After having analysed all the features of SRAM Maven, here are some of the questions that may have flashed in your mind after reading the article.
Compared to the Code brakes, how much more power do the Mavens have?
At the highest level, the Mavens have approximately 50 percent more power than the Codes. The reason lies mainly in the larger diameter pistons and an optimized ratio between the lever pumping element and the huge pistons in the caliper.
Where can I find Maven brakes with the custom finish? What is the “Maven Ultimate Expert Kit”?
In the super-complete Maven Ultimate Expert kit there is everything you need to show up on the starting line with the most powerful brake from SRAM. The pair of limited edition “splash red” anodized Maven Ultimate brakes are the key component. With calipers accommodating huge 18- and 19.5-millimeter pistons, you have about 50 percent more power at your fingertips than the Codes. With all this base power, there's more scope to fine-tune the response of the brake exactly as you prefer, like never before. With these premises, the Maven Ultimate Expert kit is composed of four HS2 rotors in three different diameters (1 of 220mm, 2 of 200mm, 1 of 180mm) and XL pads in organic and sintered versions, for a total of 14 different combinations. A custom carrying bag keeps your rotors safe when you're on the go, and when you need them, there's also a Pro Mineral Bleed Kit with everything you need for maintenance. Whether you get on the podium or not, the Maven Expert Box has everything you need to find the winning combination.
Does the increased power of my Maven brakes increase pad and rotor wear?
The life of Maven brake pads and rotors is about the same – if not longer – than Codes.
Do the Maven XL pads have a specific compound?
Maven XL brake pads are available in organic and sintered versions. The compound of the pads is exactly identical to that of the L pads of the Code brakes, with the difference in the shape and size of the XL brake pads.
Why do the Maven's calipers have four screws instead of two?
The four screws on the Maven caliper are not there for show. They create a stiffer caliper, which decreases the dispersion of power caused by flexion, resulting in a more concrete response to the lever.
Why do the Maven pads insert from the bottom?
The Maven caliper has four screws holding the two parts together, resulting in a much stiffer caliper and a more responsive response to leverage. The four screws are positioned directly above the pads, which is why the pads must be inserted from below.
What are the dimensions of the Maven caliper pistons?
The Maven has 18 and 19.5mm diameter pistons.
Does the Maven maintain the same lever response typical of SRAM?
Yes. The Maven offers a leverage ratio that changes during action on the brake lever. The further you pull the lever towards the handlebars, the more power the Maven exerts on the pistons. It's what we call "progressive power" and it features all SRAM brakes with the Swinglink system.
Does the Maven use the Swinglink system?
Yes, it has a Swinglink optimized especially for the Maven, which turns raw power into one
progressive power, with the same lever response characteristic of SRAM.
Do Maven brakes have stealth levers?
Yes, the Maven takes advantage of the new Stealth architecture optimized for a clean handlebar, adapting perfectly with the openings and cable passages of current frames.
Why don't the Mavens have carbon levers?
The forged lever used by the Maven is the stiffest lever we have ever made and provides the rider with superior tactile response. Maven brakes are not compatible with other SRAM brake levers.
The Code Ultimate carbon levers look very similar, are they compatible with my Maven brakes?
No, there is no leverage compatibility between Codes and Maven. If a Code brake lever is fitted to a Maven, it may cause a system shutdown. This is a fundamental safety issue, therefore the use of Code levers on a Maven brake is not permitted.
If a system shutdown occurs, the pressurized circuit is isolated from the tank. As a result the brake would not be able to handle any fluid expansion that might occur.
Do Maven brakes use mineral oil or DOT?
The Maven is a mineral oil brake. In order for the Maven to meet our mineral oil brake requirements, we tested numerous lining materials until we found the composition that best resists heat. Made specifically to work with Maxima Mineral Brake Oil, developed together with SRAM, this proprietary seal material leverages its elastomeric characteristics for air sealing in both extreme heat braking conditions and cold weather temperatures. In other words, the material is able to return to its original shape when it is no longer subjected to pressure. Through the various phases of testing we have established that mineral oil offers the best performance (exceeding that offered by the DOT) and also allows for less maintenance.
Where do I find the identification code on my Maven brakes?
The Maven brake identification number is located on the bottom of the caliper, between the two mounting brackets.
Why don't Maven use cooling fins?
Maven pliers are designed to work hot. Built for greater thermal mass, the Maven's calipers take longer to heat up
and they keep excess heat under control, maintaining the optimal temperature without cooling down too quickly. When the clamp stays away from the positive and negative peaks
of temperature, the consistency of performance reaches entirely new levels
Do I need any special components to assemble the Maven?
For mounting the Maven, in case a 20mm adapter is needed to use a larger rotor, the new 20P-1 or 20P-2 supports are needed. The Maven is not compatible with
previous 20P mounts. However, they are compatible with all current SRAM brake hardware. When a 20mm adapter is needed, use the 20P-1 holder for the 180mm rotor and the 20P-2 holder for the 200 or 220mm rotors.
If I want to try a new pad compound, do I need to replace my rotor?
Yes, if you switch to a new pad compound, our advice is to fit new rotors. During running-in and use, all brake pad compounds deposit a light layer of the material that makes up the compound on the surface of the rotor. Depositing a different compound on a used rotor could lead to the creation of noise and reduce brake performance.
Will my Maven brakes work on any frame?
The Maven meet all SRAM mounting specifications on the frames.
How do I break in my Maven brakes?
See the video.
Do the Mavens have contact point adjustment (Contact Point Adjust) and lever distance adjustment (Lever Reach Adjust)?
