CrankBrothers has just updated their line of pedals with some upgrades that should please cyclocrossers. The new Candy 7 and Candy 11 and Mallet E, Mallet 3, and Mallet 2 models inherit the bulk of the changes, while other Eggbeater, Candy and Mallet models are receiving only the internal changes.
The new updated CrankBrothers pedals gain new seals and bearings. As seen at 2015 Interbike. © Cyclocross Magazine
The first change that should please cyclocrossers is a new set of inboard double lip seals, aimed at keeping out the elements that might attempt to enter the pedal from crank-side axle opening. If you live in a muddy area and have power washer tendencies, these seals should help to better protect your bearings.
CrankBrothers has added double lip seals and a new Igus LL-glide bearing on the inboard side. As shown on an Eggbeater but first released on the Candy 7 and Candy 11. © Cyclocross Magazine
The company has also updated its bearings. Internally, CrankBrothers has a new custom Igus LL-glide bearing (technically a premium plastic bushing) right behind the new seals, while on the outboard side, CrankBrothers opted for an Enduro cartridge bearing. The company expects the new seals and bearings will extend the life and reduce the maintenance requirements for the bearings and pedal. All Eggbeater and Candy models receive these changes.
The new CrankBrothers pedals gain an Enduro cartridge bearing on the outboard side. As seen at 2015 Interbike. © Cyclocross Magazine
Externally, there are some subtle changes that should please the cyclocrosser. Most noticeably, the Candy 7 and Candy 11 gain the black traction pads on the side of the bails, which should both increase traction on remounts should you miss your clip-in. They’re also aimed to improve the shoe-pedal interface, with more contact surface area between the pedal and shoe (and should be replaceable).
The new updated CrankBrothers Candy 7 and Candy 11 pedals gain new seals, bearings, traction pads and pedal bodies. As seen at 2015 Interbike. © Cyclocross Magazine
More subtle changes include an increase in surface area in the pedal body, new ridges and ribs on the body for better traction when unclipped, and chamfered edges to reduce strikes on rocks, roots and off-camber surfaces.
The Candy 7, with a chromoly steel axle, will retail for $165 / €165, and weigh 320 grams with a 5-year warranty.
The Candy 11 gains a 6Al/4V titanium axle and wing material, and sheds 71g, with a weight of 249g, but also costs nearly $300 more at $450 / €450.
The new updated CrankBrothers Candy 11 pedals ga also inherit the same upgrades, with weigh-saving titanium wings and axle. © Cyclocross Magazine
Availability is expected to be November. Other models are expected to inherit most of these changes eventually. It’s telling that an Eggbeater model was displayed with the new axle seals and bearings.
Stay tuned as we put the new models to the test.
More info: crankbrothers.com
