The MTB Brake That Could Dethrone the Champion

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. Because numbers don't lie, but neither does trail feel. ### 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. ### What Makes a Brake "Best"? We all have our own definition of the perfect brake. For some, it's about sheer power – the ability to scrub speed instantly when a surprise drop appears. For others, it's modulation – that sweet spot where you can feather the brakes without locking up. And then there's consistency – the brake that feels the same on run one and run ten, even when things get spicy. But here's the thing: the "best" brake is the one that works for you. That's why we need your voice. Tell us what you value most, and we'll make sure our test reflects the real-world needs of riders like you. ### The Lab Meets the Trail Our test isn't just about numbers. Sure, we'll measure bite point, leverage, and heat management in the lab. But we'll also spend hours on the trail, pushing these brakes to their limits. Because a brake that performs on paper but fades on the trail isn't worth your hard-earned cash. ### Your Voice Matters So don't hold back. Whether you're a weight-weenie, a downhill demon, or a weekend warrior, your feedback will help us crown the best brake on the market. And who knows? Your favorite might just take the top spot. Take the survey and let your voice be heard. Thanks for your support! See you soon, Your ENDURO test crew