[test] Avid Code 5

Released in 2008, the Code 5 have enlarged the Avid brakes range for freeride and downhill, positioning as more affordable brakes than the Avid Code, known as a reference. A good point for riders who want to get reliable, progressive and powerful brakes at a reasonable price ...

Official description…

This is what happens when a Juicy falls in love with a Code and they have a kid. You get the tenacious four piston Code caliper with the proven performance of a Juicy-style lever, all in one brake system. This baby's been simplified to make it easy on the debit card and the Avid family values are still intact (Caliper Positioning System, Power Reserve Geometry, and drip-free bleeding).

Test results after 4 months...

Test made on Avid Code 5 in 203 mm Front / Rear (2008 model) on an Iron Horse downhill bike (Yakuza Kumicho)

Although the Code 5 are "cheaper" than the Code, quality and finishing remain excellent. Regarding the assembly, the ambidextrous desing for the levers is great and will especially satisfy motorcyclists. No adjustments are necessary, since the positioning of brakes pads is automatic.

Heading towards test field for a riding session. Actually, from the very firsts high speed brakes, the brakes appear to be really powerful. You could almost forget that you’ve new pads! This first good impression gets even stronger in normal use, once brake pads are operational. A real pleasure to use… The Code 5 are precise, respond to the finest touch and remain enduring even in the most demanding conditions, in mountains. Untill then, I was using the Hayes HFX-9 on my DH bike… Well, no comment! I’ve just discovered what braking meant.

Note : 17/20

Technical specs
Code 5 Facts
Intended use: All Mountain, Freeride, Downhill
Finish: Dead Moss Gray body/caliper and black lever
Special features: Four piston caliper, Tri-Align™ Caliper Positioning System™, Power Reserve Geometry™, Center-mount adjustable banjo, Ambidextrous, Split Clamp/Matchmaker™ compatible, Drip-free bleeding, Indexed reach adjustment
Rotor sizes: 160, 185, 203mm
Fluid DOT 4
Weight 447 g (160mm rotor, fixation Post Mount)
Average price: 280 € Rear/Front pair (vs. 400 € for the Code model)

Avid official site (Avid is part of the SRAM Group)