Schmolke, benchmark for oversized handlebars too?!

18 years ago Stefan Schmolke impressed the cycling world with the first ever carbon fibre road handlebar. His success, which he developed in the course of his master thesis at the Rüsselsheim University, was only the beginning for Schmolke Carbon, his innovative enterprise. Others, by now well known products, developed with painstaking thoroughness, were to follow. The latest addition to the family now is an oversized road handlebar. Needless to say it again comes with a world-record weight.

The obvious advantage of an oversized handlebar is its middle section’s larger diameter. This leads to a considerably stiffer handlebar.
In addition to that its wide and flat top makes for an ergonomic and comfortable grip when riding with your hands on the tops. The flat section design is also more aerodynamic than the round-section version with its larger frontal area. With its drop and reach of 138mm and 95mm respectively this handlebar is also designed with ergonomics in mind for both the drop and the hood position. In addition to that the handlebar comes with recessed cable grooves on its underside. The radiuses of the side parts follow the well proven design of the compact series. The new oversize bars weigh in at a spectacularly low 125g to 155g (depending on bar width and rider’s weight) for the top-of-the-line TLO version. The slightly dearer SL version comes with a weight of 160g to 175g.

Like all other Schmolke parts “the new one“ is available in choice of finishes (1K, 3K and 12K).
The handlebars are available in 44cm width (as measured from the outside to the outside), different widths will be available soon.

Price:
390 € - SL-Version
570 € - TLO-Version

Sram XX - 10speed MTB!

First pics of Srams complete new high-end 10speed mountain bike groupset:

Claimed sub 2300g including disc brakes. The rear cassette will likely be based on the innovative PowerDome design of the Red road-groupset but modified for better performance in muddy conditions with a more open architecture. The 11-34 tooth range is unlikely to change much but the additional ratio in the middle will mean smaller jumps between gears, something racers always like. Other options: 26/39, 28/42, 30/44 at front - Cassette 11-32 and 11-34. Avids new “XX-Brake”:

To be available mid-year 2009.
source: wheelgiant.com.tw

Time RXR Ulteam

Time presents the new RXR Ulteam Frame. After inventing the TRANSLINK integrated carbon seat tube, the multi-diameter steerer and the QUICKSET headset concept, TIME distinguishes itself again with the RXR ULTEAM. Inspired by the RXR CHRONO time trial module, winner of the World TT championship in its first participation, the RXR ULTEAM symbolizes the best of TIME technology. Thanks to high tech design tools and computer modeling, each tube has been optimized for the benefit of performance and aerodynamics. The result: the RXR enjoys a SCX (capacity of penetration of the air) among the most favorable in the industry. The new fork with multi diameter steerer guarantees strength, light weight, and stability with exceptional steering precision. The TIME-patented multi-diameter steerer, combined with an oversize lower bearing (always using TIME’s specific bearing designs), guarantees total security with outstanding resistance to shock.
Among other innovations, also note the new optimized aerodynamic shape and seat height adjustability of the TRANSLINK seat tube, as well as front derailleur height adjustability with the choice of 2 attachment positions.
All TIME riders like Pierrick Fédrigo (Bouygues Telecom) will be using the RXR Ulteam throughout next season.

Tech specs:

* Evolutionary sloping geometry in 6 sizes
* Optimized tube designs in HM Carbon with Vibraser technology
* Full Carbon lugs
* Optimized Full Carbon bottom bracket shell, TRANSLINK seat tube and RXR Ulteam wishbone
* Asymmetrical chainstays
* Specific one-piece monobloc carbon fork with multidiameter steerer with CMT dropouts
* Quickset headset with oversize lower bearing
* MONOLINK RXR ULTEAM carbon stem with CMT insert
* TIME Ergo-Force handlebar (in back for RXR VIP and white for BBox)
* CMT seatpost head and saddle cradle
* Removable aluminum front derailleur mount
* Aluminum 7075 T6 brake fixing nuts
* Carbon bottle cage with carbon bolts
* Carbon bottle cage
* Frame weight: 1100 grams (± 5%)
* Module (frame, fork, headset, stem) w/ handlebar weight: 1930 grams (± 5%)

