TRP EVO PRO Brake Review

TRP EVO PRO Brake: A Significant Upgrade for Disc Braking

TRP has once again raised the bar in the world of mountain bike braking with the introduction of their new EVO PRO brake. Building upon the highly-praised DH-R EVO, the EVO PRO promises enhanced performance, improved rider experience, and refined aesthetics. This article delves into what makes the EVO PRO a compelling option for discerning riders, exploring its key features, setup process, on-trail performance, and potential areas for refinement.

Key Features and Innovations

The EVO PRO isn't just a minor tweak; it's a substantial evolution. TRP has focused on rider-centric improvements, incorporating feedback from their World Cup Downhill and Enduro racing partners. Here's a breakdown of the standout features:

• All-new lever design: This is perhaps the most significant change. The lever boasts a streamlined cable path, accommodating both internal and external routing for a cleaner cockpit.
• Pad Activation Dial (PAD): This innovative feature allows riders to precisely adjust the modulation of the brake. You can fine-tune the lever stroke before the pads engage the rotor, personalising the brake feel to your preference.
• Tool-free lever reach adjuster: Ergonomics are paramount, and TRP has included an easy-to-use, tool-free adjuster for lever reach, ensuring a comfortable fit for a wide range of hand sizes.
• TRP Mineral Oil: The brake system utilises TRP's proprietary mineral oil, boasting a high boiling point of 270 degrees Celsius, crucial for maintaining consistent performance under demanding conditions.
• High-flow 4-piston caliper: The caliper design remains focused on delivering robust and reliable stopping power, a hallmark of TRP's high-performance offerings.
• Top-loading pad design: This simplifies pad changes, a welcome convenience for routine maintenance.
• Compatibility: The EVO PRO is designed for seamless integration with various shifting systems, including I-spec II, MMX/TRP Shifter, and I-Spec EV.
• Colour Options: Available in striking gold, silver, and classic black, allowing riders to match their brake to their bike's aesthetic.
• Weight: A respectable 309g for the front and 323g for the rear (per brake).
• Price: Black models retail at $279.99, silver at $289.99, and gold at $299.99 per brake.

The Lever Overhaul: A Game Changer?

Having spent considerable time with previous TRP EVO brakes, the consistency and power were already impressive. However, the EVO PRO's new lever addresses a common point of feedback: the initial lever throw. The addition of the PAD allows for a dramatic reduction in this throw. Previously, the DH-R EVO had a noticeable gap before pad engagement. The EVO PRO, with the PAD adjuster set to its most aggressive setting (fully clockwise), significantly shortens this, bringing the lever closer to parallel with the handlebars when fully engaged. This creates a more intuitive feel and a larger 'sweet spot' for your finger.

The lever action on the PRO feels notably firmer than its predecessor, offering a more immediate and responsive feel. This can be quantified by the grip-to-lever distance at first bite:

The New TRP S05E Rotors

TRP has also introduced their new S05E rotors, which they claim offer a 10% increase in deceleration over their previous RS01E rotors. TRP is known for its robust, albeit slightly heavier, rotors at 2.3mm thick. While this thickness aids in bending resistance and heat dissipation, it does add weight. The S05E rotors are designed to reach optimal operating temperature faster and maintain stability due to improved open and solid area distribution. While directly verifying the 10% claim is difficult without a direct A/B comparison on the same setup, the combination of the EVO PRO brakes and the S05E rotors undoubtedly provides a substantial increase in bite and overall power compared to the older DH-R/RS01E pairing.

Setup: The Pre-Bleed Advantage

One of the perennial strengths of TRP brakes is their ease of setup, and the EVO PRO continues this tradition. Crucially, TRP brakes come pre-bled from the factory. This significantly simplifies the installation process, especially for home mechanics. The front and rear brakes are supplied with identical 1900mm hoses, which can be easily cut to the desired length using the included barb, olive, and compression nut. The bleeding procedure itself remains unchanged from previous models. Following TRP's instructional videos, the process is straightforward. After cutting the hoses, there was minimal fluid loss, and a simple lever purge with the clear bleed tube resulted in a firm, responsive lever ready for the trail.

