The CR3 features a cartridge-type master, which improves power and modulation, plus it is super simple to service: The self-enclosed unit threads directly into the lever body. I took apart our test set and had it back together and bled in 10 minutes with no special tools. Like Formula’s RO brakes, the caliper pistons are actually oval, making more surface area–and thus, more power–than round pistons, but simpler than a four-piston system. The CR3 is best suited for aggressive trail riding.
Though the CR3 has
less muscle than the four-piston SRAM or Magura brakes, most riders won’t need
more than one digit to keep things in check. The pads bedded in quickly and ran
quiet for the duration of the test. Setup was a breeze, thanks to the genius hydraulic
quick connectors. Our test set came with the connectors installed on the master
and caliper, allowing bleed-free hose swaps and quick handlebar removal. Hoses
with these ‘Speed Lock’ connectors at both ends can’t be trimmed, so Formula decided
to ship CR3s with one at the caliper only so the hose can be trimmed at the
lever like any other brake. Formula does sell double-ended Speed Lock hoses in
10-centimeter increments, so a fully quickreleasable brake hose can be had for
some extra scratch.
Pad retraction isn’t
super, which caused rubbing. Also, I wasn’t thrilled with the lever feel. I
like to pull the levers close to the bar, but these start actuating almost at
the beginning of the stroke. Formula sells a pad contact adjuster as an add-on,
which would have been nice in this case. The CR3 is a good performer, but
ergonomics and lever feel keep it off the top of the list for me.
PRICE 205$ (per side, without rotor)
