The brakes grip. HS33's are the way to go in trials (unless you run dual-disk, of course). If you want, you can bleed the line, but that's only to give you a better feel for the brake. It's up to you. The rims were only ground once, and lightly at that. With the Maggies, and soft pads, you only need a light grind to increase surface area, thereby increases braking. If you are interested in the bike, and you are in Toronto, give me a call. I'm away this weekend (Nov. 8th and 9th), but we can set up a time if you want to take a look at it.