Coming soon from K-Edge are time trial mounts for Garmin - and SRM - computers. The clever design passes over Garmin's standard quarter-turn mount for a sliding setup that works better in tight confines.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
The hardware of K-Edge's new Professional chain catcher is designed such that mechanics can check the tightness of front derailleurs without affecting the catcher position.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
The back of the K-Edge Professional chain catcher is milled out to save a bit of weight.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge's new Professional chain catcher requires 50 percent more force to move it out of position, plus it's easier to set and install than before.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge has been producing these number plate holders for teams for some time now and is still debating whether to bring them to production. If so, the final spec will be stainless steel, not aluminum.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
The K-Edge Dirt 3 Adjustable mountain bike chain catcher features a moveable backplate (via spacers) for perfect alignment.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge's Dirt 2 Adjustable mountain bike chain catcher is sized specifically for two-ring drivetrains. Spacers can be added for different chainlines, too.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge will soon release a time trial mount for SRM computers.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge opted to drop the height of the upcoming time trial mount for Garmin computers so that it was still sleek and out of the way but kept the buttons accessible.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge is currently working on a prototype chain catcher that incorporates a magnet for SRM power meters.(Image credit: Jonny Irick)
K-Edge has added a new upper-end version of its popular braze-on chain catcher for 2013. The new Professional model now attaches to its own concave washer with an extra bolt that not only makes it easier to adjust but also locks it in place with 50 percent more force, according to K-Edge.
Cleverly, the Professional model uses the front derailleur mounting bolt to help anchor its position but the bolt itself doesn't actually clamp on to the catcher. Instead, the catcher's thru-bore hole merely slides on over it, which allows mechanics to check bolt torques without affecting the catcher adjustment.
K-Edge has tweaked the Professional's shape relative to the original version for better chainring bolt clearance and it's also a shade lighter with more milling on the backside. Retail price will be US$39.99 when it launches January 1. The standard version will remain in the lineup but will drop in price to US$29.99.
K-Edge previewed a prototype Professional variant for use with SRM power meters, too. The production version is still being finalized but regardless of the finished appearance, the key feature is an integrated rare earth magnet that's adjustable for perfect positioning – and more importantly, doesn't require SRM users to glue a separate magnet on to their frames. Pricing is still to be determined.
While chain catchers put K-Edge on the map, the company's machined aluminum Garmin computer mounts have reportedly put its CNC mills into overdrive. Coming in 2013 are two new machined aluminum mounts – one for Garmin 200/500/800 computers and another for SRM's PowerControl – for use with aero bar extensions.
Both feature 22.2mm clamp diameters for near-universal compatibility but the Garmin version introduces a new attachment interface, too. According to K-Edge co-owner Joe Savola, the standard Garmin quarter-turn interface isn't always conducive to tightly spaced extensions so K-Edge's mount will feature a novel slide-on setup instead.
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Finally, K-Edge is still contemplating putting into production the tidy number plate holders we've been seeing on pro riders' bikes all season. The prototype shown at Interbike was made of aluminum but Savola says the production version – if there is one – will be stainless steel for better durability.
Like the new chain catcher, the new time trial mounts will be available January 1 but pricing is still to be determined.
K-Edge will soon release a TT mount for SRM head units
