After what seems like a geologic epoch, SRAM has an all-new mountain bike brake lineup. The new lineup is significant because it is more streamlined and represents a new direction for the brand.

What are the most exciting developments and features of modern trail bikes? Which ones are establishing themselves, what’s useful, and what could we actually do without?

Just six short weeks ago, we reported on the launch of SRAM’s long-awaited Mechanical Transmission mountain bike drivetrains, Eagle 90 and Eagle 70. For many, especially those who have lamented the ...