AbsoluteBlack’s latest is a simple item -a steerer tube top cap- but is no less gorgeous than their machined single chainrings. SlamThatStem would be proud, what with the reverse depression making things look even lower. It’s machined from 7075 alloy and comes in at just 4g. The only caveat is that it won’t work with the spring-equipped expansion star nuts commonly used on carbon steerers. Or, at least it won’t work with the spring in place. That’s your call. Check the backside and pricing after the break.
About the rings: When their single cyclocross chainring first debuted, they recommended against using it with KMC chains. The issue was the oversized rollers used on that brand’s chains, which could cause clogging in muddy conditions. In a nice twist of fate, KMC contacted Marcin at AbsoluteBlack and worked on a solution. Samples with smaller rollers just arrived at AB’s HQ for testing, and if all goes well, should make their way onto all applicable KMC chains within a couple months. Likely that’ll improve their performance across the board, but also make current AB chainring owners happy, too. More on that as they run through testing.
Retail for the top cap is $20 US (€16.50 or £14.00). Available now, black only.
