Ever heard of a brake brand that's breaking into the mountain biking scene from the aerospace industry? That's Raicam, and they're bringing a fresh perspective to MTB brakes. This Italian company, known for its work in automotive and aerospace, is now offering a compelling selection of brakes for enduro, downhill, and cross-country riding.
I was immediately intrigued when I stumbled upon Raicam's RGR and RXC brakes. What caught my eye wasn't just the novelty of a new brand, but also the promise of something different. I'm not a fan of the super-powerful brakes that dominate the market; I prefer brakes that offer finesse and modulation. Think Shimano XTR or Hayes Dominion A4s – brakes that respond delicately to the touch.
Raicam claims their RGR and RXC brakes deliver exactly that: a light lever feel, plenty of modulation, and a straightforward bleed process. They even offer an extra step to fine-tune the lever throw for optimal performance.
Raicam: Who Are They?
Raicam has a rich history in aerospace and automotive, producing components for cars and planes. Now, they're channeling their expertise into mountain bike brakes. This move mirrors the approach of HEL MTB, which is another brand that has a passion for mountain biking.
Raicam's brakes are built on years of experience in cooling, friction management, and industrial design. They've been working with a team of Italian athletes to develop the RXC and RGR brakes. Raicam's focus is on modularity and progression, targeting riders who want a more adjustable braking system.
The Cost and Availability
These brakes aren't cheap, and they're not yet available in North America. With an estimated price of 800 Euros, they'll be a premium option for riders seeking a unique set of brakes. However, with their unique design and fresh approach, it's exciting to see a new brake on the market that isn't solely designed for eMTB use.
The Brake Lineup
Raicam offers two main brake models: the RGR for enduro and all-mountain, and the RXC for cross-country. Each model comes in three levels: Racing, Factory, and Performance. The lower-tier models use a bushing pivot for the lever blade, while the top-spec Factory brakes use a micro-bearing and bushing for a smoother lever feel. The top-end RGR brakes feature a steel-copper braided hose, while the Factory and Performance models use a Kevlar hose.
Raicam RGR: Enduro 4-Piston Brakes
- Build Levels: Race, Factory, and Performance
- Caliper: Forged and machined with 4 x 17mm pistons
- Lever Body: Forged and machined
- Fluid: Mineral Oil
- Adjustments: Tool-free lever adjust on Performance, tool-free lever and free-stroke on Factory and Racing
- Hoses: RGR Race uses a steel-copper braided hose; Factory and Performance use Kevlar braided hoses.
- Design: Mirrored lever design
- Disc Compatibility: Compatible with 2mm and 2.2mm discs
- Pad Options: Ceramic and Ceramic+ (Ceramic+ offers more bite, while ceramic pads provide more modulation). Compatible with Shimano brake pads.
RGR Brakes Weight
- RGR Race: Lever: 143g, Caliper: 110g
- RGR Factory: Lever: 148g, Caliper: 110g
- RGR Performance: Lever: 144g, Caliper: 110g
Raicam RXC: 2-Piston XC Brakes
- Features: Forged caliper and lever body with reach adjust only
- Caliper: Single-piston calipers in post and flat mount options
- Fluid: Mineral oil system with Kevlar braided hoses
- Build Levels: Race, Factory, and Performance
- RXC Race: More machining on the caliper and lever body, with a carbon lever.
- RXC Factory: Forged alloy lever and less machining on the lever body.
- RXC Performance: Less machining on the caliper and lever body, with a forged-alloy lever.
- Disc Compatibility: Compatible with 2mm and 2.2mm discs
- Pad Options: Ceramic and Ceramic+
RXC Brakes Weight
- RXC Race: Lever: 78g, Caliper: 77g (post mount), 92g (flat mount)
- RXC Factory: Lever: 94g, Caliper: 77g (post mount), 92g (flat mount)
- RXC Performance: Lever: 108g, Caliper: 94g (post mount only)
About the Author
Deven grew up in southern Oregon and has worked in almost every job in the cycling industry. He advocates for making the sport accessible to everyone.
So, what do you think? Are you intrigued by Raicam's entry into the MTB market? Do you prefer brakes with more modulation and finesse, or do you prefer maximum power? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
