Following the launch of the Mavic Notch clothing line (review coming soon), Mavic is continuing their support of Enduro riding with their first ever mountain bike Wheel Tire System along with a new clipless mountain shoe. Enduro racing is quickly growing in popularity with Mavic athletes like Chausson, Clementz, and Barel leading the way. Mavic says the new wheelset is specifically designed for Enduro – just what does that mean? It means the emphasis is placed going down hill as quick as possible, yet keeping things light enough to climb the un-timed sections. Because of this the front wheel needs to offer the conering grip, stability, and handling while the rear can be designed differently for responsiveness, lower rolling resistance, and traction.
The result is a Wheel Tire System (WTS) that not only has different tires front and back, but different rims as well. More on the wheels plus the new shoes after the break.
Offered in only 26 and 27.5, the Crossmax Enduro tires are front and rear specific. The aggressive Crossmax Charge 2.4 front tire is paired with a 21mm internal front rim for added volume and better stability while cornering. The rear Crossmax Roam is a narrower 2.3 tire that mates with a 19mm internal rim, and the tire has a lower center tread with ramped knobs to roll fast and accelerate quickly. Both tires are constructed from a 2-ply 66tpi Gaurd 2 casing for maximum durability, though the front tire is a single 40a durometer for maximum grip while the rear gets a dual compound design (62a center, 52a shoulders) for better durability. Apparently in testing Mavic’s athletes didn’t like the feel of a dual durometer front tire when transitioning between the two compounds in corners, so low rebound, tacky 40a rubber is used on the entire tread.
Like many Mavic wheels, the Crossmax Enduros are UST meaning there is no need for sealant if you choose not to run it. The airtight rim is accomplished through FORE drilling which uses a threaded nipple on each Zircral spoke that threads into the rim. Like everything else, spoking is different front and rear with 24 bladed straight pull spokes laced 2-cross on the front and 20 of the same spokes on the rear laced with Mavic’s Isopulse pattern – radial drive, and 2-cross non-drive. The front is laced for maximum lateral stiffness and radial comfort, while the rear is tuned for slightly less weight and more responsiveness. Both rims include Mavic’s ISM machining which eliminates unnecessary weight from each rim.
The hub system is compatible with just about every standard except DH sizes, including 15mm, 20mm and even QR in the front though you will need optional adapters for the QR. The rear is compatible with 12×135, 12×142 and standard QR, with both hubs offered with 6 bolt rotor mounts. Reigning in all the rider’s power is the ITS-4 freehub system which provides 7.5° of engagement.
US availability is planned for July with the entire WTS retailing for $1000. Replacement Crossmax Roam 2.4 front tires will be available for $80 and Crossmax Charge 2.3 rear tires will retail for $75.
Weights:
Wheels:
- 26″: 825g ft/ 835g rr, 1660g set
- 27.5″/650b: 850g ft/ 860g rr, 1710 set
Tires:
- 26″: front 2.4; 950g, rear 2.3; 850g
- 27.5″/650b: front 2.4; 990g, rear 2.3; 870g
Another first for Mavic, is the all new Enduro racing specific shoe – the Crossmax. Designed for gnarly terrain and long days in the saddle, the shoe balances performance with all day comfort and increased protection from baby heads reaching out to grab your feet. That, and probably protection if you happen to crash as well.
The Crossmax borrows the Ergo Lite ratchet from the Fury shoe as well as the quick lace system from the Alpine XL which is hidden under the lace keeper. The shoes feature a roomy fit with an Ortholite sock liner that combines with the Ergo tongue to maximize comfort and padding. The Trail Grip outsole of the shoe has a stiffened sole plate for power transfer with Contragrip tread for the times you need to push. Added protection is offered through the Ergo Lite toe cap and neoprene ankle cuff.
The CrossMax shoes weigh in at 460g for a size 8.5 UK, and are offered in 3.5-13 UK in whole and half sizes. The shoes will be available in the US in September for $189.95.
