Issue #031 Review

The Lab: SRAM Code RSC Review

10.01.2018
by
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In the “The Lab” we present the latest products and put them through their paces for you. Some undergo long-term tests, while we check others out only briefly. This time we reveal how the SRAM Code RSC brakes fared.

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The SRAM Code RSC not only offers massive power, but it is also very easy to modulate

“Power is nothing without control!” A guiding principle that fits perfectly with the new SRAM Code RSC. After more than six months of use, Christoph draws a very favourable conclusion about the revised brakes. He is particularly impressed with the great modulation of the Code. Although there are more powerful models on the market, none offer better control, especially in wet conditions. The pressure point is pleasantly defined, and the ergonomics of the lever are great. The only criticism he had is the annoying squeal of the sintered pads.

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The lever has a larger reservoir and makes the code so even more reliable. Nevertheless, heavy drivers are better off large 200 mm rotors.

Also, heavy riders are advised to mount 200mm rotors both front and rear so that they won’t fade on long descents. The organic pads proved to be a little more powerful, and the pad wear is as to be expected. As with all SRAM breaks, they can be mounted in combination with the shifter or reverb lever. The adjustment screws on the lever worked reliably and smoothly. Once you understand how it works the Bleeding-Edge connection makes bleeding significantly easier. The minimal weight penalty compared to the Guide is easy to overlook, and we hope to see more trail and enduro bikes fitted with Codes in future. Annoying, however: the rear calliper screw is difficult to reach with most tools when using the centring washers.

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The rear brake calliper screw has limited space

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a reliable brake with sufficient power, good durability and brilliant modulation, you will be happy with the new SRAM Code RSC!

Pros

  • good braking power
  • Ergonomics
  • high fading resistance with 200 mm discs

Cons

  • squeak in the wet
  • hard to reach screw on the calliper

Tester: Christoph
Test duration: 6 months

Price: € 270
More Info: sram.com

This article is from ENDURO issue #031

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ENDURO Mountainbike Magazine

ENDURO is the leading magazine for mountain bike technology and the modern trail riding lifestyle. We cover high-end bikes, global trends, and technical innovations – in-depth, bold, and always with an eye on the bigger picture. Our editorial approach speaks to everyone who sees mountain biking not just as a sport, but as a way of life. We view bikes as more than just the sum of their parts, evaluating products through the lens of real world riding rather than just on the spec sheet, testing bikes everywhere from alpine adventures to intense bikepark laps.

Since 2011, ENDURO has stood for journalistic quality and transparent reporting in the MTB segment. In our in-depth individual and comparison reviews, our specialist test team brings years of on-trail experience from around the world to deliver well-founded verdicts and real guidance for riders. Our awards are internationally recognized as a benchmark for innovation and quality in the bike industry, offering reliable orientation for readers, retailers, and manufacturers alike.

ENDURO is published in both German and English, reaching an international audience.