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Dominion A4 Brakes: The Radavist Rides and Approves
Aug 12, 2025
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When riders talk, we listen—and it seems we’re not the only ones.
After years of requests, The Radavist finally put the Hayes Dominion A4 brakes through their paces. The verdict? “Phenomenal.”
A Braking Revelation
In his recent “Summer 2025 Picks,” The Radavist’s John Watson made it clear: the Dominion A4s delivered a level of performance that exceeded expectations. Coming off a long stint riding Magura brakes, he didn’t know what to expect—but found himself thoroughly impressed.
“These brakes have been phenomenal. I have big hands and I love the lever feel.” — John Watson, The Radavist
The Dominion A4’s purposeful design and attention to detail stood out, from the clearly marked lever adjustments to the ability to run either caliper as front or rear. Every aspect of the brakes screams designed by riders, for riders.
Precision Meets Power
It’s not just the feel—it’s the performance. According to the review, the Dominion A4 nails that elusive sweet spot between modulation and power. Whether feathering through steep switchbacks or grabbing a full fist of brake in high-speed emergencies, the A4s deliver consistent, confidence-inspiring control.
“The Dominions are smack in the middle, offering incredible power and stiffness when you need that bite, while feathering and modulation remain constant and effortless.”
A Braking Revelation
In his recent “Summer 2025 Picks,” The Radavist’s John Watson made it clear: the Dominion A4s delivered a level of performance that exceeded expectations. Coming off a long stint riding Magura brakes, he didn’t know what to expect—but found himself thoroughly impressed.
“These brakes have been phenomenal. I have big hands and I love the lever feel.” — John Watson, The Radavist
The Dominion A4’s purposeful design and attention to detail stood out, from the clearly marked lever adjustments to the ability to run either caliper as front or rear. Every aspect of the brakes screams designed by riders, for riders.
Precision Meets Power
It’s not just the feel—it’s the performance. According to the review, the Dominion A4 nails that elusive sweet spot between modulation and power. Whether feathering through steep switchbacks or grabbing a full fist of brake in high-speed emergencies, the A4s deliver consistent, confidence-inspiring control.
“The Dominions are smack in the middle, offering incredible power and stiffness when you need that bite, while feathering and modulation remain constant and effortless.”
Tested and Trusted
Even after a minor warranty hiccup—a known issue that Hayes has actively addressed—the reviewer praised the company’s quick response and the brakes’ reliability since.
Sure, the Dominions aren’t the lightest on the market (clocking in at over 500g per end with rotors), but as John points out, that’s a small price for durability, control, and sheer stopping power.
“Everything about this product is done with a thoughtful intentionality. You can really tell the designers used this product extensively during the iterations.”
Why Dominion A4?
The Dominion A4 was built to meet the needs of aggressive trail riders, enduro racers, and gravity athletes alike. With its four-piston calipers, tool-free reach adjustment, and unbeatable feel, it remains the go-to choice for riders who demand the most from their braking system.
Whether you’re bombing tech trails in the PNW, chasing podiums in the Alps, or building your dream bike in the garage, the Dominion A4 has your back when it matters most.
Sure, the Dominions aren’t the lightest on the market (clocking in at over 500g per end with rotors), but as John points out, that’s a small price for durability, control, and sheer stopping power.
“Everything about this product is done with a thoughtful intentionality. You can really tell the designers used this product extensively during the iterations.”
Why Dominion A4?
The Dominion A4 was built to meet the needs of aggressive trail riders, enduro racers, and gravity athletes alike. With its four-piston calipers, tool-free reach adjustment, and unbeatable feel, it remains the go-to choice for riders who demand the most from their braking system.
Whether you’re bombing tech trails in the PNW, chasing podiums in the Alps, or building your dream bike in the garage, the Dominion A4 has your back when it matters most.
Tested and Trusted
Even after a minor warranty hiccup—a known issue that Hayes has actively addressed—the reviewer praised the company’s quick response and the brakes’ reliability since.
Sure, the Dominions aren’t the lightest on the market (clocking in at over 500g per end with rotors), but as John points out, that’s a small price for durability, control, and sheer stopping power.
“Everything about this product is done with a thoughtful intentionality. You can really tell the designers used this product extensively during the iterations.”
Why Dominion A4?
The Dominion A4 was built to meet the needs of aggressive trail riders, enduro racers, and gravity athletes alike. With its four-piston calipers, tool-free reach adjustment, and unbeatable feel, it remains the go-to choice for riders who demand the most from their braking system.
Whether you’re bombing tech trails in the PNW, chasing podiums in the Alps, or building your dream bike in the garage, the Dominion A4 has your back when it matters most.
Sure, the Dominions aren’t the lightest on the market (clocking in at over 500g per end with rotors), but as John points out, that’s a small price for durability, control, and sheer stopping power.
“Everything about this product is done with a thoughtful intentionality. You can really tell the designers used this product extensively during the iterations.”
Why Dominion A4?
The Dominion A4 was built to meet the needs of aggressive trail riders, enduro racers, and gravity athletes alike. With its four-piston calipers, tool-free reach adjustment, and unbeatable feel, it remains the go-to choice for riders who demand the most from their braking system.
Whether you’re bombing tech trails in the PNW, chasing podiums in the Alps, or building your dream bike in the garage, the Dominion A4 has your back when it matters most.
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