In the test: SRAM G2 Disc Brake

With the G2, SRAM brought a successor to the well-known Guide series to the market a few years ago. At the start the question was: is the new G2 set really better? In the meantime, the disc brake has been proven a thousand times and it’s clear: yes, already…

SRAM wanted to set new standards in the braking sector with some changes and improvements. We fitted the brake in the RSC version to our test bike and put it through its paces (Our test is a bit older; we’ve updated it for you).

SRAM G2 disc brake – facts you should know:

With the G2 disc brake, SRAM wanted to land another real hit. The Americans managed that too, but the series wasn’t completely new.

SRAM G2 – the predecessors

The hydraulic GS brake is the worthy successor to the Guide series, but it’s based on the design of the Code series. Even the unboxing is pretty pleasing… at first glance we have a solid, reliable brake in our hands. The distinctive Look with its angular design looks great in any case. Just like the “Guide” disc brake, the G2 slots in between the “Level” system for relaxed trail use and the downhill brake “Code”. According to SRAM’s product specifications, the G2 delivers almost 7% more braking power than its predecessors and thus closes the gap to Code . We’ll see whether our test confirms that!

However, the focus in development wasn’t only on increasing braking power, but also on balanced overall performance. The combination of braking power, lever feel, modulation and heat resistance should convince in every respect.

Looks good for sure… the SRAM G2 in use.

SRAM G2… what’s new?

You can buy the G2 in different variants; here is the one we tested, the RSC version, compared to the Carbon Premium model:

Technical specifications

SRAM G2 model variants Ultimate and RSC at a glance

Which technologies are used in the SRAM G2?

The G2 brake calliper in close-up.

Many riders complained about increasingly tired forearms with the Guide , because a lot of hand force was needed to brake the mountain bike properly. With the new G2, that shouldn’t be the case anymore.

• To achieve this goal, SRAM builds further on the proven Swinglink system and changed the lever pivot point only slightly to create better power transfer .
• Visually, the lever and the brake calliper have become a bit more angular; we really like the new design.
• The MatchMaker is also used on the G2 . With this changeable mounting clamp, you still have the option to tidy up your cockpit a bit and mount the brake together with the shifter or dropper lever on the handlebar.
• In the top variant SRAM G2 Ultimate , the sensor comes with a carbon lever and sealed ball bearings; the RSC version is actuated with an aluminium lever and uses conventional bushings.
• For the design of the brake calliper, the opening for the brake pads was made smaller, but the connecting screws of the two halves were made larger. This gives the calliper significantly more stiffness, which should benefit braking performance.
• Another new feature is the newly developed brake pad called “Power”. As the name suggests, the organic brake pad is supposed to bite hard. However, the previous pads are still available and are also compatible with the G2.
• In addition, the material of the brake lines has been revised. With more flexible hoses, there should be fewer problems during installation.

The SRAM G2 MTB brake in the test

After installation, the brake is set up; you’ll find how-tos in plenty of places, so we’ll focus here on our test!

Individual brake set-up

Our test G2 already scores early points on the first ride. Thanks to the versatile adjustment options for lever reach and contact point , we were able to set the brake up individually with just a few hand movements. Even with the slight design changes, the lever feels pleasantly familiar in the hand.

The G2 on the test bike in use.

The SRAM G2 on the roll

Once we got to the Wald, the fine modulation was noticeable right from the first metres. Even during easy rolling-in, there was a clear difference to the Guide , because the bite point feels much more precise and crisp.

In a full-brake test, the first impression is confirmed. The new Power pad and the stiffer-designed calliper do the job. In terms of braking power, the G2 outdoes the previous Guide by a comfortable margin, but whether it really comes close to the Code is questionable (the combined braking power of the SRAM flagship DH brake is still the benchmark when it comes to braking power). But even if the new brake doesn’t have the brutal power of the Code , the Power pads deliver plenty of power and impress us for the long term.

Downhill with SRAM’s G2

Even on longer descents, the Sram G2 does a stable job. No signs of fatigue or fading. Unfortunately, during the test phase we didn’t get the chance to take the disc brake out in the Alps and push it to the limit on 20-minute descents. But on home trails, Enduro laps and DH tracks it delivers solid performance. Our SRAM G2 RSC keeps its promises even after longer use.

Also looks smart at the cockpit… G2 brake lever from SRAM

The SRAM G2 brake in the test – our verdict

With the G2, Sram has brought a truly worthy successor to the Guide to the market. The redesign and the new brake pads have given it a real upgrade in terms of modulation and braking power. We think the G2 is a top-class 4-piston Enduro brake . The braking power is very close to that of the Code , and in the model comparison he even saves a few grams.

Whether the extra euros for the carbon Ultimate version are worth it is a decision we can’t make for you. Weight obsessives will probably not get around the carbon lever, but we were more than satisfied with the performance of the RSC version and can recommend the cheaper version with a clear conscience.

The braking upgrade for your MTB

MTB disc brakes | SRAM | Bleed kits

Bike parts in the test

Marzocchi Bomber Z1 suspension fork | Test: Marzocchi CR steel spring | Test SQLab saddle

 | OMG Octane One Fully in the test