Why I Swapped the Braktec Recall Brakes on the 2025 GasGas for Brembo

***Update: March 1 - March 31 - Enter to win this dirt bike by placing an order here***

Why I Swapped the Braktec Brakes on the 2023-2025 GasGas for Brembo

As a dirt bike enthusiast with over 10 years of experience riding and reviewing, I’ve always had strong opinions on the components that make or break a bike's performance. One of the most important parts of a bike that often gets overlooked (or at least isn't given enough credit) is are the brakes we bolt onto them. Over the years, I've tested many different brands of brakes, but when it comes down to it, there’s always been one brand that stands out: Brembo.

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Now, don’t get me wrong — Braktec has certainly been around in the industry for some time, especially on bikes from KTM's sister brands like Husqvarna and GasGas in recent years. I've also had them on many of my kid's bikes like the KTM 65s and the KTM and Husky 85s. For the smaller bikes, they have been fine.  Sometimes I've felt they are "grabby" when I ride my kids bikes, which is another thing.  However, I’ve always felt that Braktec brakes don't have the same "feel" or power as their competitors on the big bikes. In my experience, the modulation just isn't as responsive, and the braking power falls short when compared to brands like Brembo, Magura, or even Nissin as you'd see on most of the Japanese brand bikes.

KTM, Husky, and GasGas: The Braktec Dilemma

KTM, known for its high-performance bikes, has traditionally outfitted its bikes with Brembo brakes. These brakes are a go-to for many top riders, offering precision and power when you need it most. However, there’s one catch — demand for Brembo brakes can sometimes exceed supply for KTM and the other bikes under it's tent. This is especially true when it comes to their Husqvarna and GasGas models. As a result, these (non-orange) bikes often ship with Braktec brakes as a substitute in my opinion.

The Braktec Recall: A Bummer for GasGas Owners

To make matters worse, Braktec recently announced a recall on the brakes used on the 2023, 2024, and 2025 GasGas models. This is disappointing, to say the least, especially for riders who are looking for reliability and consistency in their bike's performance. The recall adds another layer of frustration for anyone who’s already dealt with Braktec's subpar performance and now has to deal with the hassle of getting them replaced.

This is particularly tough for me, as I had planned to feature one of these bikes in the DBC Sweepstakes for March 2025. I wanted to offer a top-of-the-line bike to my audience, and that means no compromises on performance.

Swapping to Brembo: Worth the Investment

So, what’s the solution? Well, I decided to do what I’ve usually done when faced with a challenge — go directly at it. I swapped out the Braktec brakes on the GasGas for a set of Brembo brakes. Now, I know this is not a cheap upgrade. If you’re going with OEM Brembo components, the cost can range around $1,500, depending on a few factors (like whether you go for the front and rear brake kits or individual components).

But for me, it was an easy decision. The bike already has upgraded suspension, and I wasn't about to skimp on the braking system. If I’m going to offer the best experience possible for my audience, I want to make sure that every aspect of the bike is top-notch, and that includes the brakes.

Why Brembo?

When it comes to brakes, Brembo is simply in a league of its own. They’re known for offering exceptional performance, precise modulation, and more stopping power than most riders can even fully utilize, unless they are running new rubber. Whether you’re riding in technical terrain, taking on steep downhill sections, riding the moto track, or pushing your bike to its limits on tight trails, you need a braking system that inspires confidence.

Brembo brakes deliver that confidence. The power, feel, and overall reliability are second to none, and it’s why they’re the go-to choice for professional riders all over the world.

The Bottom Line: Investing in Performance

I’m not going to pretend that upgrading to Brembo brakes on a GasGas is a cheap move. I wouldn't have done it on this project if it wasn't for the recall on Braktec. Still, I wanted to offer my followers and sweepstakes winners a bike that’s as close to perfection as possible — a bike that performs when it matters most. So, with the recall and my own experiences with Braktec brakes in mind, I’ve decided to invest in the best, and that’s Brembo.

If you're considering a similar upgrade, keep in mind that it’s an investment in both safety and performance. Brakes are one of the most important components on your bike, and when you ride hard, you need a system that you can trust. For me, that’s Brembo, and it’s why I’ve made the switch on this GasGas, so that the winner will not have to worry at all.

Stay tuned for more updates, and if you're interested in the DBC Sweepstakes, you can look forward to a fully upgraded machine coming your way in March 2025!

I bought all the parts for the swap over here at Rocky Mountain ATV/MC.  Using these links might end up winning the GasGas for you!

If you are reading this between March 1 and March 31, 2025 - enter to win by making a purchase on my website.  Automatic entry with all orders.