The future of MTB brakes? SRAM patents a universal design that could become a new standard

After the success of their UDH system (Universal Derailleur Hanger) for the derailleur hanger, SRAM has just obtained a new patent that could change the current design of the rear brake caliper mount. The SRAM Universal Brake Mount is a brake mount threaded onto the rear axle, just like their UDH hanger, and bolted to the seatstay. This could set a new standard in the MTB industry.

SRAM Universal Brake Mount: a revolutionary patent for the rear brake caliper mount: the system prioritizes precision and efficiency

In the patent registered by SRAM and revealed by Pinkbike, the design of this brake mount proposes a solution to one of the most common problems in current systems: the alignment of the rear brake caliper due to frame manufacturing tolerances. This new system attaches the mount directly to the rear axle, in the same way as the UDH hanger, and with another anchor point on the frame's seatstay. This way, the brake caliper aligns precisely with the brake disc, avoiding extra adjustments and improving braking performance.

Furthermore, the patent indicates that this design significantly reduces stress on the frame, as it transfers braking loads directly to the mount instead of the frame itself. This not only would improve frame durability, but also reduce vibrations and annoying brake noises.

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The idea of a brake mount anchored to the rear axle is not new and we have already seen it on mountain bikes like the MMR Kenta or the Ghost AMR Riot, but SRAM's approach aims to standardize this concept, making it compatible with a wide range of frame designs and suspension systems. However, it may not be viable in all cases as some bikes have suspension pivots incompatible with this system.

In any case, the industry's adoption of this mount could signify a new paradigm shift in frame manufacturing and another significant point for SRAM as they establish a new common path. Frame manufacturers could benefit from this system by reducing costs associated with brake mount development and manufacturing, as well as offering improvements in safety, weight, and durability.

What could be behind this mount?

This SRAM patent not only opens the door to a possible standardization of brake mounts and an overall improvement in braking performance, but it could also be the giant American company's first step towards introducing perhaps some new technology in the future, similar to what happened with the Transmission groups.

SRAM first presented and offered their UDH derailleur hanger selflessly, and then, when frame manufacturers had already accepted the standard, they introduced a new derailleur that was directly attached to this type of frame.

We will be attentive to new updates from SRAM and the response from manufacturers. Could this be the next big breakthrough in the world of MTB? Only time will tell, but expectations are high.