This summer I had the opportunity to thoroughly test the new RM4 by Braking, a system that the Lombardy-based company positions as the entry-level of its catalogue, but which in reality hides interesting technical solutions and superior level performance.
Data Sheet
- 4-piston caliper: ensures a large braking surface and greater power management.
- Rotatable oil tank: allows for more precise adjustment of positioning, adapting better to the different cockpit geometries.
- Optimized hydraulic ratio: designed to provide a direct and powerful feel, maintaining stability and consistency even under stress.
- Lever travel adjustment: via a dedicated knob, with Allen key lock, for fine and safe customization.
The field test
Thanks to the availability of Braking I used the RM 4 for about three months, in very different scenarios: from bike parks (San Domenico and Lusentino) to the most technical and long alpine trails, up to descents over 900 meters in altitude.
The assembly was entrusted to a specialized center, the historic Cico Bike, now expertly managed by Brian PolettiAfter an initial phase of adaptation and adjustment of the lever travel, I started to really push: fast descents, exaggerated braking, prolonged trails without pauses to put the stability of the system to the test.
Downhill behavior
The verdict was surprising:
- constancy: no change in behavior, even after long continuous descents.
- Thermal stability: even in high mountains and with significant drops, the response remains identical from start to finish.
- Potenza: immediate and direct, with a distinctly personal character on-off. It takes sensitivity to modulate, but the security it conveys is remarkable.
The pills speech
I had the opportunity to test two types of Braking pads:
- Gold (carbometallic)
- Blue (World Cup)
Carbometallic (Gold)
- They require more force on the lever.
- They don't easily lock the wheel, even when pinching to the max.
- Ideal for less experienced bikers or for those who prefer progressive and more manageable braking, with a greater safety margin especially on dirt roads.
World Cup (Blue)
- Definitely more powerful and responsive.
- They allow for more incisive braking and better modulation, provided you have sensitivity on the lever.
- In case of a firm pinch, the deceleration is very strong, therefore requiring precision in dosing.
Interestingly, you might think that a more powerful brake is always the best choice, but the reality is different: The faster you go, the more high-performance components you need, while for an average biker less aggressive pads may be more suitable, because they are more “forgiving” in the event of errors.
In both cases, the consistency of performance does not change, even after very long and challenging descents.
Conclusions
The brake is one of the most important components of a mountain bike: beyond its technical function, it has a strong psychological impact. Knowing you can count on a reliable and powerful system means you can start riding with more confidence, allowing you to push yourself beyond your limits.
- RM4 by Braking They convey precisely this safety: solid, stable, consistent and with a power that never wanes, even on long and stressful descents.
With the pills World Cup I found the ideal combination for my riding style, thanks to the greater modulation and the possibility of playing with more margins in delicate situations such as braking on roots or nose presses.
Those who are not very confident in modulation will find in the carbometallic a more balanced and reassuring solution.
In summary:
- An entry-level brake only on paper, which behaves like a top-of-the-range one.
- Safety, stability and power are its main weapons.
- The choice of pads has a significant impact on the character, allowing it to be adapted to both the amateur and the more expert rider.
A confidence-inspiring brake, ready to bail you out when the going gets really tough.
