Wayne at Ashima is always working on something new and lightweight when it comes to disc brake rotors.
When we saw him at Eurobike, he had some very interesting dual layer designs that incorporated a unique bonding/mating design as well as some fan-cooled rotors for heavy duty applications. While the rapid prototype air cooled systems might still be in the back of his head, the new AiNEON two-piece rotor shown here all but replaces the dual layer carbon-steel-aluminum D-Matrix rotors.
Using an alloy carrier that, yes, uses just half of the standard 6 mounting bolts, he’s claiming a weight of just 72g for the 160, making it one of if not the lightest two-piece rotors on the market when it hits in April. A 180mm will follow at the end of May. Carriers will be available in Red, Blue, Black or Gold.
The stainless steel braking ring appears to have the same pattern as the minimalist design as the Ai2 rotors we’re testing, but Wayne says the higher heat conduction rates of the aluminum carrier improve heat management.
UPDATE: We just got word they are working on a 6-bolt version, too, due to customer demand. Pricing for the 160mm rotors will be US$ 68.00 with 3 titanium bolts and US$ 50.30 with 6 steel bolts.
Despite the bare bones look and weight, they’re claiming usage from XC to AM. Word is there’s a package on the water for us with these new guys, so we’ll put ’em to the test when we get them.
Interested in doing a little comparison? Some other recent lightweight rotors we’ve posted include the Absolute Black and Saris’ coverage of Scrub at NAHBS.
