Quad’s new Rapide brake is an update of the Sting series, adding new features deigned for more gravity-focused riders. At under 500g it’s not too heavy for trail use.
The hooked lever gets a gold anodised ‘tool-free’ reach adjust knob and bite point/power adjustment. The closed, bolted calliper gets an adjustable hose angle for a neat bike fit but pad clearance is very tight. This makes patient and accurate setup crucial for quiet, drag-free running.
Long and thorough bedding-in is required to get the brake to full potential too, but if you take the time to prep it there’s decent power to be had. Modulation is marred by a very squishy lever feel, making the simpler, £59.99 Quad Nano a much better choice.
This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
