SRAM'S NEW AFFORDABLE DB5 is actually a mix of the DirectLink lever and body of their entry-level Guide R brake and the twin-piston calliper of the old Avid Elixir.
The hinged clamp gives
all the usual Matchmaker (SRAM's integrated control mounting system) shifter
and fork/ shock/seatpost remote syncing potential. There's no tool-free reach
adjuster knob on the lever though and modulation is adequate rather than amazing.
The twin-piston calliper drops power significantly lower than the four-piston
Elixir Trail and Guide brakes. The unique power-boosting lever swing geometry
compensates slightly but a 180mm rotor is still recommended for aggressive
riding. The fixed hose exit means an awkward fit on some bikes and it's
relatively heavy too.
WEIGHT 485g
POWER 95m/s-2
PRICE 190$
