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Magura developed the MT5 brakes for those that want brake performance of downhill brakes, or their MT7 line, but with some weight savings. Our friend, Josh, has been running the MT5 brakes. See what they think!
Overview
Earlier this year, I ran into one of the most confounding dilemmas any cyclist will encounter. I knew my new bike build would need the best brakes to give me confidence down the steep West Virginian declines I encounter every day, and ordinary brakes weren’t going to cut it. After days of research and contemplation, I eventually settled for the Magura MT5 Hydraulic Disk Brakes. Despite a few concerns, I am positive I made the right decision.
Basics Of The Magura MT5 Disc Brakes
Magura is a German company and that alone piqued my interest considering most bike components are made in Taiwan. However, I was convinced the MT5s were right for me when I discovered a video about a guy using these very brakes on a Sur Ron bike. If it worked great for a Sur Ron, it’d work well for my new downhill thrill ride, and I was right. I purchased the Magura MT5 Disc Brakes and 2 Magura Storm HC Brake Rotors.
The price was right, the handles were easy to switch for right and left installation, and they have excellent stopping power. With 4 pistons and a radial design, the brakes promised to deliver low fiction, less transmission loss, excellent modulation, and great braking power.
Flip Flop Design
The flip-flop design guarantees that the handle will work on the left or right. Although it seems like a minor pro, it made a big difference since it is easier for a new bike builder to buy one model. I know I’ve bought the right brakes since they can easily be flipped for installation on either side of the handlebar. At a time when everything is out of stock, this made it easier to get everything I needed too.
Peace Of Mind
Magura offers a 5-year leakproof warranty on its hydraulic disc brakes. Although I am confident these brakes are going to last, anything could happen. If I get 5 years out of these brakes, I’ll have spent my money wisely. If not and I experience a leak, I am sure Magura will work with me to resolve the problem.
Convenience & Power
Having never assembled a full bike, I was a bit worried I’d run into issues at some point. Ultimately, I did but I didn’t have a problem with Magura’s MT5 Brakes. They’re easy to install thanks to the flip-flop lever design and informative online videos. I easily managed to install the caliper before installing the lever. Although I had to shorten both cables and internally route them, there was no need to bleed either brake. They paired great with the Storm HC Disc Rotors.
I haven’t needed to change the pads yet, but I believe it’ll be easy enough. The MagnetiXchange System is really cool. I’ve pulled them out and it works well but holds the pads in securely too.
Tedious Adjusting
I’ve been using the Magura MT5 Brakes for a few weeks now and really like them. The only minor hiccup I’ve found is attempting to center the rotor. Moving the caliper around is easy enough since it only requires a Torx T25 screwdriver or wrench. However, the calipers are incredibly close leaving little room for error, especially when using a 2mm thick rotor.
I’ve managed to get it close, but it has required extreme patience, a flashlight, and a piece of typing paper. Be ready to spend some time perfecting the caliper’s alignment to eliminate brake rub.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I am impressed with the MT5 Brakes from Magura. They match the MT7 in terms of power and performance, but they are reasonably priced. I haven’t had any problems with the carbotecture material and doubt I will. A crash could say otherwise, but a crash could damage any brake lever. If you’re looking for a great pair of hydraulic brakes that could stop a locomotive, I would recommend the Magura MT5. Just go easy on the lever and be ready to spend an hour or so aligning the caliper.
March 24, 2022
Hydraulic Brakes › Magura › Rider Review ›
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FAQs
The Magura MT7 utilize the Magura Series 8 brake pads which are 1 pad per piston, or 4 per caliper. The MT5 comes stock with 2 pads per caliper. Levers are fairly close however the MT7 is a bit more sculpted. The MT5 and MT7 do not have interchangeable levers.
What are the most powerful Magura brakes? ›
AWARD-WINNING BRAKING PERFORMANCE
This manufacturing method gives the calliper its extraordinary degree of rigidity, making the MT7 Pro one of the strongest and most easily-modulated brakes on the market.
Are Magura brakes good? ›
The Magura MT7 HC3s are a good option for riders who want a relatively powerful brake, but prioritize a short lever throw and firm bite point and are willing to forgo a little bit of outright power as compared to some of the latest crop of big, gravity-oriented brakes to get there.
Do Magura MT5 come with brake pads? ›
The difference with the Magura MT5 from the Magura MT7 brake caliper is that it is painted rather than polished, the lever blade is aluminium, it has a tooled bite point adjuster and it also comes fitted with the cheaper 9. P Performance series brake pads.