via Bikerumor.com / time.fr

Io DuPont Power Cordz 2009

Io DuPont, maker of Power Cordz High-Performance Cable Systems, is proud to announce the release of their new 1.2mm Derailleur Cordz sets and complete cable systems. 1.2mm Cordz are modeled after 1.2mm steel cables for compatibility, but made from a super-fiber called Zylon that is as strong as steel and reduces weight over 75% (weighing less than 3g each) comparatively. “This is an exciting product for us coming into 2009, our customers asked for this product and we’ve delivered!” says Tony DuPont, Inventor of Power Cordz and Founder of Io DuPont.

The new super-light Derailleur Cordz offer full compatibility with all standard shift systems - i.e. Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo. They will also work with standard 4mm housing and lightweight aftermarket housing systems. “Our leadership position in the high-end cable market is reinforced as the 1.2mm Cordz solve the compatibility issues we faced with our 1.5mm Derailleur Cordz. Shifter modification and 5mm housing requirements are history, which alleviates the issues concerning potential users and manufacturers” says Philip Vega, Power Cordz Brand Manager. The 1.2mm Cordz are available in two package configurations – a Cordz only set called the 1.2mm Derailleur Cordz Set ($36.95), and as a complete system - Derailleur System 4mm ($69.00) featuring Cordz, Teflon™ coating housing, and sealed alloy ferrules.

Like all Power Cordz Systems, 1.2mm Cordz utilize Zylon fiber to significantly reduce weight and prevent permanent stretch or deformation, which is a problem with old-fashioned steel cables. 1.2mm Cordz alone will shave roughly 20-25 grams from your bike at a reasonable price compared to other composite upgrades. In addition, the new Cordz use the same slick nylon coating to eliminate fraying and reduce corrosion which is another major problem for steel cables. A properly installed set of Power Cordz will last 2-3 times longer than steel cables reducing maintenance and labor costs over time. The 1.2mm Derailleur Cordz are available to the IBD through BTI, KHS and by contacting Power Cordz direct. For more information about Power Cordz, check out www.powercordz.com . For Sales and Marketing, contact Philip Vega via phone - (208) 908-0630 or email -pvega@powercordz.com .

About Power Cordz – Based in Boise, ID, Io DuPont develops high-end technology products to optimize performance of its intended application. Our flagship product, Power Cordz™ is a synthetic fiber cable system designed to address the problems of steel control cables currently used on the bicycle. Steel cables are prone to stretching, fraying, corrosion, and they carry unnecessary weight. Years of research, testing and teaming up with the best synthetic fiber experts were necessary to produce Power Cordz, a fiber control cord that does not corrode and is 75% lighter than the current standard! Power Cordz are sold worldwide through multiple distribution chains.

source: Philip Vega - Director of Sales and Marketing at Io DuPont.

Mavic R-sys recall

This notice from Mavic is addressed to users of R-SYS front wheels:

Annecy, January 5th 2009. As part of its ongoing commitment to customer safety and satisfaction, Mavic has announced a voluntary recall of its R-SYS front wheels as a precautionary safety measure.

Mavic has identified that the carbon tubular spokes of the R-SYS front wheel may break during use in certain circumstances and causing the rider to lose control and possibly fall, potentially sustaining injury.

All models of Mavic R-SYS front wheels are concerned (R-SYS, R-SYS test, R-SYS Premium), whether purchased separately or as part of a bicycle. The wheels must no longer be used.

Consumers should immediately return their front wheel to a Mavic dealer; and a new upgraded R-SYS front wheel will be delivered free of charge. This exchange will start from 31st of March 2009. Until this date, and to facilitate the continued use of your bicycle, Mavic will offer a set of Aksium wheel that customers will keep after they have received the replacement R-SYS front wheel.

For any further question, please ask your Mavic Dealer,
or call the following number: 00 800 234 788 75
for USA and Canada: 1-800-664-9228
for Austria: 01 54663 5521

Mavic regrets any inconvenience We appreciate your understanding and, we look forward to providing you a superior upgrade to the one of the finest wheels on the market.

