Our conversation with 3T started when we published our tech article on using carbon handlebars for cyclocross. They replied that they had a ‘cross specific carbon handlebar coming out (shown after the break) and, oh by the way, a full carbon disc fork, too.
And here we are: An exclusive first look at the all-new 3T Cycling Luteus full carbon fiber disc brake cyclocross fork and Ergoterra carbon cyclocross handlebar.
Jump on past the break for all the details and photos (UPDATE: and pricing!)…
The Luteus Team fork is a dedicated ‘cross fork, purpose built to take advantage of the UCI’s relatively recent discovery of common sense. The construction is full carbon, including the steerer, with alloy faced dropouts for better durability on the surface that’s likely to see some abrasion.
Despite the schematic above, the only option listed with an actual part number for both Team (aftermarket) and OEM models has a tapered 1-1/8″ to 1-1/2″ steerer tube, but this hints at options down the road. The picture at the top of the post shows the taper.
The Luteus has post mount brake mounts and an integrated brake hose channel indented into the left leg. The channel even has integrated loops for zip tying the hose in place, giving it a clean appearance and keeping it somewhat out of harm’s way.
The left leg is reinforced at the mount posts to better handle braking stresses, and we’re guessing the forward facing dropouts are designed to reduce the likelihood that braking forces push the wheel out of them (not a likely scenario, but technically possible).
Wheel clearance is good. Running a 34C tire (UCI max is 33mm wide) there’s a minimum of 17mm of space between the tire and the crown at any point.
3T says the fork is designed to work with a 160mm rotor. Other measurements you’ll need are:
- Rake – 47mm
- Axle to Crown – 395mm
- Weight – 470g
It’ll be available in April 2011, price TBD is $595 USD.
The Ergoterra Team handlebar is a “dedicated, expert level carbon cyclocross handlebar” and is based on the Ergosum road bar, but designed specifically for cyclocross racing. It has the same compact reach and drop as the Ergosum, but is wider at the drops to give you more leverage over rough terrain (from above, it flares out, shown below).
The curve from the hoods to the drops remains at 90º from the uppers long enough to keep brake/shifter levers in line, then bends outward 6º to widen your grip in the drops by 30mm (3cm) total. This also provides more clearance for your forearms, which is good when you’re bouncing around over rough patches, which helps you stay in the drops longer to chase down that punk in front of you.
The bar has an extended oversized central clamp area that’s reinforced for mounting crosstop brake levers. It’s made strong, but is designed to provide some shock absorption, too. Available in March, here’s the other numbers:
- Drop – 127mm
- Reach – 89mm
- Widths (tops/drops) – 42/45 or 44/47cm
- Weight – 192g
Price will be $325 USD.
