Sweet Home Chicago - The SRAM Brand and Its Product World
SRAM was founded in 1987 in the US city of Chicago and has since developed into one of the most important companies in the bicycle industry. This development is all the more impressive given that SRAM originally only produced shifters. The so-called Grip Shift grips were used on road bikes and triathlon bikes at the end of the 1980s and soon after became a bestseller on the then newly emerging mountain bikes. Since then, SRAM has grown steadily and today - also thanks to the support and integration of promising manufacturers and brands into the SRAM family - is one of the most important suppliers of high-quality bike components after Shimano.
This also applies to the bicycle brake sector. In addition to brands such as RockShox and ZIPP, the brake specialist Avid is also part of the SRAM Group. The brake systems from SRAM therefore incorporate decades of know-how from Avid. The US manufacturer offers an extensive range of rim brakes and disc brakes of all kinds, which are used on road bikes, gravel bikes, mountain bikes and trekking bikes.
From Mountain Bike to Road Bike - These SRAM Brakes Are Available
In times when hydraulic disc brakes now adorn almost every high-quality bike, SRAM's hydraulic brake systems are particularly popular. The reason for this is the many innovative detailed solutions: For example, the pressure point and grip width can be adjusted according to individual preferences and needs. SRAM models are also very easy to bleed. The calipers are almost completely self-aligning during installation. Changing the brake pads is also very easy. SRAM also sets standards in terms of the ergonomics and operability of the lever blades.
SRAM has hydraulic disc brakes for mountain bikes and electric road bikes in its range, as well as mechanical disc brakes. SRAM offers the largest selection of disc brakes for MTB and E-MTB, so you can find the right disc brake for your specific area of use. The disc brakes for gravel and road bikes are available to match the four component groupsets from SRAM. These brake systems are all based on the same model in terms of design, but they differ in details such as the materials.
Good to know: When we talk about a disc brake, we always mean the combination of the lever blade, the brake hose, the caliper, the brake pads and the disc.
Depending on the model variant, SRAM brakes are offered as front or rear wheel versions or as a complete set. However, the discs are offered separately and for good reason: the Centerline brake disc range contains tens of variants of different sized brake discs for different areas of application - for 6-bolt or Centerlock mounting if required.
SRAM MTB Brakes
With MTB disc brakes, the brake lever and shifter are separate components for maximum control and perfect alignment on the handlebars.
In the following overview, we have listed the range of SRAM MTB brakes. But please note: We only mention the different model series here. These include model variants in different versions - depending on the requirements profile and bike.
- SRAM Code: The SRAM Code is a hydraulic 4-piston disc brake with maximum braking power for downhill, enduro and freeride.
- SRAM Level: The SRAM Level is a lightweight 2-piston hydraulic disc brake for cross-country and trail use with perfect modulation.
- SRAM G2: The SRAM G2 is a hydraulic 4-piston disc brake optimized for lightweight construction with perfect operability and high power for all-mountain and enduro use.
- SRAM BB5 & BB7 Mountain: Mechanical disc brakes for MTB, trekking and touring bikes.
SRAM Road and Gravel Brakes
In the groupsets for road bikes and gravel bikes , the disc brakes are always part of the system and are permanently connected to the respective brake/shifter of the groupset.
Good to know: Brake/shifters and brakes are usually always offered as a unit in retail stores. In addition, all current groupsets for road and gravel are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. However, you can also buy mechanical rim brakes from all model series for an older road bike or CX bike.
These road bike and gravel groupsets are available from SRAM - each with a corresponding brake system:
- SRAM Red: The top SRAM groupset for those who want the best of the best in terms of braking and shifting components.
- SRAM Force: The SRAM Force is an excellent high-end shifting system at a mid-range price. It is ideal for demanding road cyclists and gravel enthusiasts who do not want to compromise on quality.
- SRAM Rival: With the SRAM Rival you get a solid brake system for entry into the world of ambitious cycling. The brake systems are still lightweight, yet robust and reliable without breaking the budget.
- SRAM Apex: The SRAM Apex is the entry-level option for anyone looking for a reliable but affordable braking system. It offers basic but reliable performance for everyday riding and light sporting activities.
- SRAM BB5 & BB7 Road: Mechanical disc brakes for road bikes and gravel bikes.
The Optimal Accessories for Brakes from SRAM
In addition to the classic brake systems, SRAM has also developed a few clever detailed solutions as accessories:
- Matchmaker: this practical clamp allows the combined mounting of Code, Level and other SRAM MTB brake levers and shifters from the brand. This keeps the handlebars tidy and improves ergonomics.
- Aero brake levers: For road bike brakes, SRAM offers several different brake levers for mounting on basic and time trial handlebars. There are lever blades for hydraulic disc brakes and for mechanical brake systems.
Brakes From SRAM - Special Features to Look Out for When Buying
Whether mountain bike, electric bike, gravel bike or road bike - if you need a new disc brake or rim brake, you will find a large selection of innovative, high-quality products for every area of use and every quality level at SRAM. Finally, we have put together five tips for you below that you should pay particular attention to when buying your new SRAM brakes:
- Type of brakes: SRAM offers both hydraulic and mechanical brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes generally offer lasting high braking power and better modulation, but are also more complex if maintenance is required. Mechanical brakes are easier to maintain and often cheaper.
- Area of application: Depending on whether you are riding a mountain bike, road bike or gravel bike, a different type of brake is recommended. From the powerful 4-piston brakes for downhill use to the lightweight 2-piston models for road use, SRAM offers a wide range.
- Compatibility: Make sure that the brake you want to buy is compatible with your bike type and, if you ride a road bike, with your existing shifting. At SRAM, many brake models for road bikes are also available directly as a complete package with groupsets.
- Quality level: SRAM offers various groupsets from entry-level to professional level. The quality and price vary accordingly, so it is important to find the right balance between budget and requirements.
- Additional functions and accessories: Look out for special functions such as the option of individual pressure point adjustment, simple bleeding methods or compatible additions such as aero lever blades and matchmakers for clean mounting on the handlebars.
At BIKE24 you will find a large selection of SRAM brakes for road bikes and MTBs as well as matching Centerline discs and accessories, which can be delivered to you in no time at all.