Our tester Hans is a tough guy. Fighting weight: 93 kilos. Profession: Privateer. Mission: Biking until the doctor comes, usually close to the fall line. If we want to know whether frames will break, helmets will burst or brakes will burn up - then Hans is our man. There have even been manufacturers who have refused to test materials when his name comes up.
Since then, Hans has been travelling "undercover". He quickly exposed the standard Formula "T1" fitted to his endurance test bike. Despite the 203 mm disc, the brake was constantly overheating - "unsuitable for freeriding!" was his conclusion. So now the powerful Formula "RO Oval". Over 4,850 kilometres and 117,000 metres in altitude - the speedometer proves it - the "RO Oval" didn't make a fuss, according to Hans. Wow, we rarely hear that from his mouth. He particularly liked the fact that he didn't even have to bleed the brakes during the long period of use. The "RO Oval" bites hard, not quite as brute as the Shimano "Saint" or the Avid "Code" "but completely sufficient", says Hans. In short: test passed. The only drawback: squeaking on long descents. "But what brakes don't squeak!" says Hans.
CONCLUSION: A powerful brake with plenty of power. Also suitable for freeriders over 90 kilos. The lever ergonomics are a matter of taste.
PLUS Durability, low maintenance, braking power
Test time: 13 months
Weight405 grams (front brake with 203-millimetre disc)
Price322 Euro (per brake with disc)
Info: www.formula-italy.com
Dimitri Lehner
Editor
