Easton Cycling has just announced that they’re licensing Topolino’s composite technology for their bicycle wheels.
Shown above, Topolino’s wheels use a unique, continuous carbon/kevlar spoke that runs from rim to rim. The spokes run through the hub, rather than to it, so there’s no cutting or unnecessary interruption of the fibers. They say this makes a stiffer, lighter wheel. Topolino’s spokes have a carbon fiber central section surrounded by kevlar on the leading and trailing edges. This makes them strong and stiff, but with a durable exterior that also helps dampen road vibration.
Should be interesting to see what comes of this partnership. Full PR below…
PRESS RELEASE: Easton Cycling and Topolino Technology today announced a licensing agreement that will advance Easton Cycling wheels through the use of lighter and stiffer composite technology developed by Topolino. The long-term agreement benefits Easton as it continues to invest in its brand and the wheel category. In conjunction with this agreement, Topolino will discontinue their Carbon Core and True Black bicycle wheel lines. However, Topolino will continue to provide parts, service and support for its customers’ existing wheels while focusing on its new line of high?performance wheelchair wheels. The initial fruits of this agreement are expected to reach the marketplace next year.
“We are excited by the combination of Topolino Technology’s innovative designs and Easton’s materials leadership,” said Marty Mares, Business Unit Director for Easton Cycling. “This partnership will build on Easton’s momentum in the wheel category and deliver products that will improve cycling performance, whether for Pro Tour riders like Cadel Evans and the BMC Team or everyday cycling enthusiasts.”
Since the late 1980’s, Easton has led the bicycle industry in the engineering and development of composite materials. Today Easton engineers and product development team leverage in-house testing labs, company owned composite manufacturing facilities, wind tunnels World Champion cyclists in pursuit of best in class products.
“As the founder of Topolino, this agreement is an exciting next step. Easton Cycling has the marketing and manufacturing muscle of Easton-Bell Sports behind it, which will allow the company to reach a wider audienceand fully take advantage of this unique technology,” said Rafe Schlanger, Topolino Technology’s president.
Topolino Technology hand-?builds its composite wheels in the small town of Bethel, CT, as it has for over 10 years. Topolino’s signature composite spokes, both lighter and stiffer than traditional steel spokes, are also designed to provide superior vibration damping characteristics, resulting in a smoother ride, with more control.
