The Best MTB Disc Brake? We're Testing and Need Your Input

Jennifer Miller · 2026-10-22

Maximum stopping power, perfect modulation, and complete control. Sounds like the ideal MTB brake, right? But which disc brake really delivers out on the trail? And does spending more necessarily mean getting better performance? We want to find out, and we need your input! For the upcoming ENDURO issue #070, we're putting the most exciting MTB disc brakes on the market to the test. Take part in our survey and help shape our big group test by telling us what really matters to you when it comes to braking performance. ### Maximum Power or Maximum Control? Why Not Both! Maximum stopping power alone doesn't make a great brake. How precisely can you modulate that power? How much finger effort does the lever require? And how consistent is the performance when things really heat up on long descents? To find out, we're not just putting the brakes through their paces on the trails. As part of this group test, we'll also be taking them into the test lab. ### Who Will Take the Win? Can the winner of our last group test defend their title? Or has the competition stepped up its game and raised the bar? Find out in our big MTB brake group test in ENDURO issue #070. ### Now It's Your Turn – Help Shape Our Big Brake Group Test! Which MTB brakes have impressed you? What matters most to you? And what does a brake need to deliver to earn the title of best on the market? Your opinion matters! By taking part in our survey, you'll help us bring the MTB community's perspective into our group test. Because beyond lab results and our own testing experience, we want to know what really matters to you out on the trail. > "The best brake isn't the one with the most power on paper—it's the one that gives you confidence when you're barreling down a rocky chute." ### What Makes a Brake the Best? Here's What We're Looking For When we test brakes, we consider a bunch of factors. But we want to know what you think. Here's a quick list of what we'll be evaluating: - **Modulation**: Can you feather the brake smoothly, or is it on/off? - **Power**: Does it stop you dead when you need it? - **Lever feel**: Is it light and easy to pull, or does it require a gorilla grip? - **Consistency**: Does it fade on long descents? - **Maintenance**: How easy is it to bleed and replace pads? - **Price**: Does spending more really get you more? We'll be putting these brakes through the wringer, both on the trail and in the lab. But we need your help to make sure we're asking the right questions. ### Take the Survey and Make Your Voice Heard We've put together a short survey to gather your thoughts. It won't take more than a few minutes, and it'll help us understand what riders like you really care about. Your feedback will directly influence our testing process and the final verdict. So, whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned racer, we want to hear from you. Which brakes have impressed you? What matters most? Let us know! Thanks for your support! See you soon, Your ENDURO test crew