SID Travels to Beijing Olympics

Select RockShox sponsored athletes competing in this year’s Olympic games have been given a special Beijing Limited Edition SID. These are sure to be coveted, as there are no plans for this version to become publicly available. Graphic Designer, Russ Forbes lead the graphic design of the Beijing Edition SID. Forbes said, “The Celestial Chinese Dragon is often seen as the symbol of the Chinese. It symbolizes power and excellence, valiancy and boldness. A dragon overcomes obstacles until success is his.”

Competition begins with the Women’s Mountain Bike Cross Country on Friday, August 22 3:00pm (local Beijing time). On Saturday, August 23, the Men’s Mountain Bike XC takes place at 3:00pm. For real time coverage, or to check your local listing, visit www.nbcolympics.com.

Olympic athletes can use the included national flag decal sheet to further decorate their RockShox SID suspension fork, and represent their country.

SRAM athlete roster participating in the 2008 Men’s and Women’s Mountain Bike Cross Country events.

Fulcrum Product Range 2009

Racing Light XLR
Fulcrum Racing Light XLR wheels are the evolution of Racing Light carbon fibre low profile wheels. For the 2009 season Fulcrum introduces new hubs with oversize carbon fibre bodies and aluminium flanges to reduce the weight and increase the reactivity of the wheels. Taking advantage of the design of the new wheels, Fulcrum has also increased the flange diameter on the sprocket set side up to 78 mm to exalt the response characteristics of the Racing Light XLR when climbing and accelerating. The improvements to the hubs don’t stop here: smoothness has made an enormous leap forward with the new ceramic bearings with CULT technology developed by Fulcrum (see product table on page 7).

weiter…

Campy launches 11-speed groups

Campagnolo Super Record, Record and Chorus will receive the new 11-speed drivetrain. Centaur and Veloce remain 10-speed. The weights of the new groupsets: 2.145 grams for Chorus, 2.015 grams for Record and 1.964 grams for the Super Record. According to Campagnolo, every transmission component in the 11-speed groups was redesigned. This includes the Ergopower levers, front and rear derailleurs, chain, cassette and crankset. Campag’s engineers have improved the stiffness of the rear derailleur, with the aim of making more precise shifts.

weiter…

Shimano Dura Ace 7900 - 2009

All cyclist interested in their components have been waiting eagerly for new information about the Shimano lineup for 2009, after several prototypes have already been spotted in the pro peloton since the spring. Many rumors occured about the technical specifications and new features, but many were - obviously - especially interested in the new optics of the premium group from the guys based in Osaka.

Since several weeks we already had the answers to those questions up our sleeves, but were not allowed to show them. Now we can finally share the pictures, which were taken during an official product presentation some while ago, enjoy:

RD-7900 (Rear derailleur with carbon cage)

FC-7900 (standard crankset 53/39)

FC-7950 (compact crankset 50/34)

ST-7900 (STI lever)

BR-7900 (rearbrake)

The electronic Version 7970 will be presented in a couple of weeks. Further technical information and high resolution pictures of the several components will be published with the official press release. For sure, you will find it here on light-bikes.de .

Press Release from Shimano North America:
Shimano introduces the all new 7900 series Dura-Ace. The new mechanical Dura-Ace group loses over 135g while maintaining it’s legendary durability and improving performance and ergonomics.

Since 1973, Shimano’s Dura-Ace components have been at the forefront of pro racing and pro-level technology. Dura-Ace has continued its legacy of being proven in the peloton as well as serving as a launch pad for new technologies. Index shifting (SIS), integrated brake and shift levers (STI), and hollow forged cranks (Hollowtech II) have set Shimano’s Dura-Ace as the benchmark in road bike componentry.
FC-7900 Dura-Ace Crankset

The iconic Hollowtech II hollow forged crank has always been a benchmark for strength to weight performance characteristics and is the perfect platform for a crank intended to be used at the highest echelon of competition. Combined with a hollow outer chainring the crankset is 20% stiffer for optimal power transfer while still saving 15 grams. Other changes include redesigned chainring teeth for better contact and power transfer. Improved bottom bracket seals further reduce contamination and friction.

