Magura MT5
We were very impressed with the Magura MT5’s last year, and they took top honours in the group test. This year they faced a much harder battle. There’s a lot to like about the MT5’s: the MagnetiXchange pads magically lock themselves into the correct location, and the use of Royal Blood mineral oil is better for the environment. The long lever polarised our testers. Riders with small hands felt them too bulky, but those with bigger digits loved them. They have plenty of space for two-finger braking, however; with power like this, using two fingers would be like riding into a wall. We like the utilitarian look, although the materials used look a little cheaper than those used by their rivals.
During testing, braking torque and deceleration were brutal – but rich in German precision. Wet or dry, the Maguras hauled down speed quickly, and were nothing but reliable. Throughout a season of use they required very little attention, but they did eat pads quickly. The MT5’s are excellent brakes for those looking for a fit-and-forget option. Although they could not match the sublime feel and precision of the SRAM Guide Ultimate, they outclassed them when it comes to outright power and consistency. A fantastic brake for those looking for big power and gravity duties.
+ Massive power and control
+ Five-year warranty
– Poor pad wear
– Lever too big for small hands
Average Power [Nm]: 101,1
Weight: 248 g
Price: € 111
More info: magura.com
Table of Contents
- Intro: Anatomy of a good brake
- How we test in the lab and on the trails
- The best MTB disc brake: SRAM Guide Ultimate
- The Runner Up: Magura MT5
- Formula R0 Racing
- Hope Tech3 E4
- Hope Tech3 X2
- Magura MT4
- SRAM Guide RS
- SRAM Level Ultimate
- Shimano Deore
- Shimano Deore XT
- Shimano XTR
- Shimano Saint
- Trickstuff Direttissima
- Conclusion