The Maven Ultimate, Silver and Bronze all have Lever Reach Adjust, while the Maven Ultimate and Silver also have Contact Point Adjust.
Is my SRAM Maven mineral oil brake compatible with existing SRAM parts and hydraulic lines?
Yes, the Maven is compatible with the Stealth-a-Majig mount, olives, mounting pins,
SRAM hydraulic lines and with SRAM DOT grease.
What set of plumbing lines do the Mavens use?
The Maven Ultimate and Maven Silver use the Silver Banjo Disc Brake Hose kit, part number 00.5318.038.000.
The Maven Bronze uses the Double Compression SRAM Disc Brake Hose kit, part number 00.5318.036.000.
What SRAM pads do the Maven use?
They use the new pad format specific for Maven, which we have called XL. They are available with a sintered or organic compound. https://www.sram.com/en/service/articles/ SRAM-Brake-Pad-Overview
How often do I need to bleed my Maven brakes?
We recommend carrying out the complete draining and mineral oil replacement procedure every two years. The main reason for this longer interval compared to DOT brakes is that mineral oil does not absorb moisture.
Is the bleeding procedure for the Maven the same as for other SRAM disc brakes?
No, with the release of the new Maven hydraulic disc brakes, SRAM has updated the bleeding procedure for mineral oil MTB brakes to ensure all riders get maximum braking performance from their SRAM brakes. The bleeding procedure now includes the additional step of moving the pistons after completing the bleeding and before installing the wheel. This necessary phase allows the caliper pistons to be moved, helping to reduce the initial friction between the pistons themselves and the seals, reducing the space between the pads and allowing constant movement of the pistons. Complete procedures are found in the Mineral Oil Disc Brake Owner's Manual.
What should be done if DOT mineral oil purge fluid is accidentally used?
Unfortunately, the brake needs to be replaced. Contamination of the DOT brake fluid causes damage to the seals used in the mineral oil system and it would be unsafe to continue using the brakes. The same goes for incorrect use of mineral oil in a DOT brake system.
Are SRAM Maven mineral oil brakes compatible with mineral oils from other brake brands?
No. We have not tested other mineral oils and cannot guarantee their performance or safety. Damage resulting from the use of brake fluids other than Maxima Mineral Brake Oil is not covered by the warranty.
What is the correct brake fluid for my SRAM Maven brakes with mineral oil?
For Maven brakes, as for other SRAM brakes with mineral oil, you need Maxima Mineral Brake Oil, developed in collaboration with SRAM.
You can find it using the code 00.5318.030.000 – 4oz/120ml or 00.5318.030.001 – 16.9oz/500ml.
Do Maven brake calipers use the Bleeding Edge system?
Yes, they use a particular Bleeding Edge system specific for mineral oil. The 5mm connection size is specific to the Maven and only interfaces with the SRAM Mineral bleed kit
Oil. This is to ensure that SRAM bleeder kits for DOT fluid are not used. All Maven aftermarket brakes include the Bleeding Edge syringe coupling in the package
Fits current SRAM Mineral Oil Bleed kits that initially did not include the Bleeding Edge mount.
Why do the calipers on my Maven leak slightly at the top, where the two parts that compose them join? Is it the brake fluid?
It's not the brake fluid, it's the assembly grease. It is normal that a very small amount of assembly grease may be expelled from the two sections upwards when the brakes are new. You can wipe off the grease with a cloth.
Are Maven brakes more adjustable than other SRAM brakes?
They are no more adjustable than any other SRAM brake, but with the entry of the Maven for extreme use,
the range of SRAM brakes manages to satisfy all the needs required by current mountain bikes. The Code and DB8 are dedicated to heavy-duty uses, while the Level are suitable for less demanding rides. Choosing the right braking system depending on the intended use of the bike is the first step of customization, since the brake establishes the basic power from which to start for subsequent adjustments. Once the basic power has been chosen, to modify the power and response of the brake you can intervene on the type and diameter of the rotor, as well as on the compound of the pads.
How do I adjust the power of my Maven brakes?
On the Maven you can intervene on the diameter and type of the rotors, as well as on the choice of pad compound. We recommend starting the modifications by choosing the smallest rotor diameter allowed by the frame and fork.
How does rotor diameter affect the performance of my Maven brakes?
Every 20mm change in rotor diameter leads to 14 percent more mechanical power. It means that by switching from a 180mm rotor to a 220mm rotor the system increases its power by 28 percent. However, a rotor that is too large could lead to an insufficient operating temperature, while a smaller rotor, when it reaches the right operating temperature, could have greater power on the trail. By paying attention to the color of the spokes on the rotors (below the braking surface) you can understand how your rotors are working.
-A dark or bronze color means that their diameter is optimal.
-A purple or rainbow color means that the rotors are getting too hot and it would be better to switch to a larger diameter.
-If they are not colored it could mean that they are not reaching the correct temperature and it would be better to switch to a smaller diameter to achieve optimal performance.
Should I choose the organic or sintered compound for my Maven brakes?
The choice of pad compound can significantly influence the response qualities of your brakes. The choice could also be made depending on the conditions expected for the exit
by bike. Organic compound pads are perfect if you prefer a firm initial bite and less noise overall. They offer the best performance in drier conditions. Sintered compound pads are perfect if you are looking for the best resistance to situations
of prolonged heat. They also offer better performance in wet or muddy conditions.
What is the difference between HS2 and CenterLine rotors?
HS2 rotors deliver 7 percent more horsepower than CenterLine rotors. They have better heat management characteristics thanks to the heat-dissipating spoke finish, as well as the greater thickness (2.0mm).