New for 2009, Shimano will also carry a Dura-Ace level compact crankset.


ST-7900 Dura-Ace Dual Control Levers


The new STI Dual Control levers offer a refined ergonomic shape while reducing the weight by over 40 grams. With a Shimano first, the new STI levers offer unidirectional carbon fiber lever blades which reduce weight and offer shift cables hidden under the handlebar tape for a more sleek design. Using a revised internal mechanism along with PTFE lined casing, the shifting is still as light as ever.

Shifting stroke for the rear derailleur has been reduced by 20% for quicker shifts and a built in reach adjuster allows for fine tuning the fit for riders with smaller hands.

The shifters continue to have integrated controls for the all new FlightDeck computer (SC-7900), which has been updated to include heart rate, altitude, grade, cadence, gear position, and directly downloadable data via a wireless connection. The new SC-7900 is completely wireless.

CN-7900 Dura-Ace Chain

The new asymmetric design of the Dura-Ace chain has redesigned plates that improve the contact interface with the cogs and reduce the chance for chain suck on the chainrings. Other improvements to the links provide greater durability and life with less noise and smoother function. The chain uses hollow pins and weight drops by over 18 grams even with the addition of a quick connection / removal link. A departure from the traditional Hyperglide connection pin, the SM-CN79 quicklink provides a reusable connection and removal point for the chain. The quicklink can be used on any Shimano 10-speed chain and the new chain can also be joined by a traditional Hyperglide 10-speed connection pin if necessary.
RD-7900 Dura-Ace Rear Derailleur

With a new carbon fiber rear pulley cage, the rear derailleur loses another 16 grams while maintaining durability and improving performance. The new design is compatible with wider range cogsets and can accommodate a maximum 28 tooth cog. The available wider range creates even better compatibility with compact cranksets.
FD-7900 Dura-Ace Front Derailleur


The new Dura-Ace front derailleur cage eliminates the need to manually trim the front shifting. Additionally, the redesigned, more efficient wide linkage and optimized spring tension combine for reduced shifting effort.
BR-7900 Dura-Ace Brakes
Increased linear response, improved braking power, and reduced weight all make their way into the latest version of the Dura-Ace brakes. A new brake pad compound doubles wet condition performance, while also improving dry power by 20%. Enhanced linear response comes from a redesigned caliper arch while a lower profile cable stop creates better lines for the cables and reduces cable friction. While other brakes ditch sensible features like a spring tension adjuster or adjustable toe, the new Dura-Ace brakes still come equipped with those features and manage to drop nearly 30 grams per pair.
FH-7900 / HB-7900 Dura-Ace Freehub and Front Hub


Both the hub and freehub body have evolved to designs that improve rigidity for efficient power transfer and quick handling. The bearings have been updated with a new tool-free bearing adjuster for quick bearing adjustments. The freehub continues with the durable titanium shell and quick engagement internals.
CS-7900 Dura-Ace Cassette

Shifting has been even further improved by creating an even more rigid (and lighter) aluminum carrier unit along with re-engineered teeth profile. Cassette design is lighter as Shimano has developed a super lightweight and rigid aluminum cassette sprocket carrier. The largest four cogs are titanium and weight is reduced by 10 grams. Available combinations will be: 11-21T, 11-23T, 11-25T, 11-27T, 11-28T, 12-23T, 12-25T, 12-27T.

True to tradition, Dura-Ace 7900 combines new technologies with features relevant to the highest levels of competition.
Available Fall 2008



Interchangeability: DURA ACE (7800 series) and new DURA-ACE (7900 series).

Press Release from Shimano Europe:
New DURA-ACE: “Evolution of Perfection”

Shimano is introducing the new DURA-ACE 7900 series that sets a new benchmark in top-level road racing components. Shimano has combined all of its engineering resources with the latest technology to realize an increased level of perfection that will benefit professional riders as well as road racing enthusiasts. Besides offering a further improved performance and an attractive design, the weight is reduced significantly.

