Technique

On test: Formula brakes R1X

Details

Parent Category: Technique

Category: Formula Brake

Published on Wednesday, 15 December 2010 06:39

Written by Luca Salvatelli

Excellent brakes, powerful and lightweight

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In the range of the model Formula R1 brakes is a very competitive product, as distinguished from a good price, but by light weight and excellent braking power. These features make it perfect for the XC, but also in the Freeride or All Mountain/Enduro. For 2011 the range is enriched with a model called R1X. The pump is of radial type with forged pistons, levers are aluminum, with the availability of carbon fiber levers, but you can adjust the distance of the levers from the handlebars. The monobloc calipers have pistons 22 mm. The discs are fitted with 6 screws and attack with a long series of lightening holes. The holes also help cool the disk and break the veil of mud and water, in case of adverse weather conditions. The discs are available in sizes of 160, 180, 203 mm in diameter. The hoses are braided carbon. The weight declared for the set of brakes is coucheth 263 grams, which must be added the weight of the disc from 180 grams to 160 mm version.

The road test

The set of brakes R1X Formula is perfectly made and finished. Moreover, an even more sophisticated, with levers and screws made of carbon fiber and titanium Alloy. Easy to assembly and disassembly plant, which has long tested has never shown signs of failure or maintenance requirements, demonstrating a high reliability. The ergonomics of the levers is perfect and always helpful and appreciated the opportunity to adjust the distance of the brake lever from the handlebars. This is easy to catch, but more difficult is the process in motion, because the screw is small and should pay attention that distracts from driving. However, even using heavy and cumbersome, the brake lever has never extended its run, so when you adjusted the distance from the handlebar lever in the shape of your hand, it is unnecessary to turn the screw. Excellent stopping power, coupled with a good scalability which allows a more precise control of braking. This helps a lot on the funds slimy. On deep compact and hard, when you can ask all the braking system shows that to get 100% of the services necessary to pull more strongly than other competitors, the levers. The difference is not enormous, nor likely to create difficulties, those with small hands or girls, on the other hand is the high level of scalability and total control of braking. àIn conclusion an excellent braking system, with a maximum force level of the best facilities and a high level of scalability. Only in the strong deceleration that we must act more forcefully on the levers, but nothing worrisome or difficult. Excellent resistance to fading and constant performance in the rain or with mud. èàThe price of the kit front and back is about 400 Euro in line with competitors and justified by the quality of the product.

Positive aspects

Product Quality
Stopping power
Modulation
Consistency of performance

Negative aspects
None

Read more:
Formula Brake
Website: www.formula-brake.it