey K9 brakes?

Yes, the K9s will be a great performance upgrade over basic no-name brakes often found on complete BMX bikes. Their dual pivot and cartridge pad design will give you far superior stopping power and control.

How long do Odyssey K9 brake pads normally last?

Brake pad lifespan depends on your riding style and frequency. Most BMX riders can expect roughly 6 months to a year of use from one set of K9 pads depending on conditions. Always replace them once worn below 2mm thickness.