One of the biggest benefits to domestic manufacturing? That would be quick turn around and the ability to adapt to new standards. Wolf Tooth Components is a perfect example as they continue to introduce new models of Drop-Stop chainrings based on consumer demand. The interesting thing about their latest offering which is compatible with Race Face Cinch cranksets, is that Wolf Tooth initially felt like they shouldn’t make the rings since they knew they couldn’t compete with Race Face on price.
That didn’t stop a large number of customers from requesting the rings, followed by a large number of dealers voicing their opinion for the Cinch compatible rings at Interbike. Wolf Tooth finally made the decision to Cinch up some new rings after their own experiences with the Cinch cranksets were overwhelmingly positive. Thinking that the market for the Cinch cranks will continue to grow based on their value, weight, and versatility, Wolf Tooth is gearing up for a full selection of RF Cinch Direct Mount Chainrings…
Currently, WTC has only 30 and 32t rings in stock and ready to ship. They will be following up with a 34t ring shortly, which will expand to a full 26-36t range based on sales of the first offerings. Compared to the RF rings, the WTC DM Cinch rings have a 49mm chainline instead of 51mm.
Also, due to WTC’s patent pending asymmetric tooth profile which results in excellent chain retention even in heavy mud, the rings are not reversible. This is important to note for anyone thinking they could be used on 190mm fat bikes with the ring flipped. Currently, the RFC rings will be a great fit for 170mm fat bikes, but not ideal for 190mm since the chainline should be another 6-8mm outboard to function properly. WTC is hoping to hear from potential customers regarding 190mm fat bikes – like most of their products, if demand is there they’ll make it happen.
Selling for $78 a piece in black, the rings are compatible with 10 and 11 speed chains. Claimed weights are listed at 26t – 52g, 28t – 59g, 30t – 65g, 32t – 70g, 34t – 75g, and 36t – 81g.
