SRAM Level TL Brakes – First Look

SRAM’s brake line-up has been undergoing a refresh, and the Level range is aimed at the aggressive XC rider, while the longer running Guide range remains the choice for DH smashing.

The Level has the usual spread of technologies and price points from the very simple Level and Level T, through the the TL that I have on test, the TLM and finally the Ultimate. As you go up the range, more features are present from split clamp matchmaker to heat shielding on the pads. The basics remain the same though, the master and slave cylinders and the principle of making sure every type of trail rider has a brake to suit their needs and budget.

You’ll recognise the look of the lever from the Guides, and indeed it’s pretty much the same. Reach adjustment is tucked inside via an allen key on all models, so you’ll need a long one on your multi-tool for on the trail adjustments. The levers look clean and tidy, and are ambidextrous so there’s no issue with going continental if you wish.

The two piston calipers differ a bit up the range, the TLM and Ultimate remind me of the classic Juicy in their look, while the TL looks smooth, slick and nicely finished, with a neat bleed port and hose routing. The pads follow the established set up and look dead easy to change, a far cry from Juicys!

Inside, a redesigned sealing and reservoir system keeps fluid where it should be and ensures any air is forced out of the system. DOT 5.1 fluid runs in the hoses and has a much higher boiling point than the previous DOT 4 fluid. Note of caution, DOT 5 fluid is NOT cross compatible with DOT 4 and DOT 5.1, worth being aware of, and while I can’t think of a mountain bike brake that uses it, you will find it in some motorsports shops (and the brakes on tanks). Bleeding is done using Avid’s screw in system of syringes.

The first couple of rides on them I’ve been impressed by the amount of power the small calipers will generate, and there’s been a very short bedding in time before they’ve felt great. The Avid/SRAM lever feel is really positive, with bags of modulation due in part to the longer lever blade. This does mean I’ve had to run them about 1.5cm further inboard than I would with Shimano, but with 800mm bars, who cares!?

Nothing gets riders arguing like the SRAM vs Shimano debate, but if you like a brake with bags of modulation for riding hard all day, these are going to be worth a look.

RRP £84.99 (No rotor)

SRAM