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

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.

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).

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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.

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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!

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:

RockShox SID – the rebirth of blue

Global Media launch for new SID in Moab (USA) Roc Dazur (France) and Australia
10 years ago, the blue RockShox SID fork took over the colour domination from yellow Judy’s. Becoming the most successful fork ever, with countless world Championships and Olympic medals, it was time for RockShox to elevate the SID platform to a new performance level for the next decade: stiffer, longer travel, improved adjustability, lowest possible weight without performance sacrifi ces. On October 13th and 14th, journalists from around the globe fl ew in the USA to test ride the new RockShox SID. Mixed teams of journalists, SRAM staff and SRAM athletes competed in the 24 hour race of Moab (Utah, USA), enjoying fi rst hand RockShox SID experience.

The event was held on a challenging 24 km loop course in the Utah desert. A mixture of rough technical sections alongside deep sandy stretches proved the perfect testing track for the new SID. Along with 1,400 other racers and approximately 2,500 apectators, SRAM fielded four teams in the event. Each team was racing on bikes fully built using the new SID, SRAM X.0, RockShox Monarch, Avid Juicy Ultimate, and Truvativ Noir components.
To complete the amazing riding experience, SRAM’s 24 hour base camp provided full service: SRAM WorldCup truck for professional technical service, food and massage tents and a big fire place to keep everybody warm…
On the same weekend, at the famous Roc D’Azur event (France) and Australia, editors had the same chance to get fi rst test rides on SID. After 24 hours of racing it was hard for us to take the forks back from the editors’ bikes. You will see stories all around the globe in print and web. The best way to summarize this rebirth of blue are the statements editors left with us after the events: “Amazing fork!”, “Great experience!”, “SRAM team is on top of things, professional, different and fun!”, “I never ate so well in
my life” The production of the new SID fork will start in February 2008, so stay tuned.
Find all the news about the 2008 RockShox SID on www.superlightintegrateddesign.com

1998 RS SID


10 years of SID!

AX-Lightness Uranos handlebar

Still kind of fresh out of the press: the rumor has actually already been circulating for a while, however it is just now that we are finally able to disclose some info on AX-Lightness’ latest baby: their URANOS road handlebar.
The bar is going to come in widths of 400, 420, 440mm - eventually with a 460mm version to follow as well. As announced in AX’s SL series thread the bar will be available in two different versions: stock version and SL version which utilizes a different type of carbon and is optimized to the specific rider weight. The stock version is going to weight 125-130g, the SL version can go as low as 110g! At first glance the shape seems to resemble the one of Schmolke’s bars, however AX prides themselves in having been concentrating on having an anatomically as ideal position as possible. The top section of the bar has a drop of 5mm and comes with a slight inwards bend. Towards the ends of the drops the bar slightly turns to the outside.
Price (for the stock version) will be around 550-600Eur and thus in direct competition to Schmolke’s TLO bar, with AX’ SL series probably even topping these. The first produced SL bar they built came in at 111g for a 400mm width, which currently is the only width they build - other still to follow.

The bars are not available yet, but it is hoped for them to still hit the market before X-Mas. Prices as said 550-600Eur for the stock version and the SL one being “more expensive”.

Thanks to Nils for the Pics, taken at EICMA in Milano.

New Pics…

Extralite Ultrahub SX

New Fronthub for Roadbikes from Extralite: Extralite UltraHub SX

Weight: 49gr.

Material: special 7075TX.

Bearings: 2RS sealed cartdrige.

Micro-Tuner: quickest bearing preload system.

Finishing: “hart coat” sides, black anodized body.

Graphics: laser etched.

Option: Hybrid ceramic bearings.

Dimensions for wheel building: Avaiable drillings 16 - 18 - 20 - 24

Center to flange: int. 37mm

Spoke drilling diameter: 28mm

Spoke hole diameter: 2,5mm

Radial lacing is allowed on interal flange side and only with D/B spokes (central section equivalent to Ø 1.5mm).

Micro-tuner allows an easy and quick bearing preload adjustment, no-tools required!

Flanges recive our new special treatments (military standard) to handle radial lacing stress.

To minimize torsional static forces flanges self-align under spoke lacing tension.

As every Extralite products UltraHubs exceede UNI/DIN Safety standards. Safety tests simulate a very strong 90kg (200lb) rider output.

Price: 149€

3T Adds new Fork Range

3T announced that is has expanded its product range with an ultra performing fork range called “FUNDA”. The range is co-developed with premier experts on fork aerodynamics. “Combining this expertise with the New 3T’s in depth knowledge in carbon lay up for superior strength and lateral stiffness has resulted in a truly innovative solution”, comments René Wiertz, new CEO of the New 3T.

“Instead of regular fork’s blades, we designed a distinctly different (asymmetric) airfoil for the blade where it is near the rim, and a symmetric shape further down where it is not affected by the wheel. Together, it forms a package that will slingshot you to the front of the pack. The FUNDA range is another clear statement of the New 3T’s ambition to bring well engineered, and truly innovative products to market”, says René Wiertz.
The full carbon FUNDA fork range is available in the TEAM version, weighting 300 grams, and in the PRO version, weighting 360 grams. It comes in a wide range of rakes, so you can find the perfect fork for any steering geometry and bike type. The FUNDA range is available for shipping from February 2008 onwards.

source: BikeEurope

New RockShox SID for 2008

Complete Make-Over for Race Legend SID

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Shimano Dura-Ace carbon crankset

Shimano is introducing a carbon fiber Dura-Ace crankset FC-7800C with an aluminum core to realize a lightweight yet very rigid construction.

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