Test: Ever since I fell in love with downhill sports, an unbelievable number of products have constantly changed and sometimes improved to a greater or lesser extent. The SRAM Code, on the other hand, has been on the market for what feels like an eternity, has not changed for a long time and is very popular. When I found out that the code had now been fundamentally revised, my curiosity was quickly aroused and the new brake should be tested.
SRAM Guide as the basis of the new code
The design and technology of the new code is based on the already proven development of the guide. A major difference to the Guide is a larger Piggy Back, which means that there is 30% more oil in the brake, which makes the brake less sensitive to heat build-up. Furthermore, the brake caliper has 2 mm larger piston diameters. These two adjustments together should increase braking power by 15% compared to the Guide. The Code should therefore serve as a reliable companion, from downhill to e-bikes, and also be able to stand up to heavier riders.
SRAM Code R and RSC
The Code is available in two model variants that differ in a few details. The "R" stands for Reach Adjust, while "S" describes the Swing Link and "C" describes the Contact Adjust. So you have to do without the pressure point adjustment and the swing link with the Code R.
SRAM Code – Technical Details
The Code offers many highlights that some are already familiar with from the Guide models. These include Bleeding Edge technology, which makes it easier to bleed brakes filled with DOT 5.1. There is no vent screw and instead the liquid syringe is connected directly to the vent opening using an adapter. This prevents the ingress of air and prevents loss of liquid. As with the Guide, the Heat Shield can be found in the Code brakes. A stainless steel sheet is designed to prevent the transfer of heat from the brake pads to the brake caliper.
The 15mm and 16mm pistons are made of aluminum on the Code R and phenolic on the RSC. If you opt for the cheaper Code R, you have to do without the swing link already mentioned, which reduces the free travel of the brake lever without affecting the controllability. With all the innovations, the rubbers have remained identical, which pleases those of you who still hoard a supply of rubbers. The brakes are delivered with sintered pads that guarantee durability and functionality in all weather conditions. The Matchmaker is now an integral part of SRAM brakes. With a total weight of 443g, the brake is certainly not a case for lightweight builders.
SRAM Code - endurance test
Having previously relied on the Guide Ultimate, this season I tested both the Code R and the RSC top model. Both models are noticeably more powerful than the Guide. I see the promised performance increase of 15% as a realistic value. Even on steep and long descents I could not provoke any fading of the code. I particularly like the controllability of the brakes and the minimal effort required to generate maximum braking power. This prevents fatigue in the arms, especially on long descents.
Bleeding the brakes also works perfectly. However, you should definitely have the necessary adapter with you, since the bleeding edge technology is still a bit newer and one or the other backyard mechanic does not yet have a suitable adapter ready. The biggest difference between Code R and RSC is the pressure point adjustment. The pressure point adjustment can score particularly well when the brake pads have been braked down relatively further. The pressure point, which has moved closer to the lever due to wear, can be quickly moved back to the desired point by turning the adjustment wheel.
Leave a Comment