Testing a brake for a few rides isn't enough. To truly understand the nature of a system, it takes time, consistency, and, above all, intense use.
That's why I mounted the Braking FIRST and I used them for over three months, without sparing them: long descents, real braking, trails where braking makes the difference between control and survival.
The goal was simple: to understand if there was real substance behind this aesthetically refined and openly performance-oriented system.
The first few weeks: power immediately evident (and some initial settling in)
During the first few days of use, I encountered some initial problems. Nothing dramatic, but it's worth mentioning because it's part of the real-world experience. Thanks to Braking assistance, the situation resolved itself quickly, and the system has performed consistently since then.
Once this phase was over, the character of Braking First emerged very clearly.
The verdict, if I must say it bluntly, is this: It's the most powerful brake I've ever tried.
Already with the gold-colored standard pads, which aren't even the most powerful in the range, the thrust is truly significant. The initial sensation is almost disconcerting: it takes a period of adaptation to learn to manage such high power and find the right progression.
Impressive front end and real advantage on long descents
The most striking thing is thefront.
With very little index finger strength a significant braking force is released, almost excessive if you are not ready to manage it.
But this becomes a huge advantage in the detached and especially in long descents, where having to apply less force to the lever translates into less fatigue and more clarity when the trail continues to demand precision.
It's not just a question of raw power: it's a power that, once understood, can be harnessed very effectively.
Modulation and sensitivity: not an “easy” brake, but very rewarding
The braking is progressive and it is well modulated, but it must be said clearly: requires sensitivity.
It is not a brake that forgives a heavy or distracted hand, especially at the beginning.
That said, when you find your balance, the feeling is truly satisfying. The response is immediate, the modulation is precise, and the effort management rewards with a high level of control. It's one of those brakes that doesn't make your life easier, but it does. allows you to raise the level, if you have the technique to do so.
Bike setup and braking management: unforgiving here
During the test I realized a fundamental aspect: with an incorrect bike setting, this brake becomes difficult to manage.
In particular, with the mono shock absorber is slightly softer than usual and consequently a front plus exhaust, braking management became complicated. The power of the Braking First tended to undermine the balance of the bike, making control less natural, especially under more decisive braking.
In reverse, working on the setupa front more loaded and a more sustained set-up, the brake changed character completely: the power remained the same, but it finally became usable, precise and consistent with the dynamics of the bike.
This confirms something very clear: it is not a brake that fits everything and everyone, but a system designed for those who look for performance e He knows exactly what he wants from the brake and from his bike.If you have a good feel for the setup, this brake becomes an incredible ally. If the setup isn't right, however, it tends to highlight every mistake.
On which bike does it make the most sense?
After three months of use, I have a pretty clear idea: This is a brake that I see as more natural on e-bikes and DH bike, rather than on my Commencal Meta V5 muscular.
The reason is simple: a heavier bike needs a very powerful brake. On a muscular enduro bike weighing around 15 kg, however, this power can be almost oversized, unless you are deliberately looking for a very “race” system.
It doesn't mean it won't work on a muscle bike, but it probably will. it's not the most balanced choice for everyoneIn this sense, within the Braking range there are more “human” solutions for classic enduro use, such as the systems I tested last summer Read the test
Maintenance: The price to pay for maximum performance
However, there is one aspect to consider carefully: the maintenance.
Probably due to the very high power involved, it may happen that small bubbles form inside the system, making it necessary to carry out purges more frequently compared to simpler and less extreme brakes.
Here the speech is very clear: High-performance products require greater attention.
A Ferrari can't have the same maintenance as a small car, and the same goes for these brakes.
If you're looking for a system you can set up and forget about, this probably isn't the right choice. However, if you want maximum performance and are willing to accept a few extra adjustments, the compromise makes sense.
Details and construction: racing mentality
The processing CNC and the attention to detail tell a lot about the philosophy with which this brake was designed.
Every solution goes in the direction of safety and reliability in the race.
An example is the Allen key that locks tightening screws and adjustments: to access each adjustment, you first have to loosen a small Allen key, then adjust it, and finally close everything again. It's not the quickest system, but the goal is clear: Once adjusted, nothing should move anymore.
It's a typically racing approach, where nothing is left to chance.
Conclusions
Braking First are brakes very high performance, with a power that represents a true reference.
They give their best on e-bikes, heavy bikes and gravity uses, while on a muscular enduro they can be excessive if you are not a technically advanced rider or if you are not deliberately looking for a very advanced system.
These are brakes designed for those who want push hard, is willing to take into account a little more attention and appreciates the build quality and attention to detail.
Final personal consideration: CNC machining and finishing level These are premium features that, in themselves, explain why this brake is so well-regarded. It's not a product for everyone, but for the right target audience, it can become a benchmark.
