I used Shimano, would have used Magura if I just went off what looked a cooler colour and to try something different but spent a lot of time reading through multiple forums about what works best with what ect and seems Shimano is the better option. Sure if I put Royal Blood in though I wouldn't notice any difference. I don't know if it's the larger internal diameter of the Magura hoses or the fact it's an XTR lever but the brakes defintely feel a bit less stiff to pull than a full SLX setup. Well happy with them though and that's just with the stock pads that come with the MT5, nit even MT7 race or even better Trickstuff pads and they are still by miles the most powerful brake I have ever used and probably the quietest too.
