Upping the count from their original 14/12 tooth pairs for other derailleurs, the new CeramicSpeed 14-tooth Eagle pulley wheels put equal numbers on both parts.
They say, compared to the 14/12 version, they say these offer a further 20% watts savings (34.4% total reduction compared to stock wheels), and it’s not just their words. They tested it with Specialized Racing athletes, switching back and forth between 12 and 14 tooth upper pulley wheels, but everyone preferred the larger setup.
“As already proven by the OSPW system on the road, larger diameter pulley wheels reduce friction by limiting the amount of rotation experienced by each chain link as it passes,” explains Brad Copeland, mechanic at Specialized Racing, via press release. “Combined with the precision machining and incredibly high quality bearings inside, the new 14/14-tooth Eagle pulleys are the final piece of drivetrain perfection to get the absolute most out of our mountain bike drivetrains. In addition, the machined alloy pulleys are stiffer and therefore enhance shifting feel and give a more precise and instant engagement than we have experienced with stock pulleys before.”
Available in black or gold, alloy or titanium, with two bearing options…
The outer wheels are aluminum alloy that’s designed to be low friction but long lasting. Both upper and lower wheels use a narrow-wide profile to aid in chain management. The lower stock wheel uses a narrow-wide design for retention, but the top is typically a standard tooth profile. CeramicSpeed says they used it on both because it led to crisper shifting. Unlike with their complete OWPS systems that come with an elongated cage, these are sold as just the wheels.
For $379, you get your choice of black or gold (the latter not available until October 2017) with hardened stainless steel bearing races. Upgrade to the coated version and you’ll get ceramic coated races that are 75% harder and less vulnerable to corrosion…for $489. Available now. There’ll also be a titanium version, price and availability TBD which will run $679 for the standard version and $765 for coated.