Crankset
The seventh generation DURA-ACE group introduces revolutionary technology into the road racing scene. Highlight is the HOLLOWTECH II crankset that combines an attractive aerodynamic design with remarkable weight saving and completely new engineering features.
This high tech beauty is developed out of thin walled, hollow forged aluminum and features some novelties in road racing technology. The outer chainring for example is hollow which saves weight and makes it 20% stiffer at the same time for an optimal power transfer.

There is a wide choice of FC-7900 chainring combinations: 53/42T, 52-39T, 53/39T, 54/42T, 55/42T and 56/44T. Crank arm lengths: 165 – 180mm with 2,5mm steps. Also a DURA-ACE compact crankset FC-7950 is available with a 50/34T chainring combination. The chainring teeth have been redesigned for an improved chain contact to improve power transfer. Furthermore, the bottom bracket features improved sealing for smoother rotation and longer durability.

This crankset weighs 725 grams including bottom bracket. This is 15 grams lighter than the current DURA-ACE crankset FC-7800. Rigidity remains the same.

Dual Control Levers
The new Dual Control Levers show the importance of state-of-the-art technology with regard to performance enhancing design. The lever blades are made of multiple carbon layers, finished with a unidirectional carbon fiber top layer with a special coating. This advanced technology ensures the best performance in terms of rigidity, durability and lightweight design.
Shift cables are hidden under the handlebar tape without sacrificing performance. This was made possible by the development of a new internal mechanism in combination with new PTFE coated inner cables.
The Dual Control Levers have a reach adjustment mechanism that will better accommodate smaller hands and a wider assortment of bar bends. Furthermore, the shift lever has a 20% shorter stroke for faster shifting. The hoods have an ergonomic design for increased comfort, even at long distance rides.

The shifters feature integrated buttons on top of the hoods to operate the new wireless FLIGHTDECK computer without the need to take the hands of the handlebar. FLIGHTDECK measures data such as heart rate, altitude, inclination, cadence, gear position and more. It works with coded wireless signals that prevent interference from other electronic units. The new FLIGHTDECK computer can be used to make a wireless connection with a PC to analyse riding data (software is included). The Dual Control Levers are over 40 grams lighter than the current version at 378 grams per pair.
Besides Dual Control Levers, also new bar end shifters and down tube shifters will be available to match the new DURA-ACE. A carbon brake lever BL-TT79 for aero handlebars will be available for time trial and triathlon usage.

Chain
The new DURA-ACE chain CN-7900 carries a lot of innovative technology. It has an asymmetric design and features redesigned outer plates to reduce the chance of chain suck. Also the inner plates have been redesigned for an improved contact with the cassette sprockets. The result is smoother shifting even under high load, for example when climbing or sprinting. Furthermore the chain runs smoother and is more silent than its predecessors and the new design allows a higher durability as well.
CN-7900 can be mounted with a reusable quicklink SM-CN79 that can be (dis)connected without using any tools. This quicklink is compatible with the other Shimano 10-speed chains as well. Also a normal connecting pin can be used. The chain has been developed with hollow pins and perforated inner plates to make it lighter. Weight of this chain is 252 grams, which is almost 30 grams lighter than the current version.

Derailleurs
The rear derailleur has a wide gear ratio and can be used with sprockets of maximum 28 teeth. It is compatible with the use of a compact crankset without the need for a medium cage derailleur. It has a full carbon pulley plate and a carbon/resin composite P-body that helps to reduce the weight to 166 grams.

The front derailleur has a lightweight design and an optimum spring tension for feather light downshifting. Trimming the outer chainring is no longer needed to allow a better concentration on the ride. The efficiency has been improved by using a stiffer and solid wide link design. Weight is only 67 grams.

Brakes
The brakes feature new compound brake shoes that doubles the brake performance in wet circumstances and improves stopping power in dry weather by 20%. These new brake shoes feature a longer durability as well.
The brakes have been developed with an enhanced brake arch proportion for an increased linear response. A lower cable stopper ensures a better cable routing and reduced cable friction. The Dual-Pivot caliper brakes feature also a spring tension adjuster and adjustable toe-in brake shoes The dual pivot bolt and center bolt as well as the inner cable fixing bolts are made of titanium for an optimised lightweight design of 293 grams per set.

