Riders fitting or replacing the front brake on a flat-bar bike who want a simple, dependable hydraulic set.
This is the front brake from Shimano's Altus range: a BR-MT200 two-piston caliper, a BL-MT200 three-finger steel lever for the right-hand side and a black 1000 mm hose. Shimano sets the braking power for entry-level riders, at about 90% of its MT400 kit, and gives the lever a reach that suits smaller hands.
The caliper is a post-mount design that comes with B05S-RX resin pads, and Shimano quotes 40% wider pad clearance to cut pad rattle. It runs on Shimano mineral oil, with one-way bleeding at the caliper and funnel bleeding at the lever for clean, quick servicing.
Complete front set
Caliper, right-hand lever and 1000 mm hose in one set, so the parts are matched.
Tuned for entry-level riders
Braking power is set at about 90% of Shimano's MT400 kit.
Short, adjustable reach
The slender three-finger steel lever adjusts by tool down to a 75 mm minimum reach.
Quieter, cleaner service
40% wider pad clearance to reduce pad rattle, plus one-way bleeding and funnel bleeding.
Caliper (BR-MT200)
Lever, hose and set (BL-MT200)
Great for
Maybe not for
Takes 140, 160 or 180 mm rotors (rotor not included). Shimano recommends SM-RT10 or SM-RT26 rotors, which work with resin pads only. This is the front set with the right-hand lever.
Mineral oil only
The BR-MT200 system uses Shimano mineral oil. Never top it up or bleed it with DOT brake fluid, because it damages the seals. Brakes are a safety part, so have the set fitted and bled by a qualified mechanic.
