Underpowered brakes lead to defensive riding technique and, ultimately, to slower lap times. Enter the new Shimano XTR BR-M985/BL-M985 XC-Race Pre-Bled Disc Brake Kit, which encourages racers to attack technical downhill sections with confidence, leaving the competition squealing and squawking in the dust.

How? First off, they produce 110 percent of the power of their predecessors while shedding precious grams at the same time, so they’re as viable a race-bike pick as ever. Throw in ergonomically re-engineered lever pivots and XTR Race lays on that power with single-finger effort.

But power is pointless if it can't be maintained. Heat buildup is the enemy of any brake system, and IceTech features including aluminum-core rotors, stock aluminum-backed brake pads and the industry's first full ceramic caliper piston all help dump heat and maintain consistent power. For Super-D courses or for heavier riders, brakes can be easily upgraded with Radiator pads (standard on XTR Trail).

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