Interbike 2016 – Full Speed Ahead and Vision

Welcome back to our Interbike 2016 coverage. We took a brief brake to take a look at what was happening on the big island. But now it’s time to get back to Vegas. Next up is FSA and Vision. Between the two we have a new electronic groupset, new(ish) powermeter, updates to the Metron wheel line, new hydration options, and even more. Lets dive in!

K-Force Electronic Groupset

It’s been one of the peloton’s worst kept secrets that FSA was working on an electronic groupset and just a few weeks before Interbike they officially introduced K-Force. We got a brief chance to ride it at the outdoor demo (on a stationary bike) and took a much closer look at the indoor show two days later.

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The system is semi-wireless. The derailleurs and battery are connected via wires. The levers themselves are wireless (and available in two sizes – standard and compact) and each take a 2032 battery. FSA tells us the battery for the derailleurs should last 4,000 kilometers between charges.

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On the front derailleur is a pair of lights that allow you to see battery health without an additional app or computer.

As of now, their are no triathlon or TT shifters available, but we will keep you updated as soon as we see them.

PowerBox Cranks

FSA has partnered with Power2Max on a new line of FSA powermeters. Previously, Power2Max had been using FSA cranks – now FSA will be selling FSA branded version.

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Power will be measured at the spider. FSA tells us the 30mm BB386EVO 7050 aluminum spindle can fit pretty much any frame currently on the market.

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One of the features we really like is the auto recalibration that happens every time the crank sits still for three seconds. There will be carbon ($1200) and alloy ($699) versions. Both are shipping now.

Vision Metron SL

We have previously spent time with Vision’s Metron line of wheels and came away impressed. For 2017 they have overhauled the lineup and created the Metron SL (Super Light).

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The SL wheels feature a new braking surface for improved performance. The hub is new with a larger flange and shorter spokes (for improved stiffness). The hub features the ability to adjust the preload.

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Hydration Products

Vision was showing off a new BTA hydration system.

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This vertically mounted system features a magnetically removable storage location at the back.

Vision is also getting into the high-grip cage game with their new TriMax High Grip Bottle Cage

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The Rest

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