The new SRAM MAVEN brakes promise to combine extreme braking power with good modulation, and they’re the new flagship in SRAM’s brake lineup. Developed for use on enduro and downhill bikes, the four piston brakes boast some proven features alongside some exciting new ideas.

SRAM Maven-Ultimate | 4-piston | 366 grams | € 360 | Manufacturer’s website

When it comes to brakes, SRAM (and formerly AVID) are an indispensable part of the scene, with decades of experience and a vast range of different models. Having overcome some of the service issues which used to plague their older models, SRAM’s brakes have become known for their fine modulation, if not so much for their power. With their new MAVEN brakes, SRAM want to change that, combining their trademark modulation with an extra helping of power. In addition, they now rely on mineral oil for their latest four-piston brakes, which doesn’t just simplify servicing, but also extends service intervals.

As you can see just by looking at them, the new SRAM MAVEN brakes are designed to be used when things get rowdy on the trails. They’re for enduro, downhill, eMTBs, and riders who regularly push their brakes to the limit or simply want more power. SRAM claim that they deliver almost 50% more stopping power, and require about 30% less force on the lever to deliver the same power. This is all compared to the four-piston SRAM CODE brakes, which aren’t history, by the way – they’ve just had to move over. In future, you will primarily see the CODEs on trail bikes, which we think is a sensible development considering the increasing capability of modern mountain bikes.

To read the full article visit our sister magazine ENDURO.


Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.

Words & Photos: Peter Walker

About the author

Peter Walker

As a technical editor, Peter is as much a man of action as he is of words. This expert, screw-driver-flexing two wheeled-whizz has many envy-inducing characteristics, including a background in motocross, several EWS race plates to his name, and more than 150 recorded days at Whistler Bike Park. However complex the bike and however steep the trail, he’s probably already nailed it, twice. Oh, and he can do it all on skinny tyres too. When it comes to guiding consumers, Peter cut his teeth at Vancouver’s oldest bike shop and now puts pen to paper on the daily translating this know-how into our editorial plan. When not tearing up Stuttgart’s local trails while testing bikes, he loves nothing more than loading up his self-renovated VW T5 and hitting the road. The fact that he’s a trained paramedic gives his colleagues reassurance out on the trails. So far we haven’t had to call him by his alias ‘Sani Peter’, so here’s hoping he keeps it right side up for the rest of his time here!