Eurobike: FSA launches disc stopper

The Italian-Taiwanese component specialist FSA is associated with add-on parts such as handlebars, stems, seatposts and cranks. Now a new segment is in its sights: FSA is launching two hydraulic mountain bike brakes for the 2014 season.

Brakes are the natural extension of FSA cockpit components, is the simple explanation for the launch of the new stoppers. The first products to add deceleration to the bike are K-Force and Afterburner models for XC-Race and Trail applications.

FSA K-Force stopper

FSA K-Force brake caliper

The lightweight K-Force brake - around 300 grams for the front brake including 160 mm disc - uses magnesium on the master and slave pistons, carbon on the lever and titanium hardware. Functionally, the Afterburner brake does not differ from the more expensive model, but it uses simpler materials. The stoppers should be available in the first quarter of 2014, with US prices currently estimated at $369 (K-Force) and $289 (Afterburner).

Afterburner Disc-Brake - this is what the complete FSA cockpit looks like

FSA Afterburner brake caliper

In terms of function and ergonomics, FSA relies on adjusting the lever width and adjusting the pressure point, as is standard. The master piston has a flip-flop design, which means that the lever fits on both the left and right side of the handlebars. The asymmetrical reservoir is integrated into the brake lever body and mineral oil flows through its innards as the braking medium.

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