MAGURA Race Pro Brake Tested: Is the MT7's Aluminum Successor Worth $760?

Robert Wilson · 2026-09-17

## MAGURA Race Pro Brake Test: Is the MT7's Aluminum Successor Worth $760? MAGURA's new Race Pro brake isn't just another iteration of the beloved MT7. It's a bold statement. The German brand is betting big on aluminum, larger pistons, and a fresh design to win over skeptics and loyal fans alike. But at $760 per set, does it deliver on the trail? We put it to the test. ### First Impressions: A Premium Makeover Gone is the polarizing Carbotecture construction. The Race Pro goes full metal with a CNC-machined aluminum master cylinder, clamp, and lever. The matte silver finish with black accents and laser-etched logos looks undeniably high-end. It's also built to survive crashes better than its plastic predecessor. The angular styling might not suit everyone's taste, but it screams performance. ### Under the Hood: Bigger Pistons, Smarter Design MAGURA didn't just swap materials. They reengineered the hydraulic system. The master piston grows from 10mm to 12mm, and the four caliper pistons jump from 17mm to 19mm each. But bigger isn't always better—it's about the balance between hydraulic ratio, leverage, and stiffness. MAGURA achieves this with a low-friction anodized piston bore and ball-bearing lever pivot. The result? A lever feel that's light, precise, and virtually free of play. ### On the Trail: Power Meets Control We tested the Race Pro on steep enduro tracks and technical downhills. The first thing you notice is the effortless power. One finger is all it takes to scrub speed, and modulation is superb—linear, predictable, and never grabby. The lever action is silky smooth, thanks to the radial design and ball bearings. Even after hours of riding, the consistency remained flawless. At 310 grams per brake (with a 1-meter hose), it's light enough for trail and even cross-country bikes, yet burly enough for downhill rigs. The Race Pro truly shines when you're pushing limits, whether you're racing enduro or just tackling gnarly descents. ### The Verdict: A Worthy Successor? MAGURA claims the Race Pro is their most powerful and precise brake ever. Based on our testing, that's not hyperbole. It addresses the MT7's quirks—lever feel, durability—while elevating performance to a new level. The $760 price tag is steep, but for riders who demand the best, it's a worthy investment. > "The Race Pro isn't just an upgrade; it's a redefinition of what a high-performance brake should be." If you're a weight-conscious trail rider or a gravity-focused racer, the Race Pro deserves a spot on your bike. Just be prepared to pay for perfection. ### Key Specs at a Glance - **Price:** $760 per set (front and rear) - **Weight:** 310 grams per brake (with 1-meter hose) - **Master Cylinder:** 12mm piston, aluminum construction - **Caliper:** Four 19mm pistons, CNC-machined aluminum - **Lever:** Ball-bearing pivot, single-finger design - **Intended Use:** Downhill, enduro, e-MTB, trail, cross-country ### Final Thoughts MAGURA has a winner on its hands. The Race Pro combines premium materials, thoughtful engineering, and trail-tested performance. It's not cheap, but for riders who value control and reliability, it's money well spent. If you're still on the fence, demo a set—you might just become a convert.