FSA adds a new set of 'cross brakes to its lineup just in time for the mudslinging to begin (and yes, they're supposedly available in stores right now). The new SL-K cantilevers sport a popular wide-profile architecture for extra mud clearance, triangulated aluminum arms, and single-bolt pad mounting (albeit with mountain bike-style cartridge holders, not road ones) for easy setup.
Adjustments are relatively plentiful on the new SL-K brake including independent spring tension and a built-in barrel adjuster on one arm to account for pad wear. The separate straddle carrier will allow for more fine-tuning than one-piece straddle assemblies, too.
Claimed weight for the new SL-K cantilever is a reasonable 180g per wheel.
FSA's SL-K line in general has also adopted a more cohesive look for 2010 with all included componentry now boasting a bigger and bolder graphics package. Carbon SL-K components also all share the same chopped carbon fiber cosmetic layer and the new SL-K stem will be offered in an optional sleek grey anodized finish we first spotted back at this year's Giro d'Italia.
Two-bolt SL-K seatposts also get FSA's 'Minimal Top Clamp' head, which uses two separate upper clamps instead of last year's bigger and heavier single unit. Two-bolt K-Force posts will also get the MTC treatment as well.
Crankset-wise, FSA continues to champion the BB30 system with thirteen different models now in the stable. Also coming for the 2010 season are the new 386 two-ring mountain bike cranks with FSA's new three-bolt 86mm BCD chainring standard, to be offered in both BB30 and MegaExo configurations.
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Chainrings have been updated as well with new spacings that allow FSA (and other 130mm and 110mm BCD) cranksets to work with Campagnolo's 11-speed drivetrains.
Pearl Izumi updates its footwear range for 2010
Pearl Izumi has focused on refining the fit of its re-energized footwear lineup for 2010.
Sitting at the top of the road range again this year is the ultralight Octane, weighing in a claimed 470g for a pair of 43s. The new Octane SL retains the original's carbon fiber plate and buckle-less three-strap layout but the straps are now more offset to lay more naturally across the top of the foot and there's now a loop of carbon fiber (the 'PowerBand') wrapping around the back of the heel for additional support.
The last volume has also been decreased – especially around the toe box – for a snugger fit and the vamp (that section of shoe ahead of the base of the tongue) has been shortened to better accommodate a wider range of foot widths. Also, cushy memory foam has been added to the tongue (last year's was essentially unpadded), the heel cup now sports dual-density foam for a tighter hold, and three different insoles will allow for a somewhat customized fit.
Riders who prefer a more conventional buckle-and-two-strap upper can instead look to the updated P.R.O. model. The main strap is now adjustable in length on both ends – via a novel hook-and-pin system on the inner side and a two-position buckle on the other – and a thick EVA pad cushions the top of the foot. Like on the Octane SL, the P.R.O. also gets a revised lower-volume fit, angled straps, dual-density heel cup, and the more supportive Power Band carbon heel counter. Claimed weight for a sz43 pair is 550g.
Off-road riders get their own Octane SL and P.R.O. versions, too, with all of the same updates as the road-going models but with the requisite lugged outsole. Riders seeking even more security when on foot, however, can instead opt for one of the X-Alp models, which essentially mate racing-oriented uppers to a hiking boot-like outsole for superior traction. A rigid, partial-length plate still affords efficient pedaling, too.
