The lion's share of products at Interbike 2015 were related to the exploding market of gravel, including the release of fresh gravel models at Outdoor Demo and in our earlier roundup of the indoor models. However, plenty more companies offered some goodies on the component side of things that certainly received loads of attention, and revealed what demands consumers are making for cyclocross and gravel products.
While there were a few companies (who preferred to remain unnamed) that rolled their eyes at the 12mm thru axle standard, many of the axle and hub manufacturers we saw are more than willing to admit that the 12mm front thru axle for road disc and cyclocross forks is here to stay. We stopped by Paul Components and White Industries, who were both ready to dive in with offerings to accommodate the latest standard.
Industry Nine has also released end caps that can accommodate a 12mm front axle, but the big news from the North Carolina company was the thru axle multi-tool, with models including a 15mm front axle as well as a 412x12mm rear axle.
On the full group side of things, the biggest news was both the showing of the SRAM eTap (with our first ride impressions coming soon) alongside Rotor's new Uno hydraulic shifting/braking system. The hydraulic system was developed in collaboration with Magura.
We were able to run through the gears of Rotor's Uno hydraulic drivetrain, although we were not allowed to take the system for a spin. Rotor touts the benefits of hydraulic being ideal for cyclocross, since the hydraulic fluid will eliminate the need to replace cables and housing after every race.
Wondering about the brake options with the new Rotor Uno hydraulic levers? The Uno system will work with Magura's hydraulic rim brake and disc brake calipers, addressing the needs of road, gravel and cyclocross racers and riders. Check back soon for more on this system.
Finally, we were able to follow up with our Outdoor Demo power meter look at 4iiii's Precision power meter with the latest left-based crankarm power meter technology at Interbike. Pioneer gave us a first look at their latest power meter that will adorn the bikes of the Maxxis Shimano Cyclocross Team. One of the Parlee team bikes were on display with a compact gravel set up that included Pioneer's Dual-Leg Power Meter.
Stages Cycling also showed off the latest in upgraded cranks. The transmitters now have a smaller profile, and the company upgraded the battery door with a stronger interface. Stages Cycling also showed off the carbon fiber left crankarm, which will be available this Winter.
Use the slider below for further details and photos. More info: stagescycling.com, pioneerelectronics.com, rotorbike.com, paulcomp.com, industrynine.net, whiteind.com.
The bigger news for Paul Components was the unveiling of bike stems, which come in three different lengths but will only accommodate mountain bike handlebars. © Andrew Reimann / Cyclocross Magazine
