Gorilla Brakes Tests New Lewis LH4 Disc Brakes: A Deep Dive
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The Lewis LH4 Axial Cylinder 4 Pistons Hydraulic Disc Brakes recently arrived at Gorilla Brakes HQ for testing on our Enduro race bike. Initially skeptical, we were curious about their performance based on images, YouTube videos, and social media posts. Our expectation was to encounter a typical low-cost Chinese brake system, similar to brakes on Amazon , which are adequate but not comparable to high-end brands like Hope Brakes or top-tier Shimano products. However, upon unboxing, we were pleasantly surprised by the CNC machining and overall quality, which seemed on par with more expensive brands like Trickstuff - brakes that are notoriously hard to obtain in the UK.
As of now, our assessment is limited to the brakes' appearance and build quality since we haven't tested them in real-world conditions. Priced at £335 in the UK, they fall into the same range as the well-established Hope brakes, which was slightly disappointing. Nevertheless, the Lewis LH4 Brakes appear to be of serious quality, and it will be interesting to see how they perform under UK conditions. Their success also hinges on the availability of parts. If they prove reliable and parts are easily accessible, these brakes could become a strong alternative to the more established brands.
SPECIFICATIONS BELOW
Downhill and Enduro
These brakes are designed with a 4-piston caliper, tailored specifically for the rigors of Downhill and Enduro riding. This design promises the strongest braking power, ensuring safety and reliability even in the most demanding conditions.
Patented Dual Adjustment System
The Lewis LH4 features a patented 2-in-1 dual adjustment mechanism for both lever reach and bite point. This innovation allows for personalized settings, providing riders with a brake feel that suits their individual preferences and enhances performance on the trails.
Lightweight Yet Durable
The entire Front+Rear Brakes system weighs in at a mere 597g (including the Oil Hose), and an impressive 380g without the Oil Hose. This lightweight design does not compromise on strength, offering robust performance.
Advanced Material and Design
- 14mm+17mm 4 Stainless Steel Pistons with Metallic Pads: These components ensure balanced pressure distribution and even wear, contributing to the linear feel of the brakes.
- Upgraded Hinged Clamp: This feature secures a no-fray bike handlebar interface, enhancing the overall stability.
- Easy Bleeding Technology and Mineral Oil: These aspects guarantee a hassle-free maintenance experience.
- High-Precision CNC Machining: This technology is used to craft the brakes, ensuring exact and reliable performance.
- Powerful, Predictable Braking: The brakes provide a strong yet manageable stopping force, crucial for challenging terrains.
- Ultra Light Lever Action: This feature, combined with bearing pivots, offers superior modulation and a smooth braking experience.
- Self-Developed Patented Technology: Lewis' unique dual adjustment technology sets these brakes apart in the market.
Superior Materials for Uncompromised Performance
- CNC 7075 T6 Aluminum Caliper: The use of 7075 aluminum alloy in the four-piston caliper enhances rigidity and maintains stable, predictable power.
- Increased Lever Blade Length: The 6mm increase in lever blade length allows for a more aggressive leverage ratio without sacrificing reach.
- Four Precision Bearings: These bearings form the pivot point of the lever blade, ensuring a stable and smooth action.
Revolutionary Hose Design
The Lewis LH4 employs a 5-layer metal hose, incorporating features like:
- PVDF and Teflon, Kevlar Fiber Braided Layer: Provides high-pressure resistance, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature tolerance.
- Spiral Filament Winding and Wire Braided Layer: Enhances performance under heavy braking usage.
- Tensile and Corrosion-Resistant Casing: Ensures the hose remains robust and efficient even in intense riding conditions.
In summary, the Lewis LH4 Axial Cylinder 4 Pistons Hydraulic Disc Brake is a game-changer, setting new standards in cycling brake technology. Stay tuned for our comprehensive test report once these brakes hit our testing grounds! 🚴♂️💨