Incolor Skypivot Carbon Crankset: Striking Balance of Weight and Performance

The Incolor Skypivot carbon crankset is a testament to cutting-edge design and meticulous engineering. Weighing a mere 320 grams (claimed by the manufacturer, but we measured ours at 335g in the 172.5mm size), this crankset offers a lightweight advantage without compromising on strength. Additionally, there’s a slightly heavier option at 350 grams with a 24mm Ti axle which is more suitable for Shimano bottom brackets.

Skypivot also provides different types of spider interface. The original spider interface is Easton type, they also offer Sram AXS and SRM type spider interface for different spider choices. There is lots power meter options for Easton interface, like Power2Max, Sigeyi and Xcadey.

One of the standout features of the Skypivot is its versatility in spindle options. It’s available with both a 28.99mm DUB-compatible aluminum spindle and a 24mm titanium spindle, allowing you to choose the setup that suits your preferences. The pedal mounting inserts are seamlessly integrated into the crank, enhancing the overall durability and integrity of the design.

With a size range from 165mm to 172.5mm, the Skypivot caters to a variety of riders, ensuring a comfortable fit. Crafted from T1000 and M40 high modulus carbon, this crankset is reinforced in all directions for optimum stiffness. The incorporation of new chainrings adds to its appeal, promising lighter weight and improved shifting performance. At a price of $380 USD, the Incolor Skypivot offers a compelling balance between cost and quality.

Cybrei Carbon Crankset: Uncompromising Rigidity and Strength

The Cybrei carbon crankset is a showcase of technological prowess, built to excel under demanding cycling conditions. At a mere 320g for the 170mm size, this crankset combines lightweight construction with superior rigidity. The second generation of dual-channel technology contributes to a 12% increase in crank rigidity, ensuring optimal power transfer.

A highly compatible 28.99mm axle further enhances the Cybrei’s adaptability, making it a suitable choice for a range of frames. The cold forged 7075 aluminum alloy axle core bolsters rigidity and durability, ensuring longevity under rigorous usage. It’s noteworthy that the Cybrei crankset has exceeded EU standards, passing both the 1800N 14w crank fatigue test and the 5600N crank damage test.

Cybrei also using a Easton type spider interface. Power2Max, Sigeyi and Xcadey all have compatible power meters to compatible with the Cybrei cranksets.

Available in sizes from 162.5mm to 175mm, the Cybrei caters to various rider preferences and needs. For those seeking additional weight savings, the option to pair it with Cybrei carbon chainrings is a significant advantage. The Cybrei carbon crankset is priced at $462 USD, reflecting its focus on uncompromising quality and performance.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Carbon Companion

Both the Incolor Skypivot and Cybrei carbon cranksets offer impressive features that cater to cyclists seeking top-tier performance. If weight optimization and a range of spindle options are your priorities, the Incolor Skypivot’s lightweight construction and versatile design could be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize rigidity and durability backed by rigorous testing, the Cybrei carbon crankset could be your go-to option.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal riding style, goals, and budget. Each crankset brings its own strengths to the table, ensuring that whether you choose the Incolor Skypivot or the Cybrei, you’re investing in a high-quality component that will elevate your cycling experience.

Wheels ( -340g )

The Roval Rapide 2 wheelset that comes with the bike is indeed a good option. It boasts speed, aerodynamics, and tubeless compatibility. However, for extended uphill climbs, it might prove a tad heavy.

To provide you with an improved climbing experience without compromising performance on flat terrains and descents, we’re excited to introduce the Craft Racing Wheels CS5060.

As you might gather from their name, these wheels feature a rim depth of 50mm in the front and 60mm in the rear, akin to the Rapide. What sets them apart is the inclusion of the 3rd generation carbon spokes, a feature absent in Roval wheels.

The CRW wheels are designed for tubeless compatibility, and the hubs come standard with a 36t star ratchet ring. These DT-style hubs are not only easy to service but can also be upgraded with a 54t ratchet ring if desired.