Cassette/Hub/Freehub
Shimano has developed a super lightweight yet very rigid aluminum cassette sprocket carrier. Also the separate sprockets have been redesigned for more robust shifting performance and to save weight. This 10-speed HYPERGLIDE cassette will be available in a wider variation of combinations: 11-21T, 11-23T, 11-25T, 11-27T, 11-28T, 12-23T, 12-25T, 12-27T. The four biggest sprockets are made of titanium. Weight is 163 grams (11-23T).

The hub and freehub have an increased rigidity that improves rotation even when the quick release is tightened strongly. Furthermore, they have been developed with a completely new bearing adjustment system that enables easy manual adjustment without the use of a cone wrench.

This DURA-ACE group is the ultimate combination of state-of-the-art technology, lightweight design and innovative appearance. It sets a new standard in road racing technology, in which details are nowadays more important than ever. More info at http://www.dura-ace.com

Availability in the market: October 2008.

Truvativ´s new MTB handlebars

SRAM Corporation today announced a new line-up of Truvativ MTB handlebars that benefits Cross Country, All-Mountain, Freeride, and Downhill riders.

The naming strategy of the expanded line-up will look familiar. The names were chosen to provide a streamline look and feel on the bike with other SRAM components. The Noir and Stylo model names originated from Truvativ’s cranks; the World Cup, Team, and Race series modifiers are borrowed from the RockShox brand. Riders asked for them and Truvativ has delivered. Weight maniacs will love the superlight Noir WorldCup Flat Bar weighing only 120 grams. Passionate freeriders and downhillers will enjoy the super-wide BooBar. Cross Country and All-Mountain riders will appreciate the new range of Noir and Stylo handlebars in flat and riser options. Accurate adjustability was also taken into account. Users will find new, on-the-bar markings to guide them on the angle and centering of the bars, as well as customizing the length. In addition, all flatbars are bar end compatible.

NEW for Cross Country/All-Mountain: Noir and Stylo
The carbon Noir bar series matches the sleek look and feel of the Truvativ Noir cranks. The Noir bars are made from High Modulus Carbon Fiber material and features a Natural Carbon (unidirectional) finish, giving them a raw but elegant look. The aluminum Stylo bars were inspired by road race handlebars. The result is a complete MTB bar series designed from the ground up to look and feel fast, including matching racing stripes on each end. The top model, the 235g Stylo World Cup, offers the perfect balance of weight and strength. The Tungsten grey color matches the Truvativ chainrings.The 700mm Stylo World Cup SS Flat bar is the most extreme Stylo, offering Singlespeed and Cross Country riders more control.

A Look into the Future: Stems
The 170g all-mountain AKA stem offers stiffness and strength in a lightweight package. With a 5° angle and a flip-flop design, the AKA offers the rider varied set-up options. And finally, for 2009, the popular Holzfeller and Hussefelt stems and pedals are offered in new colors: Sno White, Purpletrator Purple, and Galvanized Silver. In 2010, Truvativ’s stem line will continue to be expanded, so stay tuned!

Zipp unveils new drop bars

Zipp Speed Weaponry is releasing all new drop bars to meet the needs of the most demanding racers on earth. Building on its’ 20-year pedigree in carbon layup and design, Zipp has created some of the lightest, strongest and stiffest bars on earth in the SL, the SLC2 and the Contour SL. Completely redesigned graphics aren’t the only thing that set these bars apart. Zipp’s drop bars exceed the highest standards in strength and stiffness, passing EFBe testing with flying colors while setting new standards in comfort and ergonomics.

SL – Super Light. Super Stiff.
The all new SL is the lightest and stiffest handlebar to pass the EFBe Laboratory’s top performance racing standard. No more wet-noodle flex in your lightweight bar. Weight: 165 grams. Drops: EB (ergo bend) (90 reach, 150 drop); TB (traditional bend) (87.5 reach, 130 drop), SS (short shallow) (84.5 reach, 128 drop).

