Hi
Have had Avids for a while but they always seem to seize up in the winter and I am looking for a set of brakes which I can fit and forget. Im looking at XT's as they have more pad/rotor clearance or at formula K24's as I have formula the ones on my DH bike and they have been maintenance free.
Anyone got any advice on the most bombproof trail brakes out there

Does hydro fluid change in colder climates?

Could use cable discs?

Or pump the lever/fluid hard when the bike is inside the lounge/house?

Hydro fluid bearly changes but rubber seals get stiffer. Personally never find my brakes change with the seasons unless mud gets spat up behind the extended pad.

Hydro fluid bearly changes but rubber seals get stiffer. Personally never find my brakes change with the seasons unless mud gets spat up behind the extended pad.

Is that DOT or mineral oil you're talking about?

I thought my mineral oil got a lot thicker but maybe I imagined it

Hope.

I have no experience of the latest generation hope but the older ones I have just work – summer / winter / mud / ice / dust. Decent pad life yada yada yada

I've got ancient Hope C2s on my winter bike. Had them for years and they were second-hand when I bought 'em. Repeat what TJ has said.