The Level Series hydraulic disc brake systems are now SRAM's SRAM XC/Trail hydraulic disc brake. The Level takes it cues, and much of it's technology from the Guide design, and is the natural replacement for, and improvement to, the holdover brake technology from SRAM's purchase of Avid. This complete rear brake system comes pre-bled, and the lever is ambidextrous for you moto aficionados. SRAM doesn't develop and engineer technology for catchy names or to justify their existence, but to improve the experience of the cyclist by redefining high performance. There is much to discuss about the Level TLM, but the quick differences from the top end Level Ultimate come down to: bushing instead of bearing for lever pivot, aluminum blade instead of carbon blade, stainless steel hardware instead of titanium, and steel-backed organic pads instead of alloy backed. These differences do mildly affect top performance, but only add 38 grams. If you are a tech head, settle in. If you are confident looking for SRAM's barely second tier brake for XC/Trail use, simply select from the drop down menu, then go back and do the same with the front brake.

At 273 grams for the rear pre-bled 1800mm unit with caliper, hose, and lever, the Level TLM is a highly competitive system by weight at the price point. The improvements will make you forget the grams. The two piston caliper is housed in a forged Monoblock construction for post mount interfaces and this rear design was built for 140mm rotors; adaptable to 160, 180 or 200mm use. The two 21mm pistons are more than adequate for XC/Trail use. SRAM uses a Heat Shield stainless steel heat shield system to break the thermal connection between the pad and caliper body, reducing caliper fluid temperature by about 20°C even in the most extreme testing conditions. Heat is further managed by the use of DOT 5.1 fluid, which has a boiling point nearly 3 times higher than 4.0. Even in the most extreme braking conditions and high air temperatures it is nearly impossible to reach the boiling point. That means your brakes will never fade, supplying even, tactile pressure no matter how steep the descent.

The Level TLM lever assembly and hydraulic system has been designed for ease of use and serviceabilty- often a challenge with SRAM's brakes. The DirectLink lever itself is a smooth-shaped aluminum unit with a great feel. The structure ensures stiffness, and it is light weight. The shape is fairly straight, with a leverage hook at the end that means 1 or 2 finger braking is your choice. It pivots on a smooth bushing system which feels free and consistent under pressure and on return. There is a manual reach adjust accessed from within the lever crotch, and you need a 2mm hex key to get the job done. The lever body is made from aluminum, and houses the Expandable Bladder fluid system, The bladder expands to manage potential air issues and keeping the fluid at constant pressure during use. The bladder is accessed through the top cover, and the service process is fairly straightforward in conjunction with the dedicated caliper-based Bleeding Edge Tool. The execution of the lever/ fluid service is a huge improvement over older systems, and the benefits are seen immediately. ... Read More