The difference between the MT5 and the MT7 lies in the detail. As well as a different brake transmission ratio, the details of the brake calipers differ.
Upon close inspection the MT5 has a noticably larger airspace between the rotor and the brake pads. The reason for this is a greater piston retraction space as a result of different contruction on the inside of the caliper. Overall this means that the MT5 is easier to set up without grinding and has a bitepoint that feels less direct than the MT7.
With a higher transmission ratio, the MT7 offers overall more braking power und a more direct braking sensation. The bite point however feels slightly softer that the MT5.
Note: The described diffrences also apply to the MT Trail Sport (using the MT5 brake caliper on the front wheel and MT5 brake lever) and the MT Trail SL (using the MT7 brake caliper on the front wheel and the MT7 break lever).
Important: We recommend not to switch parts of the MT5 and MT7 because they have been individually adapted to each other. Due to the individual differences of both models we do not recommend nor approve combinations of the two.