On The Trail: Modulation, Power, and Consistency

The initial rides with the EVO PROs required a period of adjustment. The lighter lever action, combined with the increased power, meant that unintentional wheel lock-ups were more frequent than with the older DH-R EVOs. It took approximately 2-3 rides to acclimate to the new feel and to modulate the brakes effectively. TRP suggests that switching to their red semi-metallic pads can offer a less aggressive initial bite and easier modulation for those seeking a gentler engagement. This is a promising option for fine-tuning the brake's character.

Power is where the EVO PRO truly shines. Even with the stock blue performance resin pads (the same compound used on previous DH-R EVOs), the new brakes and S05E rotors deliver significantly more stopping force. The initial feel can be described as more 'on-off' compared to the DH-R, but this is often a trade-off for increased power and a lighter lever feel. As you adapt to the increased power, you can brake later and with less effort, which is a significant advantage on demanding descents. The ability to fine-tune the feel with different rotor and pad combinations further enhances the EVO PRO's versatility.

Consistency has always been a strong suit for TRP, and the EVO PRO maintains this reputation. Riders often go entire seasons without needing to bleed TRP brakes, and the EVO PRO appears to follow suit. Even after periods of inactivity, TRP brakes retain their feel. During testing, the EVO PROs provided a consistent bite point on every lever pull. A demanding descent of approximately 1,500 ft in four and a half minutes demonstrated the brakes' unwavering performance, with no noticeable fade from start to finish. Based on past experience and initial performance, the EVO PRO is expected to maintain its reliable stopping power for the long term.

Areas for Improvement

While the EVO PRO represents a significant leap forward, there are minor areas where further refinement could be considered. Although the lever throw has been improved, some competitors, like SRAM's Maven brakes, still offer a shorter lever throw. For riders with larger hands, the lever might not extend quite far enough even with the adjuster at its maximum setting. During testing, the adjuster was set to 12 out of 14 clicks from fully retracted, indicating that while generous, there might be a limit for some users. For those desiring even less lever throw, potential 'bleeding tricks' might be explored in the future. However, these are minor points in an otherwise exceptional package.

The Verdict: A Top-Tier Braking Solution

The TRP EVO PRO builds confidently on the success of the DH-R EVO, delivering noticeable improvements that riders have been seeking. The redesigned lever, with its enhanced ergonomics, lighter feel, PAD adjustment, and increased power, makes the EVO PRO a highly competitive option. When paired with the new S05E rotors, the stopping power is formidable. While a short acclimation period may be necessary to harness the full potential of these brakes, the ability to tune their feel through rotor and pad choices ensures that most riders can achieve their ideal setup. The EVO PRO offers exceptional stopping force, coupled with consistent lever feel and smooth modulation, making them a standout choice for gravity-focused mountain biking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do TRP Brakes come pre-bled?
Yes, TRP brakes, including the EVO PRO, come pre-bled from the factory, simplifying installation.

What is the Pad Activation Dial (PAD)?
The PAD is a feature on the EVO PRO lever that allows riders to adjust the point at which the brake pads engage the rotor, offering customizable lever feel and modulation.

Are the TRP EVO PRO brakes more powerful than the DH-R EVO?
Yes, the EVO PRO, especially when paired with the new S05E rotors, offers increased power and a more immediate bite compared to the DH-R EVO.

Can I adjust the lever reach on the EVO PRO?
Yes, the EVO PRO features a tool-free lever reach adjuster for personalised ergonomics.

What type of brake fluid do TRP EVO PRO brakes use?
TRP EVO PRO brakes use TRP's proprietary mineral oil, which has a high boiling point of 270 degrees Celsius.

What are the recommended pad options for the EVO PRO?
The EVO PRO comes stock with blue performance resin pads. For a less aggressive bite and easier modulation, TRP suggests their red semi-metallic pads.

Where can I find more information?
For more details, visit trpcycling.com.

Score Breakdown:
Setup/Bleed Process: 10/10
Modulation: 8/10
Power: 10/10
Consistency: 10/10
Overall Score: 9.0/10

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