DOT Brakes
DOT (Department of Transportation) brake fluid is a glycol-based hydraulic medium that is water-miscible and widely used in the automotive sector. SRAM also used DOT brake fluid for many years in all its hydraulic bicycle brakes – including models like the Level, Code, Guide, and G2. However, since 2024, SRAM has been shifting to mineral oil for all its new MTB brake systems.
It is crucial never to mix different hydraulic fluids, and DOT brake systems cannot be converted to use mineral oil – nor vice versa.
Mineral Oil Brakes
Mineral oil is easier to handle as a hydraulic medium, as it is non-corrosive and less toxic than DOT brake fluid. It also prolongs the life of seals in brake systems, effectively doubling maintenance intervals – which is why mineral oil has become the fluid of choice for most bicycle brakes. SRAM now uses mineral oil in its MTB brake models such as the Maven, DB4, DB6, DB8, and the SRAM Motive.
To prevent confusion, SRAM has designed specific bleed ports for its mineral oil brake systems.
SRAM Motive
DOT is dead! With the switch to mineral oil as hydraulic fluid for all MTB brakes, SRAM is turning a new chapter in its company history – a move away from DOT brake fluid at the US brand seemed unthinkable just a short while ago. The SRAM Motive aims to be the lightest heavy-duty four-piston brake, succeeding the Code, and is intended for effectively slowing down everything from cross-country to trail bikes.
SRAM Maven
With the SRAM Maven, you get the most out of the trail: set the braking point where you want, not where you have to. Compared to the legendary Code, SRAM has increased braking power by another 50% - for less fatigue and even more defined braking points. The Swinglink in the brake lever ensures a progressive actuation of the slave piston, providing absolute control even when precise and sensitive braking maneuvers are required. The new SRAM Maven: your ticket to the hot seat!
