Are the brake levers exactly the same whether you buy XTR 9000 race or XTR9020 trail brakeset?
No
The race version doesn't have the tool less adjuster wheel.
So unless you're seriously racing xc or like the clean look and don't mind getting your tools out to adjust the lever on the trail then go with the trail version.
I don't think I was very clear.
Trail version the brake is adjustable at the lever on the fly and without tools.
Race version can only be adjusted with tools.
I thought the race version didn't have the servo wave thing at the lever too?
Yes - my understanding is no servowave on the Race version. Not sure if I'm allowed to link to MBR? https://www.mbr.co.uk/reviews/disc-brakes-products/shimano-xtr-dual-ctrl-hydraulic-244-67
Shimano offers two XTR brakes: Trail and Race. The latter lacks the power-boosting ServoWave lever design and finned brake pads, but it is lighter as a result.
I've got the M9000 Race and even with "just" 160mm rotors I've not wished for more stopping power.
Regarding on the fly adjustment, I've never seen the need for it and don't quite get why it's a "feature" of models higher up the range?
I found the race levers needed more regular bleeding to stop the bite point getting too close to the bars without ServoWave. A couple of people I ride with found the same. Bearing in mind that's on top of Shimano brakes needing bleeding more often than other brands anyway. On the upside the race brakes are a lot lighter and the modulation is better.
