Sram focuses on lightweight construction and reduces the weight of the Guide disc brake by a good 20 grams to 360 grams. Nevertheless, it should impress with plenty of braking power and heat tolerance. It has already been used in disguise in some Enduro World Series and Downhill World Cup races, mostly on the winning bike.
The aim of the developers was to design a reliable brake for racing and enduro use while keeping the weight as low as possible. Carbon brake levers and titanium bolts as well as new, lightweight discs realise this intention.
The brake calliper has undergone the most changes compared to the previous Guide RSC version.
New seals and a new piston should ensure a consistent pressure point for optimum performance.
Heat management
In order to increase heat tolerance, Sram has come up with a few special features. Firstly, the brake pad opening has been widened by two millimetres. This increases natural cooling through the air flow. New sealing rings are used to reset the pistons.
Speaking of pistons: The aluminium piston has a ribbed surface which, in conjunction with the new seals, should ensure reliable piston return. Embedded ceramic elements provide insulation between the brake pad and piston. In order to minimise heat conduction from the brake pad backing plates on the brake calliper body, a small aluminium plate is used as a shield.
Bleeding Edge Technology
To top the ease of maintenance of the RSC, the developers have revised the course of the brake fluid channels. A "bottom-up" bleeding system is designed to make handling easier. Also interesting: An enclosed adapter replaces the classic hose clamps and serves as a connecting piece between the bleed opening and the syringe. It can be closed with a screw cap. The Sram Guide Ultimate will be available from May for around 300 euros.
New brakes, new discs
Together with the new Guide Ultimate, Sram also presented new brake discs. Based on the Centerline series, the new six-hole discs save 10 grams in the 160 mm size and 20 grams in the 180 mm version. They cost between 75 and 81 euros depending on the size.
More information is available at http://www.sram.com
