SPY PHOTOS OF 07XTR CRANK & FRONT DERAILLEUR
SPY PHOTOS OF 07XTR CRANK & FRONT DERAILLEUR
R. Cunningham
Today, Shimano unveiled the final timed debut of the 07 XTR ensemble. The crank set is hollow and welded-and-machined from aluminum like previous years. However, the outer faces of the crank set are machined and clear anodized to silver to prevent scratches and normal wear. The external clamps are eliminated by a new, press-in clamp interface at the left arm. The left arm has a thin adjustable nut that allows you to fine-tune the external bearings and bottom brackets.
The new chainrings are made of titanium. The middle one is a titanium shaft that is enclosed by a molded carbon fibre ring. This enables the chain to be lifted between the smaller and larger rings. Although it looks unusual, Shimano knows that this will make shifting easier.
The XTR front derailleur is the last to be released. It features a new frame clamp design which can be adapted for a wide variety of tube diameters. The X-profiled outer links are wider and stiffer. Additionally, the casting can be adapted for a top-pull or bottom-pull cable arrangement.
Shimano states that the XTR cranks, front changer and front changer will be available at select dealers this fall. For a glimpse at the 2007 XTR, you can watch the National Cup and World Cup races.
