Interbike 2016: Wolf Tooth, Osprey, Park Tool and More
Another year, another Interbike, another gallery. Here are a few more new items from the show!
Pearl Izumi
Originally launched in 2013, Pearl Izumi's clipless X-Project shoe has just received an overhaul. X-Project is all about providing a stiff platform for pedaling that can still hike. To that end, the sole uses a three-quarter length carbon shank that stops before the heel and toe, allowing those parts of the shoe to flex. The heel uses an EVA foam layer for off-the-bike cushion, and the upper is seamless internally to make for a uniform and comfortable fit.
While shoes using hard and slippery thermoplastic polyurethane lugs are mostly a thing of the past, the X-Project shoes make use of the material for reduced weight, and the lugs are capped with co-molded rubber for increased traction. The positioning of the Boa dials on the tongue means that they won't fall victim to a rock strike. Two levels of X-Project shoes are available. Both feature the same sole, but the uppers are different. The $350 Pro model gets two Boas while the $275 Elite version uses a Velcro strap in place of the second.
Fox Head
Fox's Ranger helmet is a new no-frills option. It doesn't drop down quite as far in the back as most new trail helmets, and the visor isn't adjustable, but for $55 none of that matters.
Osprey
Osprey has partnered with Hydrapak for a redesign of its reservoirs, and now offers two versions. Both use a slide-seal closure, which removes the cross-threading issue that resulted from user error with Osprey's previous reservoirs. A small lip that Osprey calls the 'Pour Shield' can unfold from the opening to make it easier to fill the reservoir at an angle. The hose can route to either side, and has a decoupler to allow it to be disconnected at the top of the reservoir. The heavier Hydraulics version has a back plate that helps it maintain its shape when emptying, and allows for easier insertion into packed bags. The lighter L2 version has internal baffles to help it maintain its shape.
Wolf Tooth
Wolf Tooth knows that the vast majority of stock dropper post levers are junk. Its new ReMote lever is intended to work with any cable-actuated post, and pivots on a cartridge bearing for smooth action. A cable pinch bolt at the lever means that it can work with posts that put the cable head at the lever–the head just needs to be snipped off. The lever retails for $60-$70 depending on mounting style: it's available with a standard clamp, or with hardware for SRAM Matchmaker, Shimano IS-II or IS-AB.
Park Tool
Chain cleaners have historically been one of the cheapest-feeling tools money can buy, made with flimsy plastic that often cracks on the first drop. Park is upping the ante with a die-cast aluminum cleaner. The brushes and the bracket that the chain runs through are built into a replaceable cartridge, which Park will sell independently. Pricing TBA.
G-Form
While most protection brands are going in the minimalist direction, G-Form's new Elite line of elbow and knee pads does the opposite, with larger coverage zones and thicker padding. The non-padded panel of the sleeve is made of mesh for breathability. Both the knees ($100) and the elbows ($90) are certified to the 1621 moto standard.
More from Interbike:
Interbike 2016: Industry Nine, 100%, Yakima, RockyMounts
