SRAM Code Ultimate Stealth Brakes [Rider Review]

Our "Rider Review" article series features the honest reviews from verified purchasers of Worldwide Cyclery. They contain the photos, thoughts, feedback & overall review you are looking for.

With all of the hype for a clean looking cockpit since all of the new SRAM AXS products came out, SRAM redesigned their brakes to become more conducive to the cable-free cockpits. The new Stealth Codes are still just as powerful as before, but with a new look. See what our customer thinks about the new levers!

Overview

I purchased these SRAM Ultimate Stealth brakes and calipers from Worldwide Cyclery for a new Santa Cruz 5010 bike build. I have experience with SRAM CODE R brakes on another bike, so I was confident in their performance and ease of use. I also welcomed the updated design which keeps the brake lever and assembly closer to the handlebar giving a cleaner look and less susceptibility to damage (in my opinion). The OEM sale on this set allowed me to purchased the top tier grade (ultimate) for the 2nd tier (silver) price. I was hesitant with the all silver calipers since I prefer a more subdued look and would prefer the black calipers as included with the Silver Stealth version, but after installing, the silver calipers match the already silver rotos and it blends nicely. The ultimate version also adds titanium hardware and a carbon fiber lever.

Installation is a breeze with SRAM’s online YouTube channel tutorials. The bleeding process is also a breeze with the right equipment; SRAM really has this process simplified with their brake bleed kit. Just attach the syringes, follow the steps, disconnect everything, and you’ll have a fresh bleed on your new brakes. Some of SRAM’s torque specs can be difficult to differentiate between models, so a more simplified chart for the Stealth line would be appreciated. Be aware that when purchasing an unboxed kit like this it likely came off a new bike build, so it does not come with caliper mounting screws or handle bar clamps. You’ll also need new Olive’s and barbs if you intend to shorten the brake lines since those parts cannot be reused. Again, these came off another new bike, so you’ll likely have to shorten them. Once installed, aligning the calipers to the rotors was also simple. Just keep the mounting bolts loose, squeeze the brake pads a few times, and they will self-center. Then tighten everything up while holding the brake lever. Don’t forget the bedding process for new brakes/rotors! I wasn’t aware of this on my first bike build and ended with noisy brakes with an irregular feel.

I followed SRAM’s recommended process and they feel great. They have a soft start and don’t bite too quickly, which I think makes subtle adjustments to reduce speed difficult, such as with wheelie’s, rear end lift, and manuals. But when you add hard pressure in a downhill situation, they bite hard. The carbon levers also have a nice feel (and not cold in cold weather) and should be resistant to bending or breaking during a crash. I really have no complaints beyond the torque specs and some will debate mineral oil vs DOT fluid; both have their pros and cons, but I haven’t developed any preference.

Final Thoughts

And best of all, they look great. The silver and black design on the brake module perfectly matches (unintentionally done) my TAG Metals stem. The MMX mounting options keep my shifter and dropper release clean, light, and out of the way. My wheelie’s have instantly gotten better. There’s a reason so many top tier bike manufacturers are using these as standard on their new bikes.