The Best Mountain Bike Hydraulic Brakes

The Best Mountain Bike Hydraulic Brakes

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Hydraulic disc brakes offer mountain-bike riders unparalleled control in the most technical riding situations. Rain, sleet and snow are all conquerable, not to mention mud and dust. Whether the priority is professional level enduro racing, cross-country riding through boulder-strewn singletrack or even an easy trail ride with friends, these brakes are some of the best available.

Hygia Elite

The Hygia Elite is designed to make life on the trail a bit easier. Riders will find that only a five millimeter hex key and a torx screwdriver are necessary to make adjustments. Specifications include a weight of 292g, Shimano XTR and XT compatible pads, kevlar hose and aluminum alloy calipers and levers. Additionally, the Elite's fluid reservoir is concealed and surfaces are anodized to reduce corrosion from brake fluid.

Formula R1

The Formula R1 is designed as a pro-level cross-country racing brake. Specifications include a very low weight of 263g, forged one-piece radial master cylinder and caliper with pistons at 22mm, high capacity reservoir, interchangeable magnesium levers, removable clamp, dual master cylinder ports for bleeding, and brake pads that are aluminum-backed to shave additional weight.

Hayes Stroker Ace

The Hayes Stroker Ace is designed with as a high-performance, all-around mountain biking brake. Specifications include a weight of 440g, a four-piston, forged mono-bloc aluminum caliper, an aluminum radial and symmetrical master cylinder, sintered metallic brake pad material with an aluminum backing plate and an aluminum lever. Additionally, a tool-free reach adjustment makes bleeding and pad changes easier.

Article Written By Mike Biscoe

Mike Biscoe has been writing since 2009. Focusing on travel, sports and entertainment topics, he has credits in various online publications including LIVESTRONG.COM and Trails. He often writes articles covering uncommon travel destinations from firsthand experience. Biscoe holds a Certificate of Completion in acting from the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts.

Write for Trails.com
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