Renowned Italian braking powerhouse Brembo has officially partnered with Specialized Bicycles, marking a significant leap into the world of elite mountain biking. This collaboration will see Brembo’s cutting-edge brake technology featured on the bikes of Specialized Gravity’s top-tier downhill racing team, including champions Loïc Bruni, Jordan Williams, and Finn Iles.
Prototype Brembo Brakes Make Their Debut in World Cup Racing
In a move that aligns with Brembo’s strategy of showcasing technology at the pinnacle of motorsport, the newly developed braking system is currently undergoing rigorous real-world testing throughout the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup season. “Prove it at the highest level first, then let the tech trickle down to the masses,” the company seems to echo with this launch.
Far from being rebranded existing components, these are purpose-built, prototype-grade brakes tailored for high-performance downhill racing. The front brake lever features a long, flat blade and a micro-adjuster near the pivot, likely allowing for fine reach tuning. Its lever body is robust and vertically stacked, reminiscent of the compact hydraulic systems from brands like SRAM. A substantial fluid reservoir is integrated for enhanced consistency under heavy loads.
Designed for Performance: From MotoGP to Mountain Biking
The caliper unit spotted on the race bikes is a four-piston configuration—a standard for elite DH competition. Though Brembo has yet to reveal detailed specifications, the system’s architecture indicates a strong emphasis on heat management, consistent modulation, and long-term durability—attributes honed through decades of competition in MotoGP and Formula 1.
Commercial Availability? Not Yet, But History Suggests It’s Coming
Currently, these Brembo bicycle brakes are being used strictly in racing environments. Still, if history is any guide, consumer versions may not be far behind. As seen with previous motorsport innovations, technologies first introduced on the racetrack often make their way to the broader market. While you won’t find these ultra-performance brakes on the shelves today, the sight of Brembo’s iconic red logo on future consumer mountain bikes seems increasingly likely.
With this bold move, Brembo not only reinforces its commitment to high-performance braking but also signals a broader push into the cycling sector, expanding its influence from two wheels to two pedals.
