The most important facts in brief

The Maven has been redesigned from the ground up. While the stealth brake lever was already used in the revised Level and Code models, the 4-piston brake calliper is a new feature. Just as Sram now uses mineral oil instead of DOT brake fluid. Sram describes the Maven as its most powerful brake in the line-up. It uses two differently sized pistons (18 and 19.5 millimetres), which should generate 50 percent more braking force than the Code. The Ultimate line is the top version of the three Maven models. The tested brake with red brake calliper comes from a limited special series called "Expert Kit", which was only produced for the product launch. The standard model is available in black and silver.

First impression

With a total weight of just under 800 grams (front and rear, without brake discs), the Maven brake is on the heavy side. However, it is robustly constructed and has a very high-quality finish. The four screws that hold the two halves of the brake caliper together reinforce the massive look.
Both lines were shortened during assembly. The front brake was immediately ready for use, the rear brake had to be bled. This went quickly and without any problems. The pressure point and lever width can be adjusted without tools.

In use

For better comparison with other systems, the Maven was ridden with 180 millimeter brake discs at the front and rear throughout the summer. The organic pads were used.
At the same time as the individual test, another test bike with Maven equipment was available for three weeks, on which a 220 mm disc and a 200 mm disc were fitted at the rear. This also allowed us to gain experience with the large discs.

It took several descents for the pads and discs to grind into each other and develop their full braking power. The power is high, but not as brute as it is sometimes advertised. The braking behavior is very consistent and easy to control. In terms of responsiveness, there are "snappier" combinations from other manufacturers. On the other hand, there are no surprises when the brakes grab unexpectedly hard and "send" you over the handlebars. The Maven is on the safe side.

Even with 1000 Elevation losses in a row without a break, the Sram brakes always delivered full power. There was no fading, but the braking point often moved backwards. Just let go of the lever and the pressure point is back. The problem was not only noticed during the endurance test, it also occurred on the second test bike mentioned above, which was equipped with the large rotors.

Overheating, rubbing pads, fading brake rotors or annoying squeaking noises do not occur with the Maven. Quasi service by the book. In wet conditions and rain, the braking performance was only slightly weaker and always more than sufficient.

Conclusion

The modulation of the "Maven Ultimate" comes in the usual Sram manner and is therefore familiar. What is "new", however, is the high and, above all, very consistent braking power. Only on very long descents do you notice that slightly higher manual force is required. If the braking performance is maintained over a longer period of time, we can definitely speak of a new era. As far as the initial question is concerned, the answer is quite clear: the Maven is top.

Price: CHF 699.00 / EUR 699.00

Manufacturer

www.sram.com