The MTB Brake That Could Dethrone Your Favorite

Robert Wilson · 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. We'll measure everything from heat dissipation to lever feel, so you get the full picture. ### 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—it's the one that makes you feel invincible on the trail." So, what's your take? Do you prioritize raw power, or is modulation and consistency more your style? Maybe you've got a favorite brand that's never let you down, or perhaps you've been burned by a pricey set that didn't live up to the hype. Whatever your experience, we want to hear it. ### Why Your Input Matters We're not just testing brakes in a vacuum. We're testing them for you—the riders who depend on them every time you hit the trail. Your feedback helps us understand what's important: Is it the initial bite, the fade resistance on long descents, or the ease of bleeding? Maybe it's the price-to-performance ratio, or how easy it is to find replacement pads. By sharing your thoughts, you're helping us create a test that reflects the real-world needs of mountain bikers. ### What's Next? Once the survey closes, we'll compile the results and combine them with our lab and trail tests. The full breakdown will be in ENDURO issue #070. Will your favorite come out on top? There's only one way to find out—and it starts with your voice. Thanks for your support! See you soon, Your ENDURO test crew