SRAM's New Motive Brakes: Merging Power and Precision for the Next Generation of Riders
Mountain biking is faster, more demanding, and more diverse than ever before. Riders push boundaries across disciplines, tackling everything from gnarly downhill descents to fast-paced XC races. To match this evolution, SRAM has introduced the Motive brake lineup—a revolutionary replacement for the Code and Level brakes, combining the best of both worlds: Code’s powerhouse stopping performance with Level’s featherlight weight. The result? A brake system built for modern riders who refuse to compromise on power, weight, or control.
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A New Era of Braking: Motive Steps Up
SRAM’s new Motive brakes bring a fresh perspective to braking by blurring the lines between heavy-duty stopping power and cross-country agility. Instead of forcing riders to choose between robust DH-level performance or lightweight XC brakes, Motive offers both.
At its core, the Motive brake system provides Code-like power with Level-like weight, creating a category-defying solution for aggressive trail riders, enduro racers, and even XC shredders. This is SRAM’s answer to the modern rider’s need for adaptable, confidence-inspiring braking performance.
The Motive Lineup: Precision-Tuned Stopping Power
The Motive family consists of several models, each tailored for different riding styles, but all built with four-piston calipers, SRAM’s DirectLink technology, and designed to use Maxima Mineral Oil for consistent, low-maintenance performance. Here’s how the lineup breaks down:
Motive Ultimate
The flagship of the Motive range, the Ultimate model is crafted for top-tier riders demanding both power and finesse. Featuring a carbon lever blade with bearing pivot, and titanium hardware, it offers supreme strength at a minimal weight. The caliper’s Bleeding Edge port ensures quick and drip-free maintenance, while tool-free reach adjustment lets riders fine-tune the lever position with ease.
Its Blasted Clear anodized finish with polished machined edges not only offers a sleek, modern aesthetic but also perfectly complements SRAM’s AXS wireless cockpit for a streamlined, high-performance look.
Motive Ultimate Expert Kit: Everything You Need for Perfect Brake Tuning
For riders who demand the ultimate in brake customization, SRAM offers the Motive Ultimate Expert Kit—a fully loaded, limited-edition box designed for fine-tuning your braking performance. The kit includes a split caliper finish with a striking teal splatter anodized design on one half and bold black on the other, creating a unique and aggressive look. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to optimize your setup: four HS2 rotors (1x 220mm, 2x 200mm, 1x 180mm), both organic and sintered XL brake pads for variable conditions, and a Pro Mineral Oil Bleed Kit for easy maintenance. SRAM even includes a custom travel bag to keep your rotors safe on the go. Whether you’re chasing podiums or dialing in your personal best, the Motive Ultimate Expert Kit gives you the tools to fine-tune your braking power and control for any trail or race condition.
Motive Silver
Designed for the everyday trail ripper, the Silver model shares the same four-piston power but swaps in an aluminum lever blade for a balance of durability and affordability. It retains the tool-free reach adjustment, making on-the-fly tuning a breeze. The polished black anodized finish gives it a stealthy, no-nonsense look.
Motive Bronze
The entry-level Bronze model doesn’t skimp on performance. It boasts the same four-piston caliper but with steel hardware and a blasted black finish for a rugged aesthetic. While it lacks some of the weight-saving premium materials, it offers uncompromising stopping power and reliability.
Why Motive Stands Out: Power, Modulation, and Control
The Motive brakes don’t just offer more power—they offer more tunable power. SRAM’s design provides riders with surplus power on demand, which can be fine-tuned by adjusting rotor sizes and pad compounds.
Rotor Options
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HS2 rotors deliver 7% more stopping power and better heat management compared to CenterLine rotors. Perfect for long, demanding descents.
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CenterLine X rotors feature an aluminum carrier to shave grams off your build, catering to weight-conscious riders.
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Rotor size options range from 160mm to 220mm, with every 20mm increase boosting power by 14%.
Pad Choices
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Sintered brake pads offer superior heat resistance and excel in wet, muddy conditions—ideal for prolonged downhill runs.
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Organic pads provide a strong initial bite with quieter performance, making them perfect for XC and trail riders seeking sharp, responsive braking.
DirectLink for Consistent Power
Motive brakes feature SRAM’s DirectLink lever design, ensuring a linear power delivery from the moment you squeeze the lever. This creates a consistent feel throughout the entire lever stroke, offering predictable and precise control—a game-changer for technical terrain.
Built for the Long Haul: Mineral Oil Performance
In a major shift, SRAM has moved away from DOT fluid and now exclusively uses Maxima Racing Oils' mineral oil for the Motive range. Why?
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Hydrophobic properties prevent water absorption, significantly reducing the need for frequent bleeding.
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More consistent performance across varying temperatures and conditions.
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Easier maintenance, making Motive a low-maintenance, high-performance choice.
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Motive vs. Maven: Which is Right for You?
While Motive focuses on heavy-duty power in a lightweight package, SRAM’s Maven brakes are designed for the most extreme-duty scenarios. Maven uses larger pistons and prioritizes raw power for downhill and gravity riders. In contrast, Motive balances power and weight, making it ideal for aggressive trail and enduro riding, and even XC racers seeking more control without a weight penalty.
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Who Should Ride Motive?
The SRAM Motive brake family is for riders who demand power, modulation, and reliability without compromise. Whether you’re tackling long alpine descents, charging through technical enduro stages, or looking for extra control on fast XC courses, Motive has you covered.
If you’ve been torn between the SRAM Code’s power and the Level’s weight-consciousness, Motive finally offers the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts: SRAM Motive Redefines Braking
With the Motive lineup, SRAM has created a new benchmark for braking performance—one that refuses to compromise on weight, power, or consistency. By combining Code-level power with XC-ready weight, Motive gives riders the confidence to push harder, brake later, and ride faster.
SRAM Motive brakes are on our shelves right now, ready to elevate your riding experience with its category-defining blend of power and precision. Whether you're chasing podiums or personal bests, Motive will have your back—every ride, every corner, every time.
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