[MTB / Hybrid Bike] Hydraulic Brake Manufacturers for Flat Bars

Modified at: Mar 28, 2025

Posted at: Jun 12, 2024

An overview of manufacturers that produce hydraulic brakes for flat-bar MTB and hybrid bikes, along with their key features. Also includes tips on how to choose the right flat-bar hydraulic brake brand.

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on cyclabo. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Table of contents

Major Hydraulic Brake Manufacturers for Flat Bar Bikes

Manufacturer	Main Product Series	Features
Shimano	XT, XTR, Deore XT, SLX, etc.	A staple in Japan known for high reliability and performance. Offers both high-end and affordable hydraulic brake sets.
SRAM	MOTIVE, MAVEN, DB, Level, Guide, Code	Popular in the MTB segment. Brake systems are separate from drivetrain lines. Prices tend to be on the higher side.
Magura	MT Series (MT5, MT7)	Lightweight and high performance, especially strong for downhill use.
Hope	Tech 3 E4, Tech 3 X2	Precision manufacturing with customizable options.
TRP	G-Spec Trail S, Slate T4	Tektro’s premium brand. High performance and great cost-effectiveness.
Hayes	Dominion, Prime	Well-balanced performance and excellent cost-performance.

Shimano

When it comes to hydraulic brakes for MTBs and hybrid bikes, Shimano is the go-to brand. While it’s not as dominant as it is in the road bike segment, Shimano remains a staple in the MTB category as well.

Shimano’s hydraulic brakes for flat bars stand out for their ease of maintenance (such as one-way bleeding), affordability, and wide price range.

What makes Shimano attractive is not just their high-end offerings but also the reliable stopping power even in their low-cost models. Whether for casual riding or hobby use, you can count on consistent performance and quality.

Unlike drop-bar (road bike) models that only feature hydraulic brakes from the mid-tier TIAGRA level and up, Shimano offers hydraulic brakes even in the lower-end flat-bar models, making them an affordable entry point to hydraulic systems.

SRAM

SRAM has been gaining a strong presence, especially in the MTB segment.

While SRAM’s flat bar drivetrain components are branded under the Eagle series, their brake systems are run on a separate product line.

Previously, SRAM brakes were categorized as:

Cross-Country: LEVEL
Trail/All-Mountain: Guide
Downhill/Enduro: Code

However, in March 2025, the branding was updated:

Heavy Duty (XC, Trail): MOTIVE, DB series
Extreme Duty

Magura

Magura is one of the most highly regarded brake manufacturers in the MTB world. For flat bar bikes, their hydraulic brake lineup includes the MT series (MT5, MT7, MT8).

Magura’s hydraulic brakes are known for their lightweight and high performance, making them especially popular for downhill and enduro bikes, where strong stopping power and weight reduction are critical.

However, the combination of “lightweight” and “high performance” comes at a cost—their price point is relatively high.

Hope

The UK-based bike component manufacturer Hope also offers hydraulic brake systems for flat bar setups.

In terms of performance, some say they don’t stop quite as sharply as Shimano brakes. However, given that they can be found on overseas bike retail sites for around ¥4,000 for a front-rear set, they offer outstanding cost performance.

Hope is a great value hydraulic brake option for those prioritizing price over peak performance.

TRP

While TRP is often associated with its popular mechanical disc brake series SPYRE, the brand also has a solid range of hydraulic brakes.

As a premium brand under Tektro, TRP products are known for durability and excellent cost performance, making them well-suited for a wide range of riding styles from trail to enduro.

Hayes

Hayes, an American brake manufacturer, is known for brakes used in motorcycles and other vehicles, but they also produce reliable bicycle brake systems.

Hayes’ hydraulic brakes for flat bar bikes may not have the sleek, lightweight, race-oriented appearance of Shimano models, but they are valued for their robust construction and well-balanced performance.

Which Hydraulic Brakes for Flat Bars Should You Choose?

Shimano as the First Choice

If you’re looking for hydraulic brakes for a flat bar bike, Shimano should be your starting point. With a wide selection from entry-level to high-end, it’s easy to find something that fits your needs. Plus, consumables like brake pads and rotors are readily available and affordable, making Shimano brakes a great long-term option.

That said, Shimano’s MTB components tend to lean toward race-focused designs, especially for cross-country (XC) use. If your priority is braking power over light weight, such as in downhill or enduro riding, it may be worth considering other brands.

For More Serious MTB Rides, Consider SRAM

SRAM continues to grow its presence in the MTB world and offers a wide range of brake types—not only 2-piston calipers for general use, but also a strong lineup of 4-piston calipers that are ideal for downhill and enduro riding.

While SRAM’s pricing is generally higher, making them less cost-effective for casual commuting or everyday riding, they’re a solid choice for serious