Worn brake calipers pivots an issue?

[Elliot M]

The pivots on brake calipers on my bike are getting worn enough that there's around 7mm of play at the pad. Having nothing to compare them with, is consensus that this actually effects their efficiency?

They still move smoothly and don't judder when applied.

About 6 year old Shimano 105s, but I don't like to get the wallet out unless there's a discernable benefit...

[Dombo]

Call me an old fuddy duddy, but with 7mm of play I'd replace them. They're not expensive - check chainreaction or similar and you'll probably get a set of '09s at half price. Justify it as a safety expenditure, it's not like you're agonising over buying a carbon bottle cage.

[Elliot M]

Yes, I think you're probably right!

Annoyingly though, '09 Ultegra SL -- the shiny grey ones which would also match my cranks -- are actually more expensive than '10 product.

[Rotherham Steve]

Are these the ones? 50% off, £30 each..

[url]http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/BCSHU10S/shimano-ultegra-sl-brake-calliper[/url]

[Dombo]

Fit some salmon Koolstop pads and you'll save your rims too. Fantastic stopping power even in the wet.

[Elliot M]

Nice one Steve!

Already use the salmon Kool-Stops though.