Shimano SLX BL-M7100/BR-M7120 [Rider Review]

Our "Rider Review" article series features the honest reviews from verified purchasers of Worldwide Cyclery. They contain the photos, thoughts, feedback & overall review you are looking for. 

Hydraulic brakes have been in the Mountain Bike industry for years. They offer power like no other. One of the gold standards is Shimano's brakes. Shimano started offering a SLX model in a 4 piston brake at a good price point. Our friend, Nate, has been trying them out. See what they think! 

Overview

I recently re-joined the mountain bike world after an almost 15-year hiatus. My last mountain bike was fitted with old school rim brakes so I was pumped to get a new bike with hydraulic 4-piston disc brakes! It was my new bike day, and I had 4-piston brakes, ready to shred…right? Not so much, I found that the original brakes, “the brakes that shall not be named” were soft despite multiple brake bleeds, locked up frequently, and offered a minimal range for controlled stopping.

I absolutely love the SLX drivetrain on my bike so I decided to get the Shimano SLX 4 piston brakes. I am a scientist by training so this decision was made after a significant amount of time spent research all the brands and options and determining that the budget to quality ratio of the Shimano SLX 4-piston brakes is hard to beat.

Here are some of the highlights: Shimano BR-M7120’s brake lever design is stiffer providing added support for aggressive riding. The Servo Wave Action technology means quicker brake engagement with shorter free stroke (big plus in my opinion). Includes metal pads which provider greater breaking power (make sure to bed them in and be aware that they will get hot with aggressive use). Combined weight of the brakes is roughly 917g which is only about 10 g more than the next level up XT brakes.

First impression was the quality of all the components compared to “the brakes that shall not be named,” these are sturdy brakes at an excellent price point. I installed the brakes myself (first attempt at this) and it was straightforward. I did bleed them out of thoroughness, but not sure that was actually needed as they come pre-bled. The brake pads themselves are also very easy to remove and replace.

First ride out was amazing. The brakes felt very responsive, I was able to modulate breaking power as needed. In regards to power, I am a moderately aggressive rider and these had plenty of punch for the type of riding I do (trail riding in western North Carolina). No hand fatigue from braking, and only locked up when I wanted them too. Overall one heck of a ride with these installed.

I have put roughly 150 Km on these to date and they continue to perform at a very high level.

Love these brakes so much that I put them on my e-bike which ways close to 20 Kg. I was a little worried about having enough power, but this has not been an issue at all. These brakes continue to impress and will likely be my go to product for a very long time.

Final Thoughts

Great brakes at a great price point. If you are looking for an easy upgrade with a significant impact on overall riding I strongly suggest you consider the Shimano SLX 4-piston brakes! These are a great option, even for the most serious riders.