Magura MT8 Raceline Disc Brake and Lever [Rider Review]

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Magura makes some of the coolest looking brakes on the market, plain and simple. Not only that, but they pack serious stopping power. Just ask our customer Stephen. He recently picked up a new set of Magura MT8 Raceline brakes. Check out what he had to say about them!

Let me stop you right there… that’s the type of performance that has made Magura famous since entering the mountain bike industry in ’94.

Overview

The MT8 Raceline brake set is a 4-piston hydraulic disc brake set with F/ R compatible composite levers ((pronounced leevers)). Raceline in this case refers to the yellow-colored calipers/levers that have become iconic for Magura over the years. Raceline yellow for Magura used to be exclusive to team riders like Sam Pilgrim and Danny MacAskill. But for a limited time (or limited edition run) you can look like the pros!

Performance

The MT8’s composite levers are optimized for 1 finger breaking which in conjunction with the 4-piston caliper, allows for an amazing modulation but with a well-defined “bite” and serious stopping power when needed. Here in Florida, we have some very technical singletrack and these brakes are exactly what I needed for my aggressive, fast pace style of riding.

Additionally, I ride in an area infested with alligators and snakes so knowing I can stop on a dime is nice.

I haven’t owned the MT8 brakes long enough myself to attest to long term performance, but I can attest to the quality of Magura’s customer support team and instructional videos they have to help solve any issues!

Customizable

Want to match your bike or just looking to add even more steeze? The Magura MT series of brakes are probably the most customizable brake sets on the market. Magura offers a multitude of blade options, different color caliper rings, and fully customizable lever plates!

Cons

Honestly, there isn’t much to complain about with these brakes without being supercritical. That being said, that's my job here so I’m gonna do it. My main gripe or frustration with the MT8’s is the composite levers. To me, the composite lever body feels somewhat cheap, but that may be attributed to the fact that they’re incredibly light. My previous brakes (SRAM Guide R) were much heavier/beefier so comparatively the MT8 feels like plastic. I don’t plan on crashing… but I’m curious how well the levers will hold up from basic abuse and bails.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an aggressive trail rider like myself, or if you’re looking for a set of Enduro / DH brakes I would highly recommend the Magura MT8 brake set! Not only do they have a bunch of awesome features and look sharp, but they pack the power to handle the most extreme riding. I’m not sure how “limited” the Raceline edition MT8 is, but if you snooze you lose! If you do miss out, the good news is that you could customize a set of MT8 and make them completely your own! Hope this helps!