SLC2 – The Do Everything Bar.
Massively stiff and capable of handling serious torque, 60% of this bar has a 31.8 diameter. It’s the perfect bar for massive sprinters or mounting VukaClips. Weight: 185 grams. Drops: EB (90 reach, 150 drop); TB (87.5 reach, 130 drop), SS (84.5 reach, 128 drop).

Contour SL – The Stage Racer’s Bar.
Comfort, ergonomics, stiffness and aerodynamics rolled into one. The airfoil top is not just aerodynamic but it also makes it the most comfortable bar Zipp has ever designed. Weight: 185 grams. Drops: TB (87.5 reach, 130 drop), SS (84.5 reach, 128 drop).

All bars are available in 40, 42, 44, or 46 cm (o-o); 31.8 clamp diameter

RockShox rolls out all new Reba

The popular RockShox Reba suspension fork is new and improved. First, Reba rolls out an entirely new chassis. As seen on several other RockShox forks, Reba now features Power Bulges that add stiffness, durability, and consistency to the chassis. The magnesium lowers now utilize a post disc brake mount. The hollow crown is forged of a proprietary AL66 TV material, providing light weight with increased stiffness and strength. Upper tubes are constructed from 32mm, 7000 series straight wall aluminum tubes and then completed with a low friction anodized finish.
All Reba models are available for both 26” and 29” wheels. Both wheel sizes will also offer either a standard QR, or the all new Maxle Lite option based on the existing 20×110mm thru axle standard. With available travel from 80 to 120mm, Reba provides both wheel sizes with the options they need for XC and Trail riding.
All Reba models receive a brand new damper. Reba SL and Reba Race get a fresh new Motion Control, while Reba Team is upgraded to a BlackBox Motion Control damper. The new BlackBox Motion Control damper is built upon the foundation of the original Motion Control. It features a titanium spring tube as well as Dual Flow compression and rebound. External adjustments are detented. Crown adjust forks utilize a carbon fiber compression knob, while forks using a remote have a new ‘Nip-Tuck’ spool that hides excess cable for a cleaner look. All Reba forks will feature a significantly revamped Dual Air system. Improvements are focused on further reducing friction, while providing a more linear spring rate. Dual Air gives riders the ability to independently adjustable positive and negative air spring chambers. The result is a very light and highly tunable spring system.

What’s New?
• All new chassis for 26” and 29”
• Standard QR or new Maxle Lite 20×110mm thru axle option
• Power Bulges
• New Motion Control in SL and Race
• New BlackBox Motion Control in Team
• New Dual Air system
• Post disc brake mount
• Travel increased to 120mm
• Hollow crown in all models
• Detented controls on Team

Suggested Retail Price (USD)
• Reba SL 26” $475
• Reba SL 29er $504
• Reba Race 26” $509
• Reba Race 29er w/Pushloc $607
• Reba Team 26” $656
• Reba Team 26” w/Maxle Lite & Pushloc $741
• Reba Team 29er $686
• Reba Team 29er w/Maxle Lite $701

SRAM lineup for 2009

While everyone is trying to reveal the new offerings from Shimano and Campagnolo for 2009, SRAM decided to already unveil the product updates for next year during the Sea Otter Classics.

Let us start with the high-end group, the SRAM red. Many athletes in the pro-peloton complained about the group’s crankset performance and we saw many DuraAce cranks labeled with SRAM stickers, on Astana bikes especially, or bikes equipped with Rival cranksets. Obviously there was some room for improvement and therefore SRAM will offer a completely redesigned crankset in 2009. It features the increasingly popular BB30 standard and is supposed to be lighter ( approx. 100 grams ) and stiffer, also having a lower Q-factor than the predecessor. Perhaps SRAM could already benefit from their recent acquisition of Zipp while developing this crank in BB30 standard, which is also used by the Vuma Quad. The second innovation comes with two new offerings on the PowerDome cassette, which will be available in a 11-25 (11,12,13,14,15,17,19,21,23,25) and 11-28 (11,12,13,14,15,17,19,22,25,28) gear ratio respectively. We are still missing a cassette, starting with a 12 tooth sprocket though, but apparently SRAM does not believe, that many recreational riders will buy their top offering.

