BIKERUMOR.com 2009 SEA OTTER CLASSIC COVERAGE: Formula’s R1 hydraulic disc brake isn’t brand new, it’s been out for a bit, but it seemed to be on just about every lightweight bike vendors were displaying. And it won Olympic Gold. And it was developed using Downhill technology…but it’s for XC.
The R1 uses a forged body (notice the whole thing’s one piece, not two halves bolted together) with 22mm pistons, which helps it offer powerful braking despite its diminutive size and weight.  The entire system is 270g per wheel.  Even the brake pads were designed to minimize weight…they use aluminum backings.
The red bits add a little flair to the otherwise matte black anodization on both the caliper and lever body.  The Master Cylinder is a new forged, one piece design with a high capacity reservoir.  The levers have a flip-flop clamp to ease installation, and they have dual bleed ports for easy on-the-bike bleeds.
Hit “more” for additional specs and pics…
The 100g (160mm) two-piece rotor saves weight by using aluminum for the spider. Switching to a 2-piece rotor dropped 20g from the previous set.
Magnesium levers with a small hex bolt (not visible) for reach adjust.
They’re made in Italy and have an MSRP of $385/wheel
