There are two reasons why Hope enjoys cult status among bikers. FirstlyDespite globalisation, the English manage to keep the development, production and marketing of their parts at the company headquarters in Lancashire. And SecondlyHope repeatedly demonstrates a pioneering spirit outside the mainstream. For example, there was once a Hope disc brake with six brake pistons per caliper. Recently, the British company developed a track bike with a futuristic design that costs an insane 30000 euros.
In contrast, the latest evolutionary stage of the X2 brake seems almost like a bargain at 740 euros for a set including discs. The aim of the new development: with a newly designed master piston and filigree carbon levers, the Brits want to catch up with the lightest brakes in the world in terms of weight. However, at 205 grams for the front brake, including bolts but without brake discs, the Hope XCR Pro X2 is still over 40 grams heavier than the queen of lightweight construction: the Trickstuff Piccola HD weighs just over 160 grams with a comparable cable length.
The practical test on the trails is almost typical of Hope. Like all brakes from the English brand, the XCR Pro X2 has a hard-hitting pressure point that allows the brake to be controlled well. However, we would have hoped for a little more braking power. Even a rider weighing only 70kg has to pull hard on the lever to finally come to a stop. In addition, the carbon brake levers have minimal play in the milled master piston, so that they vibrate slightly when riding over gravel paths and therefore make a little annoying noise over time.
Weight for the complete brake system with 160 mm discs: 629 grams
Price: 740 Euro
Info: www.hopetech.com