Riders needing time trial equipment will be able to get their hands on several new items for 2009, too. New aero chainrings ( 55,54 and 42 tooth ) with an anodized finish are introduced, already spotted in the pro peloton during this season. The lineup is further widened by new shift and brake levers named 500 TT. Former weighting 154g a pair, the latter weighting 16g more per pair than the original one, while replacing the carbon lever with a red anodized aluminum one.

Meanwhile some of the features introduced last year exclusively for red will be handed down to the force group for 2009. One feature incorporated is the full reach adjustment for both brake and shift levers. Also the Zero-loss technology for the front derailleur, offering a faster and smoother front shifting is new to Force. The shifters will feature a longer brake lever and an extended and widened shift paddle additionally. One last fact worth mentioning is, that the shift and brake cables can now both be routed on either side of the handlebar.

The most dramatic changes however are related to the Rival groupset. Most parts now have a new polished, black anodized surface, the levers receiving a new carbon brake lever, reducing the weight by 20g to 320g overall. All other features which are new to the Force group, have also been implemented in the design of the Rival. Furthermore the aluminum crankset receives a complete redesign with hollow-forged crankarms, shaving off a mere 40 grams. 110 and 130 BCDs are offered and even though the official press release states crank lengths between 165 and 180 cm, we think mm should be already sufficient. Have a further look at some live product impressions for yourself with the following pictures or see the stuff in a small video.

Shimano with new wheelsets

New wheel set makes carbon clincher technology available for more people
Shimano introduces a new road racing clincher wheel set WH-RS80-C24-CL with an equal rim construction as the successful Dura-Ace WH-7850-C24-CL wheel set that was introduced last year. Both wheel sets feature an ultra thin and lightweight aluminum rim reinforced with carbon layers. The result is considerable weight saving and more comfortable ride characteristics. This new wheel set has been developed with an Ultegra level freehub that is compatible with 8, 9 and 10-speed cassettes. The wheels feature a wide flange hub design and an offset rim for increased rigidity and power transmission. The hubs have been developed using Shimano’s proven cup and cone bearings that are known for their great durability and adjustability. The rims have been provided with a rim wear indicator. Weight: 1521 g per set.
Availability in the market: July 2008


Tubeless
Shimano is introducing a new Dura-Ace tubeless wheelset that is more than 100 grams lighter than the current one due to the use of an ultra thin aluminum rim reinforced with carbon layers. Besides saving weight, this technology also ensures an incredible comfortable ride. This wheelset WH-7850-C24-TL has been developed with a titanium freehub body with quick engagement mechanism. It has a wide flange hub and an offset rim to increase rigidity. Weight will be 1400g for a set. Shimano introduces this tubeless technology also at a medium range level. WH-RS60-C24-TL is a tubeless wheel set that features the same rim as the Dura-Ace version but with an Ultegra level hub and freehub that is compatible with 8, 9 and 10-speed cassettes. The hubs have been developed using Shimano’s proven cup and cone bearings that are known for their great durability and adjustability. Weight: 1590 g per set. Both tubeless wheel sets feature a wide flange hub design and offset rim for increased rigidity and power transfer. All Shimano tubeless wheel sets can be used for normal clincher tires as well.
Availability in the market: July 2008

50mm Carbon Clincher
Shimano is also introducing a 50 mm high profile carbon-aluminum composite clincher Dura-Ace wheelset WH-7850-C50-CL. It combines Pro Tour performance with the convenience of clincher tires. It has a titanium freehub body with quick engagement mechanism plus a wide flange hub and offset rim for increased rigidity. It has been developed with Shimano’s cup and cone bearings and the rim carries a rim wear indicator. Weight: 1700 g per set.
Availability in the market: Already available

AX-Lightness Orion SL

The brandnew AX-Lightness Orion SL Brake. The first pics now on Light-Bikes.

AX-Lightness Orion SL with Carbon-springs, BTP Brakepads and Aluminium-Bolts for Powercordz.

Orion SL without Brakepads:

The “normal” AX Orion:

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