IT’S HARD TO believe, but Clarks really do offer a fully hydraulic, adequately controlled brake for less than 30$ an end.
The first thing to point out is that the M2 only comes as a complete front and rear set (for 60$), which isn’t ideal if you only need one brake. The bundle also includes rotors and relevant brackets, so you’ve got everything you need if you’re starting from scratch but potentially more than you require if you’ve already got discs and mounts. The closed bar clamp also means you have to slide off your grips in order to fit the brakes.
The hose exit angle on the calliper is fixed, but the brake line does connect on the wheel side of the calliper to keep it safer from transport and crash damage. The lever syncs well with most shifters too, and the neat one-piece forged calliper gets a red anodised bore cap for a deceptively deluxe look. The M2 takes standard Shimano pads (even finned ones) that load easily from the top, bleeding is simple and the mineral oil in its veins is paint and eco friendly.
The only significant downside is a noticeable lack of stopping power, but that improves if you fit aftermarket pads and can always be boosted by going up a rotor size. Control and feel are significantly better than on most bargain brakes, and reliability of long-term sets we’ve run through recent years has been impressively consistent.
Weight: 475g
Price 30$
