On Wednesday, I went to an exhibition in Osaka. I visited Kawashima Cycle Supply in Sakai, Osaka, which is also the home turf of Shimano. They handle major brands for Circles as well, including Fizik, Challenge, and DT Swiss.
First up is the new saddle from Fizik, the VOLTA.
Until now, Fizik had based their saddle production on three guidelines: total length, width, and the shape of the top surface. This time, however, they focused on a fourth guideline: cross-sectional shape. This model represents Fizik's answer after analyzing various saddles from other companies that are considered masterpieces.
It is scheduled to be released with detachable Mobius carbon rails and Kium rails.
It’s a great shape. I’ve personally decided to buy one.
Next is the Versus series, which is the most popular in the Fizik lineup. A model called the Versus X has been added to this series.
The groove has been made deeper and wider. The cushioning has also been slightly increased, so it seems likely that more people will enjoy it.
And finally, handlebars and stems from Fizik are coming out too. The handlebars, in particular, will be available in three lineups—Snake, Chameleon, and Bull—based on the Spine Concept also used for their saddles. Since they have already been releasing seatposts, you can now complete your entire cockpit area with Fizik components.
As the cyclocross season is about to begin, Challenge is releasing a tubular model with a cotton casing called the Team Edition. Using cotton for the casing is an old manufacturing method by modern standards, but because cotton is so supple, the tire flexibly deforms and grips the ground firmly, as if floating, even as the course gets chewed up lap after lap on sandy beaches or muddy soil. There are three patterns: GRIFO, LIMUS, and the new CHICANE.
CHICANE is a new pattern featuring a low-profile diamond tread in the center and tall, LIMUS-inspired knobs on the sides, leaving the impression of being exceptionally versatile. In Japan, it seems like this could cover almost anything as long as the conditions aren't too severe.
By the way, speaking of cotton, we can't forget Dugast. We have various items coming in for the season, so I'll introduce those another time!
The Kansai Cyclocross prologue is at the end of this month. (Apparently, there is also a Nobeyama CX pre-race on the same day.)
Time to start getting ready!