I’m a big fan of this design and I’ve been using Shimano’s XT version for about two years, with absolutely no failures or regrets. The Shimanos are exactly the same design but they operate using mineral oil instead of brake fluid.

The SRAM’s fit and finish is refined and confidence inspiring. The lever bodies and calipers are painted in an industrial gunmetal grey colour. The complete package came assembled with coated braided lines and they were pre-bled with D.O.T. fluid.

SRAM managed to integrate a seven-inch rotor up front by using a caliper designed for the rear. A six-inch rotor was provided for the rear.

The levers have a simple two-bolt clamp system and the calipers fit international standard mounts. No adapters were required at either end (I use a fork with a standard Q.R.) and it only takes a little time and patience to get the rotor centred between the pads using shims - which are provided. Once this is done, you’re set and you’ll never have to readjust this setting again - assuming you use a trick of mine.

When I first began using this set-up I had my share of problems. I’d have to realign and re-shim the calipers after every wheel removal. Here is a tech tip for this problem: Once the calipers are properly centred, and the rotors spin freely with no brake rub, put a small dab of white paint on each outer axle nut at the highest point (or the centre when looking down). If you ensure these marks are in the same position when you reinstall your wheel your rotor will not rub.

Out on the trail the levers have a firm feel with good modulation. They do however require some muscle to get them to lock up, especially for one finger braking. I always felt confident and under control when riding with the SRAMs. They never made noise or showed any signs of fading, and they seemed to get better after a few rides (or was I just that I was getting used to them?).