14/10/2015
When it comes to mountain biking, reliable and powerful braking is paramount. The right set of brakes can mean the difference between a controlled descent and a hairy mishap. Formula, an Italian manufacturer renowned for its mountain biking components, offers a range of braking systems, with the Cura 4 standing out as their most potent offering. This four-piston variant is designed to deliver exceptional stopping power, but how does it stack up against the competition? Let's delve into the specifics of the Formula Cura 4.
Introducing the Formula Cura 4
The Formula Cura 4 is the flagship four-piston brake from the Italian brand, positioned as their most powerful model. For those seeking a less aggressive option, Formula also offers the standard Cura with two pistons, tailored for light trails, and the lightweight Cura X, aimed at XC riders. The Cura 4, however, is built for those who demand maximum stopping performance.
Design and Features
Retailing at €422, the Formula Cura 4 is positioned as one of the more affordable options in its class, especially when compared to some of the premium offerings on the market. It's available in black, silver, and gold, allowing riders to match their bike's aesthetic. The lever features a classic two-piece handlebar clamp, secured by two bolts, similar to systems from MAGURA or Hayes. While functional, this design can be a little fiddly; the bolts are small and can be easily dropped if one isn't careful during installation or removal.
Formula offers an innovative solution for lever integration: special clamps are available that allow SRAM or Shimano shifters to be mounted directly onto the brake lever. This can help tidy up your cockpit and improve ergonomics. A significant upgrade in the latest Cura 4 is the redesigned lever. It boasts a slightly shorter and more ergonomic blade, providing a comfortable feel. Crucially, it incorporates tool-free adjustments for both bite point and reach. However, a notable characteristic, shared with the Hope Tech 4 V4, is that the lever blade moves when the bite point is adjusted. This means these two crucial settings are intrinsically linked and must be adjusted in tandem.
Brake Fluid and Bleeding
The Formula Cura 4 utilises a conventional two-syringe system for bleeding, a method familiar to those who have worked with SRAM brake systems. While it might feel slightly awkward compared to some other bleeding methods, Formula has positioned the bleed port conveniently on top of the lever. This means a full disassembly of the brake caliper is not necessary, simplifying the maintenance process. The Cura 4 operates with mineral oil, a user-friendly choice as minor spills are less harmful to skin and paintwork than some other brake fluids. However, it is imperative to keep the mineral oil away from your brake pads, as contamination will severely impact performance.
Brake Pad Options
Formula provides two distinct brake pad compounds for the Cura 4. The brakes come standard with a metallic pad compound, offering a good balance of power and durability. For those seeking a longer service life and potentially quieter operation, Formula also offers an organic pad option. The choice of pad can significantly influence the braking feel and performance, and it's worth considering an upgrade if the stock pads don't quite meet your expectations.
Performance in Lab and Trail Tests
In rigorous lab testing, the Formula Cura 4 secured fifth place out of the tested brakes, positioning it just behind the MAGURA MT7 and slightly ahead of the TRP DH-R EVO. This suggests a solid, albeit not class-leading, performance in controlled laboratory conditions. However, our tests using Sinter reference pads revealed a significant improvement, with over a 10% increase in braking torque. This indicates that upgrading the brake pads early on could be a worthwhile investment to unlock the Cura 4's full potential.
Trail Performance and Feel
When installing the Cura 4, you'll immediately notice that the levers sit quite far from the handlebars. The adjustability inwards is somewhat limited, meaning riders who prefer their levers positioned very close to the bars might find the ergonomics less than ideal. Furthermore, even with the bite point adjuster fully engaged, there's very little deadband in the lever stroke. This results in a 'snappy' brake feel on the trail, characterised by a very distinct on-off switch sensation.
This direct engagement means the power modulation range is relatively narrow, similar to the feel experienced with some Shimano and Hayes brakes. Despite this, the Cura 4 remains easy to modulate. This is corroborated by BrakeAce test results, which show short, efficient braking times and ample braking power, particularly at the front. The data suggests good modulation, and crucially, the front brake inspires a high degree of confidence, allowing riders to push their limits.
While the Cura 4 may not match the sheer brute force of the absolute most powerful brakes on test, such as the SRAM MAVEN or Trickstuff MAXIMA, it still delivers excellent deceleration. The key lies in its predictable power delivery and the confidence it instills in the rider.
Formula Cura 4: What Makes It Good?
Formula's ambition with the Cura 4 was to create a brake that excelled in power and performance, utilising high-quality materials while remaining accessible. The four 18mm diameter pistons are the heart of its immense power, providing riders with stopping capabilities that were previously unimaginable. The expanded friction surface area of the pads, coupled with increased thickness, contributes to perfect modulation. This allows for precise control over braking power, ensuring you can feather the brakes exactly as needed.
The optimized roll-back mechanism contributes to the exceptional lever feel that Formula brakes are known for. The Cura 4 inherits the quality of materials and construction from its smaller sibling, the Cura. It's a fully forged and anodised brake, a manufacturing process that guarantees structural integrity, long-term reliability, and a relatively low weight. These attributes combine to make the Cura 4 a compelling package.
Formula Cura 4: Pros and Cons
To summarise the Formula Cura 4's performance and features, here's a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Snappy brake feel | Lever position can't be adjusted close to handlebars |
| Easy lever adjustment (tool-free) | Clamp mechanism can be a little finicky |
| Good modulation and confidence-inspiring power | Narrow power modulation range |
| Affordable price point | Potential benefit from pad upgrade |
| Mineral oil, user-friendly | Lever and bite point adjustment are linked |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BB 640 power brake pads suitable for Formula Cura 4?
Yes, the BB 640 Power brake pads, which are an organic compound, are suitable for the Formula Cura 4. Organic pads offer good thermal insulation, which helps protect the caliper seals from overheating. This makes them a good option for riders seeking longevity and heat resistance.
Is the Formula Cura 4 a good brake overall?
The Formula Cura 4 is a very good brake, especially considering its price point. It offers strong stopping power, good modulation, and user-friendly features like tool-free lever adjustments. While it might not be the absolute most powerful brake on the market, it provides a confidence-inspiring performance that is suitable for a wide range of aggressive riding styles. An upgrade to aftermarket pads can further enhance its performance.
What are the main advantages of the Formula Cura 4?
The main advantages include its powerful four-piston design, tool-free lever reach and bite point adjustments, the use of mineral oil for easier maintenance, and its competitive pricing. The snappy brake feel and good modulation also contribute to its appeal.
Are there any significant drawbacks to the Formula Cura 4?
The primary drawbacks are the limited inward adjustability of the levers, meaning they might not suit riders who prefer very close lever positioning, and the somewhat finicky clamp design. Additionally, the linked lever and bite point adjustments, while convenient, mean these cannot be adjusted independently.
Conclusion
The Formula Cura 4 represents a significant step forward for Formula's braking systems. It successfully combines ample stopping power with user-friendly adjustments and a robust build quality. While some minor ergonomic and design quirks exist, they are largely overshadowed by the brake's overall performance and value. For riders looking for a powerful, reliable, and well-priced four-piston brake that can handle demanding trails, the Formula Cura 4 is an excellent choice, especially with the potential for further performance gains through a simple pad upgrade.
For more information, visit rideformula.com.
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