Components - Brakes

In winter, the brake lever is one place where carbon is easily justified - but are there cheaper options available?

While usually blasé about high dollar super sleds made with aerospace-approved material - Andrew Major has found some uses for the 'plastic fantastic...'

Andrew was surprised by a few products this year - and he's got a new assistant mechanic...

Magnets and Metal and Plastic and NeoShell

These made in Italy brakes serve up a lot of power with only two pistons per caliper, and the feathery feel is unmatched...

Once Hayes and Manitou were at the top of the heap - these products make it clear they are serious about getting back there...

Shimano's top of line MTB group finally goes full time 1x - and this one goes to 12 - but there are other highlights help you win at gear...

TRP's Slate T4 is an entry level brake that can punch well above its weight class...

Formula's mineral oil Cura brake is made in Italy, features a one-piece master cylinder body, a simple plunger setup, and a competitive price.

Shimano goes deep with 1x and 12spd while pushing innovation with virtually every component - but can XTR get back on top...

Does Aaron Gwin even use his brakes? Do you need to stop quickly to go fast? And what does TRP stand for...

Magura pairs a powerful four piston front caliper with a more modest two piston binder in the rear for braking that is balanced and quiet...

The new Codes bear the SRAM name and offer better heat management, lots of fluid and everything you loved about the old Code...

TRP's top of the line brake (Gwin spec?) gets ripped apart so we can see what slows Aaron down...

How did Aaron Gwin end up on a brake brand you've never heard of? Actually you probably have heard of them...

Some early impressions of the Magura MT Trail Sport as well as some tips on how to bleed them as soon as you get them...

Magura launches a 4 piston/2piston combo and refines the precision engineered line from Germany...

There are some imperfections - but considering you can walk away with a complete set for less than $100 US these are impressive...

Don’t let its ‘mere’ 120mm of rear wheel travel or its ‘small’ 27.5″ wheels deceive you – this is a barn-burner of a trail bike.

“Heading out onto the trail, the first thing I noticed was just how much more power modulation the Afterburner had than several other brakes I had been riding…”

“I thought the Code offered as much sheer power as the Saint, but the Code felt more predictable…”