MAGURA Race Pro Brake Test: Is This the Ultimate MT7 Upgrade?

Jennifer Miller · 2026-09-17

MAGURA's new Race Pro brake is here, and it's causing quite a stir in the mountain biking world. Promising to win over both loyal fans and skeptics, this brake is more than just an update to the beloved MT7. With a price tag of $760 (converted from €699.80) for the set, it's a serious investment. But does it deliver on the trail? I spent some time testing it to find out. ### A Bold New Look and Feel Gone is the Carbotecture construction that divided riders. The Race Pro goes all-in on metal: CNC-machined aluminium for the master cylinder, clamp, and lever, paired with a beautifully machined caliper. The matte silver finish with black accents and laser-etched lettering looks premium and feels robust. It's a clear departure from the MT7's plastic-heavy design, and while the angular styling might not suit everyone, there's no denying it looks high-end. But the changes go beyond aesthetics. MAGURA has reworked the piston dimensions: the master piston grows from 10 to 12 mm, and all four caliper pistons increase from 17 to 19 mm. Bigger pistons don't automatically mean more power, but combined with a low-friction anodised bore and ball-bearing lever pivot, the result is a brake that feels incredibly smooth and precise. ### Performance on the Trail On the trail, the Race Pro impresses with its linear power delivery. The lever action is light, and braking force builds predictably, making it easy to modulate in tight situations. Whether you're bombing down a downhill course or navigating technical enduro stages, this brake gives you confidence. At 10.9 ounces (310 grams) per brake with a 3.3-foot (1-meter) hose, it's also impressively light, making it a viable option for trail and even cross-country bikes. However, the premium price raises expectations. At $760, it's competing with the best brakes on the market. Does it justify the cost? For riders who value precision and a premium feel, absolutely. But if you're on a budget, the MT7 still offers excellent performance for less. ### The Verdict MAGURA's Race Pro is a worthy successor to the MT7. It addresses many of the criticisms of its predecessor while pushing the boundaries of performance and design. The aluminium construction not only looks better but should also withstand crashes better. The larger pistons and refined hydraulics deliver powerful, controllable braking that's a joy to use. If you're a serious rider looking for the best, the Race Pro is a compelling choice. It's not cheap, but quality rarely is. For everyone else, the MT7 remains a solid option. Either way, MAGURA has raised the bar for high-performance brakes. - **Price:** $760 per set - **Weight:** 10.9 oz per brake (with 3.3 ft hose) - **Pistons:** 12 mm master, 19 mm caliper (x4) - **Material:** CNC-machined aluminium - **Lever:** Ball-bearing pivot > "The Race Pro is the most powerful and precise brake we've ever made." – MAGURA Stay tuned for more detailed long-term tests and comparisons.