What cantilever brakes? (Acera X Vs Deore LX)

[Titiritero]

I'm rebuilding a nice Trek 750 (hybrid bike), and I can mount some Acera X or Deore LX cantilever brakes.

The LX are obviously better, at least in the Shimano hierarchy, but I'm concerned that the plastic spring covers already show signs of UV damage, and one of the plastic washers on the fixing bolt is missing, which seems to be a common issue. Everything else in the bike will also be Deore LX, so it would be matching.

The Acera X are silver, which would fit the bike better, have the springs hidden in the brake body (less visible plastic), and the design seems similar enough to not have an impact in performance.

Which ones would you choose? (Pics from internet). I've just realised the pics are from a STX set, but the Acera X are virtually identical.

 

[wesmamyke]

The LX brakes have a metal back plate sorta thing where the spring comes out. In my experience they don't ever get exploding spring housing syndrome like cheaper Shimano brakes. The Acera are better than the truly cheap models for sure, but I think I've seen some issues with those.

The plastic trim washer things are always broken on LX and XT brakes, that's just reality with them. Maybe somebody will 3D print some replacements in decent UV stable material.

 

[marc two tone]

The LX will feel slightly better in build quality and setup will be a doddle. However, performance won't be huge in difference and, you won't care about scratches etc to the black gloss.
Bang the accera on, still around since mid 90's. Keep them clean and well lubed, should do another 20 years. And won't lose the plastic escutcheon thingy.....

 

[Titiritero]

Yeah, exactly one of those is already missing... I have to check if the others are cracked. The donor bike had a very rough life with the previous owner...