Final Review of the Hope Tech M4 Hydraulic Brakes for Mountain Bikes can be found by clicking here.
Hope Tech just sent in the all new for 2009 Hope Tech M4’s in for review. So what is new for these brakes in 2009?
From Hopetechusa.com
M4 Levers
New! Ambidextrous ‘flip flop’ design, CNC machined from a solid billet of 2014 T6 aircraft spec aluminum alloy – with a split clamp to allow easy set up and choice of positioning.
New! Redesigned piston, lever and pivot assembly with external ‘on the fly’ reach and bite point adjustment dials. The new lever linkage eliminates free play in the lever giving a consistent and reliable feel to the brake. Further developments include bearing lever pivots for smooth, rock free use and increased lever ergonomics with a perforated lever for extra grip and feel. Also, a double sided reservoir lid makes for easy bleeding. The master cylinder assembly is completed with our durable anodized finish to withstand weather, cleaning and general trail use and a choice of either hi tensile polyester reinforced or Goodridge stainless steel braided hose to give a sharp, solid feel to the system.
M4 Caliper
NEW! Revised one piece caliper, CNC machined from a solid billet of 2014 T6 aircraft spec aluminum alloy. The M4 caliper has been developed for 09’, primarily the two piston sizes have now become the same 16mm diameter (as opposed to a small and a large) which gives more usable power to the brake. A drip free bleed nipple and wide angel orientation of the fluid inlet connector have also been added, allowing for neater hose routing and cleaner servicing.The unit is completed with our durable anodized finish to withstand weather, cleaning and general trail use and laser etched graphics. A hi-tensile polyester reinforced hydraulic hose is used to give a sharp, solid feel to the system. (Goodridge braided hose option also available)
MEDIA: The M4 caliper has been used by Team MBUK/Bike Radar’s Marc Beaumont to win World Cup DH rounds, as well as ‘Joe Average’ on his weekend thrash in the woods – making this one of the most versatile brakes in the range.]
MTB by 198 Test Hope Tech M4 Brakes
The specific model brakes that Hope Tech sent over uses the 183mm floating rotor and hi-tensile polyester reinforced hydraulic hose. The 183mm diameter makes them more adaptable to different bike configurations and the floating rotor (aluminum inner spider) cuts down on the rotor weight.
Out of the box, the Hope Tech M4‘s are impressive. The aluminum machining and finish on this set is unlike anything else on the market right now. I am going to throw these brakes on several different sleds to really get a feel how they perform in different trail conditions. They are going to hit the Niner Jet 9 first and then it is time for the heavy bikes! Stay tuned to see the results…
Actual Weights Using an Ultimate Digital Alpine Scale
- Front Brake Caliper/Lever/Line – 270g
- Rear Brake Caliper/Lever/Line – 280g
- 183mm Hope Floating Rotor – 140g
