On Show: Interbike 2009 Part 6

Easton says its new EC90 TT carbon tubular road wheelset is not only its fastest yet, but supposedly can even go toe-to-toe (and then some) with Zipp's venerable 808. The carbon rims measure an aggressive 90mm in depth while the special R4 TT front hub features both extra-narrow spoke flanges to reduce frontal area as well as aero-profile end caps to further cut drag.

Just sixteen Sapim bladed stainless steel spokes are used out back, while the front makes-do with only twelve. Variable Nipple Bed internal geometry adds carbon material around each nipple for increased wheel durability, too, while removing layers from in between the spokes where they're not needed.

Total wheel weight is an impressive 1,424g for the pair, while pricing is also a surprisingly reasonable (relatively speaking) US$1,900.

Easton will also add new EC90 SL carbon road tubular and all-carbon clincher models to its lineup for 2010. The tubular features a versatile 36mm-deep profile and Easton's R4 SL hubs with ceramic bearings for a feathery 1,250g package that should be suitable for a wide variety of conditions. Suggested retail for the pair is US$1,799.99.

The new 36mm-deep clincher version moves up the weight scale a tad to 1,465g for the pair but feature an all-new ThermaTec brake track that Easton claims is far better at dissipating heat than conventional treatments on long descents while also providing better braking modulation. As such, Easton says tire blow-offs and brake pulsing will both be things of the past and brake feel is more like an aluminum rim.

Off road, Easton fills the void between its XC One and Havoc models with a new all-mountain oriented Haven that uses a 26mm-wide aluminum rim for better casing support on tires up to 2.5" wide. Unique eyelets accept special double-threaded spoke nipples, too, that also allow Easton to keep a solid outer rim wall for easy UST tubeless compatibility.

The machined alloy hubs use straight-pull spokes front and rear and the front hub is also convertible between 9mm quick release and 15mm thru-axle standards. Claimed weight for the pair is just 1,650g in the 26" version and 1,785g for the available 29er. Suggested retail price is US$849.99 for the set.

In non-wheel news, Easton has also updated its Attack TT integrated carbon aero bar for 2010 with a new collet system for the extensions and several bars and stems will now be offered in a new white finish. In addition, the lightweight EC90 SL carbon road fork will be offered in a tapered 1 1/8"-to-1 1/2" configuration for use on many newer frames.

Sidi celebrates its 50th anniversary with some new shoes for 2010

Sidi celebrates its 50th anniversary in the best way possible – with new shoe models, plus: an awesome new color for 2010.

On the road, the top-end Ergo 2 and Genius 6.6 get brand new Carbon Lite sole plates, built using a longitudinally corrugated sandwich of a new Aeronet Lite material and carbon fiber. Sidi says the new plates cut 50g of weight per pair as compared to the old carbon outsole while still retaining a bit of tuned flex in the toe for all-day comfort. As before, the new plates will be three-hole compatible and will include a fourth hole for Look's handy memory tab.

The updated Genius 6.6 Carbon Lite and carryover Dragon 2 Carbon will also signal the arrival of a bold new white and blue Vernice finish.

Cross-country and cyclo-cross riders might be particularly interested in the all-new Spider SRS. The new shoe borrows the nylon outsole of last year's Dominator 5 for easier run-ups, but adds Sidi's Sole Replacement System to extend the usable life of the shoe. Since the lugs are replaceable, a softer compound is used relative to non-SRS models for better grip off the bike.

Up top, the Spider SRS will use the familiar ratcheting adjustable main strap and twin High Security Velcro forefoot straps for a secure hold but the toe will also get additional rubber reinforcement to guard against impact and generally prevent wear. The Spider SRS will be available only in a black Vernice finish.
 

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