Pinkbike Cura 4 Review
In March 2026, Pinkbike published one of the most detailed mountain bike brake comparisons in recent years. The test evaluated ten four-piston brakes combining lab-style measurements with real-world performance.
Among the contenders was the Formula Cura 4. While the raw results tell one story, a broader view paints a more complete picture.
Lightweight Champion
At just 260 grams, the Cura 4 was the lightest brake on test. It undercut the next lightest brake by 34g.
For riders focused on trail and enduro riding – where weight, efficiency, and long-day comfort matter – this is important.
Power Isn’t Everything
In the headline stopping test, the Cura 4 placed 8th. But braking performance isn’t defined by a single number.
What was interesting was that when the Pinkbike community crunched the numbers and looked at the full picture – including power, modulation, weight, price, and adjustability – the Cura 4 ranked 6th overall, reinforcing its position as a well-rounded brake.
Real Long Term Reviews
Pinkbike put plenty of time into testing the brakes, but it’s always good to know how a product holds up way beyond the usual testing period. The Cura 4 review generated over 100 comments from readers, with long-term Formula brake users stepping in to share their long-term real-world insights. Many highlighted low maintenance and consistent performance over years of use, with some reporting minimal servicing beyond an annual bleed.
Pad Choice
A key point from the comments sections was that the Cura 4 performs best with sintered brake pads rather than the stock organic ones. Many Cura 4 owners noted a significant increase in stopping power with this simple upgrade.
The Cura 4 comes fitted with organic pads as these are what the majority of riders and OE customers prefer. They balance low noise, ease of bedding-in and all-round performance. For riders looking for more power, we recommend fitting sintered pads, although noise will increase and proper bedding-in is required to get the most out of them.
The All-Rounder
While some more gravity-focussed brakes dominated the pure stopping power tests, the Cura 4 targets a different rider: someone tackling long trail rides, big alpine days, and varied terrain where low weight, reliability, and consistency matter just as much as outright power.
The Bigger Picture
The Pinkbike test proved that there is no single ‘best’ brake, only the right brake for the job.
For riders looking for a lightweight, competitively priced, and proven four-pot trail brake, the Cura 4 is a compelling choice. With strong long-term reliability and customisation options, it stands out as a product shaped – and judged – not just by lab results, but by real-world riding experience.
Read the Pinkbike review here.
