The Level Series hydraulic disc brake systems are now SRAM's SRAM XC/Trail hydraulic disc brake. The Level takes it cues, and much of it's technology from the Guide design, and is the natural replacement for, and improvement to, the holdover brake technology from SRAM's purchase of Avid. This complete rear brake system comes pre-bled, and the lever is ambidextrous for you moto aficionados. SRAM doesn't develop and engineer technology for catchy names or to justify their existence, but to improve the experience of the cyclist by redefining high performance. There is much to discuss about the Level TLM, but the quick differences from the top end Level Ultimate come down to: bushing instead of bearing for lever pivot, aluminum blade instead of carbon blade, stainless steel hardware instead of titanium, and steel-backed organic pads instead of alloy backed. These differences do mildly affect top performance, but only add 38 grams. If you are a tech head, settle in. If you are confident looking for SRAM's barely second tier brake for XC/Trail use, simply select from the drop down menu, then go back and do the same with the front brake.

At 273 grams for the rear pre-bled 1800mm unit with caliper, hose, and lever, the Level TLM is a highly competitive system by weight at the price point. The improvements will make you forget the grams. The two piston caliper is housed in a forged Monoblock construction for post mount interfaces and this rear design was built for 140mm rotors; adaptable to 160, 180 or 200mm use. The two 21mm pistons are more than adequate for XC/Trail use. SRAM uses a Heat Shield stainless steel heat shield system to break the thermal connection between the pad and caliper body, reducing caliper fluid temperature by about 20°C even in the most extreme testing conditions. Heat is further managed by the use of DOT 5.1 fluid, which has a boiling point nearly 3 times higher than 4.0. Even in the most extreme braking conditions and high air temperatures it is nearly impossible to reach the boiling point. That means your brakes will never fade, supplying even, tactile pressure no matter how steep the descent.

The Level TLM lever assembly and hydraulic system has been designed for ease of use and serviceabilty- often a challenge with SRAM's brakes. The DirectLink lever itself is a smooth-shaped aluminum unit with a great feel. The structure ensures stiffness, and it is light weight. The shape is fairly straight, with a leverage hook at the end that means 1 or 2 finger braking is your choice. It pivots on a smooth bushing system which feels free and consistent under pressure and on return. There is a manual reach adjust accessed from within the lever crotch, and you need a 2mm hex key to get the job done. The lever body is made from aluminum, and houses the Expandable Bladder fluid system, The bladder expands to manage potential air issues and keeping the fluid at constant pressure during use. The bladder is accessed through the top cover, and the service process is fairly straightforward in conjunction with the dedicated caliper-based Bleeding Edge Tool. The execution of the lever/ fluid service is a huge improvement over older systems, and the benefits are seen immediately.

The new caliper porting and fluid path make it easier to push fluid through the caliper for quick and easy bleeding with the dedicated bleed adapter. The S4 fitting plugs into the bleed port and seals the system to minimize air contamination and fluid loss, keeping the system simple. SRAM has also updated the connection between the reservoir and the master cylinder bore- called the Timing Port. When the lever is squeezed, a cup seal passes this area and closes the port, which pressurizes the system. SRAM’s new timing port closure system features durable seals and an ultra-smooth cylinder bore finish, producing dependable braking power and consistency. The end result of the entire lever assembly is that you get excellent power and consistent lever pressure throughout the lever stroke, ensuring incredible feel and modulation in a lightweight, durable brake design that is easy to service top and bottom.

That is a lot of tech, for sure. But the end results are definitive improvement and excellent performance. Like it's Ultimate sibling, the Level TLM is compatible with both the MMX and Matchmaker mounting systems to keep your bars and controls manageable. Overall we are very impressed with this brake system. The weight, features, serviceability, design and looks are spot on and the performance even exceeds those qualities. It is amazing at how much improvement SRAM has been able to pack into these XC/Trail brakes. Any rider who favors XC/Trail and may not want to spend the money for the Ultimates should seriously consider the TLM. It makes more sense than dropping down to the TL, as you lose the Monoblock caliper, HeatShield, and the 21mm pistons. That is a much bigger performance drop, even with the lower cost factored in. The Level TLM is the sweet spot of the line, and like all sweet things, it is easy to love fall in love with.