The TLM has been designed for cross-country and light trail use and scores straight away by using SRAM’s MatchMaker clamp (also found on the cheaper TL), which syncs with its shifters and RockShox Reverb remote levers.
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The single-piece ‘Monoblock’ twin-piston caliper saves the 227g TLM 14g over the TL’s two-piece bolted version. It also adds SRAM’s latest end-of-the-line fluid port placement for fast, easy bleeding.
The couple of sets we’ve ridden so far have been totally reliable, and consistent modulation from the ‘Heat Shield’-protected caliper compares well with other brands’ XC brakes too.
Unless you’re desperate to save 30g, comparison with SRAM’s own Guide brakes isn’t as favourable. The ‘DirectLink’ connection between lever blade and master cylinder means a longer throw before the pad contacts the rotor than with the cam-assisted ‘SwingLink’ of the Guide RS and it’s even more obvious compared to the adjustable-contact-point Guide RSC.
The feel isn’t as firm or richly modulated either, and power is a claimed 12 percent lower so you may have to use a larger, heavier rotor. Pad wear also seems faster than with the longer Guide pads. You’ll need to factor rotors (SRAM’s Centerline discs cost around £35 / US$44) into the price too.
