MAGURA Race Pro: The Aluminum Brake That Could Dethrone the MT7

Jennifer Miller · 2026-09-17

MAGURA's new Race Pro brake is turning heads in the mountain biking world. Priced at $760 per set, this aluminum successor to the beloved MT7 promises more power, better modulation, and a premium feel. But does it deliver on the trail? Let's dig in. ### The MT7 Legacy and the Need for Change The MAGURA MT7 has been a staple on downhill, enduro, and e-mountain bikes for years. Riders love its four-piston stopping power, but not everyone vibes with its lever feel or Carbotecture construction. Since its last major update in 2019, the MT7 has remained largely unchanged. Enter the Race Pro: MAGURA's most powerful and precise brake yet, designed to win over skeptics and fans alike. ### Aluminum Overhaul: A New Era for MAGURA Gone is the Carbotecture, replaced by CNC-machined aluminum for the master cylinder, clamp, and lever. The caliper is also intricately machined, shedding unnecessary material while boosting stiffness. The matte silver finish with black accents and laser-etched logos screams premium. Plus, the aluminum build should survive crashes better than plastic. It's a bold move that signals MAGURA's commitment to performance and durability. ### Bigger Pistons, Better Performance? MAGURA increased the master piston from 10mm to 12mm and the caliper pistons from 17mm to 19mm. But bigger isn't always better. It's about the hydraulic ratio, mechanical leverage, and minimizing friction. The Race Pro features a low-friction anodized piston bore and ball-bearing lever pivot to keep things smooth and consistent. The result? A linear, easy-to-modulate power curve that builds predictably through the lever stroke. ### Weight and Price: The Trade-Offs At 10.9 ounces per brake (with a 3.3-foot hose), the Race Pro is light enough for trail and even cross-country bikes. But at $760 per set, it's a serious investment. MAGURA positions it above many competitors, so you're paying for that premium build and performance. ### On the Trail: Does It Live Up to the Hype? We haven't tested it yet, but MAGURA claims the Race Pro offers plenty of power with minimal lever effort. The radial design and revised piston sizes should provide a distinct feel at the lever, with braking power that's easy to control in technical terrain. If it lives up to the promise, it could be a game-changer for riders who want top-tier stopping power without sacrificing modulation. ### The Verdict The MAGURA Race Pro is a bold statement. It's not just an MT7 update; it's a reimagining. With its aluminum construction, larger pistons, and premium price, it's aimed at riders who demand the best. Will it convert the skeptics? Only time on the trail will tell. But one thing's for sure: MAGURA isn't holding back. **Key Specs:** - Price: $760 per set - Weight: 10.9 oz per brake (with 3.3 ft hose) - Pistons: Master 12mm, Caliper 19mm (four-piston) - Material: CNC-machined aluminum - Availability: TBA