Still find 1290g too heavy? Here’s the good news: the CRW offers a shallower rim depth option of 40/45mm, weighing a mere 1180g. If your cycling adventures lead you to mountainous terrain, these wheels emerge as your best companions.

Crankset ( -110g )

Shimano has made significant strides in producing aluminum cranksets, yet it must be acknowledged that even their top-tier crank arms are slightly heavy when compared to the carbon cranks available in the market. This is why we’d like to introduce the Cybrei crankset to you – weighing a mere 580g and equipped with a spider-based power meter, offering approximately 110g of weight savings on the cranks.

Despite achieving substantial weight reduction, the Cybrei cranks do not compromise on performance in the slightest. These cranksets employ high modulus Toray carbon fiber and cold-forged AL7075 axles. Impressively, they have successfully passed a 1800N 140,000-cycle crank fatigue test, along with a 5600N crank damage test, exceeding EU standards by a significant margin. Additionally, they offer a 3-year warranty on all of their products.

In summary, the Cybrei Carbon Crankset stands as an excellent choice for riders seeking to enhance their bike’s performance while reducing weight. With its top-notch construction, elegant design, and versatile compatibility, this crankset is poised to captivate even the most discerning riders.

Cassette ( -23g )

When discussing drivetrain products, the Sixweel cassette stands out as a popular choice for individuals seeking the lightest components for every aspect of their bike. An 11-30t Sixweel cassette weighs a mere 199 grams, enabling you to save an additional 23g compared to a standard 11-30 Dura Ace 12-speed cassette.

Nonetheless, as per Sixweel’s specifications, their cassettes utilize stiffer materials than Shimano cassettes. This stiffness might result in suboptimal shifting performance on the 11t or 15t cogs when initially using their cassettes. We don’t strongly advocate replacing your cassette as an essential upgrade. It’s worth noting that Shimano still maintains the best shifting performance in their cassettes.

Bartapes ( -55g )

The EXS Airtape stands out as potentially offering the best value for your money. Priced at just 20 USD, it has the potential to shave off around 55 grams when compared to the stock Supacaz bar tapes that come with the complete bike. Distinguishing itself from some other ultra-lightweight bar tapes, the EXS Airtape maintains a comfortable feel with its 3mm thickness. Why not consider giving it a try?

Saddle ( -100g )

While the S-Works Power saddle that comes with the complete bike already features carbon rails, its weight is still somewhat impacted by the substantial amount of padding aimed at enhancing comfort. However, if you’re looking to shed weight from a component that holds a prominent position in terms of the bike’s center of gravity, why not opt for a fully carbon saddle?

Allow us to introduce the MVMT saddle: crafted entirely from carbon, weighing a mere 59g. Its glossy 3k carbon finish bestows upon it a truly premium appearance.

Upgrading from the S-Works Power saddle to the MVMT saddle can yield a further weight reduction of 100 grams. Nevertheless, we recommend this primarily for weight-conscious riders, as individual comfort levels may vary due to differences in anatomy.

(Will available on Panda Podium soon)

Thru Axles ( -20g )

Ready to shed those last few grams from your bike? Great! Take a look at the OVERFAST ultra-light carbon fiber thru axles. With just 33 grams per pair in accordance with Specialized specifications, you could potentially save around 20 grams compared to the original thru axles.

The OVERFAST thru axles feature Aluminum threads on their axles and boast a patented mechanical bond between carbon and alloy. Safety is not compromised; even without adhesive, our thru-axles exhibit a tensile strength of 500kgf. When adhesive is applied, the overall tensile strength of the thru axle increases to over 900kgf.

Conclusion ( -648g )

With all these parts added up, you can save about 648 grams on your bike, which will be able to get the bike under 6 kilogram gate. Congratulations!

In the pursuit of optimizing your cycling experience, we’ve explored a range of components designed to elevate both performance and weight reduction. From wheels to cranksets, cassettes to saddles, each offering has been meticulously selected to cater to the desires of dedicated cyclists. The S-Works Tarmac SL8 – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 complete bike, already impressive in its own right, has been the canvas upon which we’ve introduced upgrades that cater to weight weenies and performance enthusiasts alike.

