IB2011 - TRP

TRP introduces an update from their RRL Alloy called the RRL SR. The same basic features of their older lever (push button quick release is very nice) but saving a whooping 5 grams compared to the standard levels, but definitely has a "wow" factor look to it.

And the talk of show for cross season is the introduction of now allowing disc brake use on cyclocross bikes. So, one has to figure out a way to run standard road levers running standard cables and have them operate hydraulic lines.

Hence, the TRP Parabox which is run below your stem. Have to admit, from photo's I saw before the show, it looked a lot bulkier then what it really is. Weight is around 450 grams for the setup seen above which includes the hose's and the brakes. Caliper up front is slightly bigger then the rear caliper and the pistons inside the converter are also different sizes as well. Setup is intended to give some modulation to the braking instead of locking it up when you panic and grab the levers.

All in all, weight doesn't seem that bad just for this setup, but I not sold on this yet as to run the who setup requires rotors and a bigger hub in the back... And don't forget a spare wheelset too. 135 wheelsets with a road style rim are not that common, especially if you want to run something higher end. Guess if weight is not a concern, this is a good setup - but I won't be running it any time soon.

Ernesto out.

IB2011 - Pivot and BH

First ride of my 2011 Interbike adventure was the BH RX1 cross bike. Sporting a full carbon frame and a BB30 bottom bracket, the bike was quick, fast and very responsive. The bike felt solid and the geometry was dead on.

The bike was sporting the older glossy Ultegra 10 speed shifting group, with a 36/46 front ring and a 11x25 in the back with a FSA Gossamer crank. Personal preferences would have me switch the rear cassette to an 11x28 for a wider range when in the big 46 ring (the rear derailleur is long caged and can handle it) and maybe a slightly lower weight crank. Otherwise, I have a fondness of the glossy Ultegra as it is lightweight and I feel it shifts just as well as Dura Ace at a much lower price.

And don't forget the full carbon tapered fork up front, which helps to stiffen up the front end and to eliminate fork chatter under high speed braking. Tapered forks are just an absolute must on any high end cross frame anymore, and it's nice to see it on this bike.

Great riding bike, nice overall setup. Pull it out of the box, slap on some pedals and get ready for an hour of pain (or fun?) at your next cross race.

Next up - the new designed 429 from Pivot.



This new design saves about a half pound from last years model. (ya!)

And is also sporting a half inch tapered fork. (Stiffens up the front end - awesome!)

And, a 12mm through axle. (Stiffens up the bike side to side, especially when standing.)

And finally, the new Fox Adaptive Logic RP23 Kashima shock with custom tuned rebound and Propedal settings. This new configuration allows quick access to the full maximum Propedal setting while still being able to select the other settings based on the course or riding conditions.

Very excited to see these updates on the 429 and the changes are awesome updates to an already great frame. These changes will make my 2012 race bikes even better handling and more responsive then the previous model and will put my race bike weight at under 23 pounds.

Ernesto