Hope Tech 4 E4 brakes

Background

Hope Tech4 E4 brake

I have previously used Hope brakes many years ago, but struggled with the ease of the lever action (i.e., it being slightly too stiff). I recently had the opportunity the chuck the latest 4 pot brakes from Hope, the Tech4 E4 on my Cotic RocketMax enduro bike.

The Pro’s

WOW, was my first impression of the brake. The lever action was nice, easy to actuate, and the modulation and power balance was just right. Did I mention the power… the power! I would put the brake somewhere in between a Shimano Saint and Sram Code as far as modulation goes. The brakes come with lots of adjustment to allow you to find the right amount of lever throw and the precise bite point you like.

The Con’s

The brakes are pricey, however you certainly feel like you have a premium product for the price. In addition, I had to run a stand alone Shimano gear shifter mount to be able to reach the gear paddles easily. The shapeshifter mount with the brake wasn’t quite enough, although does have two mounting holes. Lastly, the bleed process is quite complex with lots of steps, however, the brakes seem well sealed and once you know the steps, isn’t difficult to execute. We haven’t been able to conduct a long term review (1+ years) to see how often bleeding the brakes is required. So far, so good though (5+ months).

Conclusion

These are a fantastic brake, worthy of a premium price. This price may put some buyers off, especially as there are other brakes available with similar capabilities at a cheaper price point, however, as an overall package, these are well placed. I loved the feel, power, and modulation balance, and that I could get the bite point and lever throw to my liking. If your local trails warrant the power, I would feel comfortable to recommend these and more than happy to make these my new brake of choice as the trails that I ride are steep and tech and warrant the power.

Con’s

Pro’s

  • Pricey

  • Quite a complicated bleed process

  • Linked with Shimano gears, required a stand alone gear shifter mount

  • Easy lever action

  • Loads of power

  • Great modulation - power balance

  • Lots of adjustment

  • Plenty of colours for customisation

Reviewer

Dr Gareth Jones

Gareth is the director of ALine mountain bike coaching and an experienced rider (comfortable on double black diamond and orange freeride grade trails). Gareth rides all types of bikes, from road, to enduro, DH and jump bikes. Gareth has raced at a UK national level in both DH and enduro. Living in Sheffield, Gareth regularly rides in the Peak District, Wharncliffe and Grenoside Woods (technical double black diamond trails to flowy red trails) and local skatepark, Onboard (for those jump bike reviews).