Cyclist0108

I've always reset pistons with some old pads inserted in the caliper, and I use a broad flat-blade screwdriver to press the pad to press the piston, figuring that this was the least likely way to do damage.

My kid, doing the same thing, just cracked a piston.

So I thought maybe I should get the park tool.

However, it looks like a $20 pretty version of the screwdriver. Moreover, there is the following disclaimer at the bottom of the page:

"NOTE: Wedge-style piston tools, such as the PP-1.2, are not intended for use with ceramic pistons in Shimano® road disc brake calipers."

Ok. I assume this means don't use our tool or your screwdriver to push the pistons back with the pads.

Where does that leave us? Is it better to use a plastic tire lever and press it in the center of the piston? (I assume touching the piston with the screwdriver or whatever directly would be far worse.)