Light but still with plenty of power and reliability, the Mag SL is an impressive – if expensive – all-rounder.
By switching to magnesium for the master cylinder and adding a carbon fibre lever, Magura save 43g over the standard Marta, and the skeletal 129g 180mm SL rotor makes this version more competitive.
A closed clamp makes fitting to carbon bars a gentle job, though, and the hoses are ridiculously long. Carefully bedding in the pads is essential to get a good lifespan out of them, but otherwise we’ve had trouble-free years with our Magura anchors, and there’s a five-year leak guarantee too.
The very sharp, firm lever feel that’s characteristic of most Magura brakes won’t suit those who like more of a squeezy feel. Modulation and power are consistent and adequate for most situations though. There’s also an alloy centred Ventidisc rotor option for mountain use, but at 213g it adds a lot of weight to the system.
