Hope Technology makes some of the most lustworthy components in the industry, and the brand’s Tech 4 brakes have somewhat of a cult following. After four years, the folks at Hope decided it was time to give the Tech 4 an update, or an evolution, if you will, and the result is the new EVO Brake range.
Hope didn’t start completely from scratch, but with updates to the master cylinder, calipers, levers, and even the maintenance procedure, it sounds like quite a bit has changed. Thankfully, the three brake EVO range covers all the bases, making it fairly easy to choose the right brakes for your riding style. The new range includes the EVO GR4 for gravity riders and e-bikes, the EVO TR4 for mid-duty trail use, and the EVO X2 for cross-country bikes.
Hope EVO Brakes: What’s New?
Hope says the EVO Brakes are a refinement of the Tech 4, with a handful of updates building off the already solid foundation of its predecessors. According to Hope, one of the biggest updates was to the master cylinder. Using a new cam mechanism, they say they’ve reduced the free stroke while maintaining the modulation and lever feel that riders know and love. Additionally, they say that adding a secondary guide bushing and sliding guide to the piston assembly has improved smoothness through the lever stroke.
Hope also updated the caliper bodies “for greater stiffness, improved hub/frame compatibility, and streamlined profiles.” In addition to improving braking performance, this should make it easier for more riders to fit Hope brakes on their bikes.
Other Key Updates
- 3 Lever blade options: Standard, Control & Power. (Control and Power are after-market purchases)
- Ergonomics: Redesigned lever with increased hook and new dimple texture for maximum grip and control in all conditions.
- Improved Modulation: New cam design and piston improvements deliver firmer bite point and improved feel throughout the braking zone.
- Smooth & Predictable Lever Feel: Upgraded internal piston mechanics and roller-bearing pivots ensure consistent performance and feel.
- Simplified Bleeding & Maintenance: A new master cylinder bleed port allows clean, tool-efficient bleeding without lid removal.
- Improved Pad Wear Consistency: Caliper tweaks to improve brake feel across the entire pad lifespan.
Hope’s New EVO Brake Models
The EVO range is split into three models with performance and features intended to serve the needs of different riders and riding styles. These models include the EVO GR4 four-piston gravity brake, providing maximum power for gravity riders and e-bikes. The EVO TR4 is a four-piston trail brake, and the EVO X2 is the lightweight two-piston model aimed at cross-country riders. As always, Hope’s products are designed, tested, and made in the UK. All models will be available in black and silver, along with colored accents in the typical Hope colors. Let’s see what Hope has to say about them.
Hope EVO GR4 – 4 Piston Gravity Brake
“Maximum power, zero compromise. Engineered for gravity and e-bike use, the one-piece GR4 caliper features a stiffer one-piece body, larger pistons (6% more power vs. Tech 4 V4), and a slimmer profile for better frame compatibility. They are deliberately not compatible for vented rotors, to maximize caliper stiffness and performance.“
Hope EVO GR4 Price
- Black hose-RRP £240.00 //€301.50 // $314.00(ex tax)
- Braided hose-RRP £250.00//€314.00 // $327.10(ex tax)
Hope EVO TR4 – 4 Piston Trail Brake
“Trail-proven power with balanced modulation. The one-piece TR4 caliper with larger pistons and shared GR4 pads delivers a 6.5% increase in braking ratio over the previous E4 system—ideal for trail and all-mountain use.“
Hope EVO TR4 Price
- Black hose-RRP £225.00 //€282.60 // $294.40(ex tax)
- Braided hose-RRP £235.00//€295.20 // $307.50(ex tax)
Hope EVO X2 – 2 Piston XC Brake
“Lightweight, smooth, and precise. The EVO X2 pairs the new EVO master cylinder with the X2 caliper for riders who prioritise lever feel and control over sheer power—ideal for cross-country and lighter duty use.”
Hope EVO X2 Price
- Black hose-RRP £205.00 //€257.50 // $268.20(ex tax)
- Braided hose-RRP £215.00//€270.00 // $281.30(ex tax)
Hope EVO Brake Range: Availability
Hope is announcing its new EVO Brakes today, but they won’t be available until the 1st of September. In the meantime, you can learn more about them or plan your purchase by visiting the brand’s website.
