10 Things I Hate About TRP Brakes & Shifters
Are TRP brakes actually just overpriced Tektro components? After 3 months of testing and a painful warranty process, here's a raw look at the TRP DH-R EVO Pro lineup.
The TRP Reality Check
Developed with input from downhill legend Aaron Gwin, TRP has surged in popularity. But does the performance match the $700+ price tag? Here are the key takeaways from the review.
1. Hardware Frustrations
TRP uses Torx hardware for lever and caliper screws. While common in some toolkits, most MTB riders carry standard Allen wrenches on the trail. If you need a quick adjustment mid-ride, you might be out of luck.
2. The Bleed Process (A Messy Affair)
Unlike Shimano Saint or SRAM Maven brakes, the TRP bleed process is notoriously messy. Without a dedicated top-cup system, oil leakage is common when removing the bleed port, leading to potential contamination of pads and rotors.
3. Lack of Lever Flexibility
TRP levers are not flippable. This means you cannot swap a front lever to the rear in an emergency. Competitive brakes like the SRAM Maven allow for this interchangeability, adding peace of mind for racers.
4. Quality Control & Warranty
The review highlights significant QC issues, including piston contamination right out of the box. Even worse, the warranty process can take up to 3 months, leaving you without brakes for a major part of the season.
5. Color Inconsistency
If you're building a color-matched bike, be warned. TRP switched from Gold to Bronze between versions, making it difficult to match old and new components on the same build.
TRP vs. The Competition
At a 235lb rider weight, stopping power is non-negotiable. While the TRP levers feel great and have nice reach/bite adjustments, they often fail to deliver the consistency of a Shimano Saint or the raw power of the new SRAM Maven.
The Verdict: If you are a high-level racer who needs absolute consistency and fast warranty turnaround, you might want to look at the Mavens. If you love the feel of Aaron Gwin's setup and have a good mechanic on hand, TRP might still be for you.