What is the difference between Magura MT5 and MT5 pro? ›
The Pro variant we tested relies on the shorter HC one-finger lever rather than the 2-finger lever found on the standard variant., Reach adjustment is via a 3 mm Allen key (rather than MAGURA's usual T25). You won't find the additional adjustment features you might expect from the top-tier MT7 model.
Can you use Shimano levers with Magura brakes? ›
In reality any of the XX2X or XX1X series of levers from Shimano will work as they are all 4 piston capable. Everything on the Magura Caliper end stays the same. You must use the Shimano hose barbs and olives. L to R is Magura, Sram and Shimano.
What brakes do Tour de France use? ›
In fact, many still hark back to that time now, however, on a wet mountain descent the control and modulation disc brakes provide is certainly not something riders complain about. 2022 was the last Tour de France to be won on rim brakes and since then every team has used disc brake framesets.
Are Magura rotors thicker? ›
The Magura rotors are thicker than most, that is all.
What brakes do professional cyclists use? ›
The majority of high-performance cyclists use disc brakes. This system is recommended for those who cycle with frequent speed changes, aim for personal records, or participate in group cycling. Disc brakes allow better control of the bicycle in quick and agile manoeuvres, essential in races and intense training.
Are Magura brakes mineral or dot? ›
Why does Magura use Magura Royal Blood mineral oil and not DOT brake fluid? Unlike brake fluid mineral oil does not age with time and therefore offers consistent performance over many years. Furthermore brake fluid absorbs water over time, which leads to a loss of heat resistance and a reduction of the boiling point.
Magura MT7 Pro brakes bottom line
Magura's four-piston brakes have ample power ready to be deployed. The application of that power won't suit every rider, with a softer, malleable lever feel that doesn't feel particularly snappy.
When should I replace my Magura pads? ›
Check pads for contamination:
Pads that have been contaminated by oil or other friction reducing substances, must be replaced. Contaminated pads cannot be restored by cleaning or removing some of the pad surface. Please also note, that some detergents can leave a thin, friction reducing film.
What is the difference between magura MT5 and MT7 caliper? ›
Both feature forged aluminum calipers for maximum strength and weight savings. The Magura MT7 utilize the Magura Series 8 brake pads which are 1 pad per piston, or 4 per caliper. The MT5 comes stock with 2 pads per caliper. Levers are fairly close however the MT7 is a bit more sculpted.
Can you use Shimano fluid in Magura brakes? ›
shimano and magura brakes both use mineral oil as the brake fluid, so its fine to use shimano oil in magura brakes (or vice versa) and theres no need to clean out all the magura oil , you can mix it up.
Do Magura brakes work with Shimano rotors? ›
Minimum Rotor Thickness
Because of the greater thickness on Magura rotors when new and worn it is suggested to pair Magura brakes with Magura rotors. SRAM & Shimano rotors minimum thickness is 1.5mm. Less than 1.5mm is worn. Shimano Ice-Tech rotors should be replaced if any aluminum surface is visible.
What is the difference between the MT7 and the MT7 pro? ›
The big differences are that it doesn't have as many tool-free adjustments and the lever material is a thicker carbon and the blade is also a bit heftier. The brake has a slightly different feel that some athletes prefer, but it's the same system as the MT7 when it comes to the guts.
What is the difference between Super Dot 4 and Dot 5? ›
While both fluids are glycol ether based, DOT4 contains a certain amount of borate ester, which allows it to handle more heat. DOT5 is a silicone-based fluid that was developed for use where moisture or water is almost certain to be a factor in the braking system, such as motorcycle applications.
How thick are Magura MT7 discs? ›
Rotor Thickness: 2mm. Rotor Diameter: 220mm. Brake Compatibility: MT7 PRO, MT5 eSTOP, MT5.
What is the difference between the mt07 and the mt07 Lams? ›
So what's the difference? Back in 2014 to 2015, it amounted to the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) machine displacing 655cc, with a 2mm smaller cylinder bore than the 689cc HO model. Respective peak performance stats were 53hp (39kW) versus 76hp (56kW) max power and 57.5Nm versus 68Nm peak torque.
![Magura MT5 Disc Brake and Lever [Rider Review] (2024)](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABCAQAAAC1HAwCAAAAC0lEQVR42mP8/h8AAvMB+NzmkbcAAAAASUVORK5CYII=)