By delving into the realm of wheelsets, we introduced the Craft Racing Wheels CS5060 – a solution engineered for climbers, incorporating cutting-edge materials and design for a superior riding experience. Transitioning to drivetrain components, the Cybrei Carbon Crankset proved its mettle, delivering a compelling blend of weight savings and performance. And while the Sixweel cassette tantalizes with its lightweight allure, it’s prudent to consider potential shifting nuances.

Further enhancing the riding experience, the EXS Airtape caught our attention, offering a remarkable weight-to-value ratio with an element of comfort preserved. Lastly, the MVMT saddle beckons those in search of ultimate weight loss, yet with the caveat that individual comfort preferences may vary.

In the realm of thru axles, the OVERFAST ultra-light carbon fiber options open avenues for subtle yet significant weight reductions without compromising on safety.

In essence, this journey has been about finely balancing weight savings with performance gains, all while respecting the individual nuances of cycling comfort. These upgrades collectively contribute to an enhanced riding experience that’s not solely about numbers, but also the nuanced sensations that every cyclist values.

Reduced Weight

The most obvious advantage of lightweight bike components for hill climbing is that they reduce the overall weight of your bike. This reduction in weight makes it easier to accelerate and maintain your momentum, especially when going uphill. A lighter bike means less effort is required to move the bike forward, which translates to less energy expended by the rider. This energy savings can make a significant difference during long hill climbs, where every ounce of energy counts.

Improved Speed

When you have a lightweight bike, you can ride faster, especially when going uphill. A lighter bike means you can accelerate more quickly and maintain your speed with less effort. This advantage is especially critical during hill climbs, where every second counts. Lightweight bike components can help you improve your speed and performance, allowing you to reach the top of the hill faster.

Enhanced Handling

Lightweight bike components can also improve the handling of your bike. When you have a lighter bike, it’s easier to maneuver and control, especially during sharp turns or technical descents. This improved handling can give you an edge during hill climbs, where technical descents and tricky corners can slow you down. Lightweight components can help you maintain your momentum and control, giving you an advantage over other riders.

Increased Comfort

Another advantage of lightweight bike components is that they can increase your comfort during long rides. When you have a lighter bike, you don’t have to exert as much effort to move it forward, which can reduce the strain on your muscles and joints. This reduced strain can lead to increased comfort during long rides, especially during hill climbs.

Improved Durability

Finally, lightweight bike components can improve the durability of your bike. High-quality lightweight components are often made from materials that are more durable than heavier components, such as carbon fiber or titanium. These materials are strong, lightweight, and resistant to damage, making them ideal for high-performance bikes. The increased durability of lightweight components means you’ll have a bike that can withstand the rigors of hill climbing and other high-intensity activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lightweight bike components offer many advantages for hill climbing. They reduce weight, improve speed, enhance handling, increase comfort, and improve durability. Whether you’re a professional cyclist or a recreational rider, having a bike with lightweight components can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment of the sport. If you’re looking to improve your hill climbing abilities, consider investing in high-quality lightweight bike components.

If you’re an avid road cyclist seeking a top-tier handlebar upgrade, the EXS R180 could be just the thing you need. This handlebar is crafted from lightweight, durable carbon fiber, offering a blend of ergonomic design, comfort, and adaptability that can elevate your cycling experience. The EXS R180’s shallow drop, compact build, and short reach create a comfortable and effective riding position for various cycling styles, be it lengthy endurance rides or brisk sprints. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a casual rider, the EXS R180 road handlebar is a potential option to consider for your next upgrade. In this review, we’ll delve into the details of the EXS R180, examining its features, to help you determine if it’s the optimal handlebar choice for you.

Who are EXS?

EXS Cycling is an emerging bicycle brand hailing from Guangzhou, China. It was founded by a renowned Chinese bike fitter named Kirito Zhang. Unlike many Chinese brands, EXS Cycling is a company that prioritizes technology development, investing significant time and resources into research and testing, and providing technical support to peers. Towards the end of 2020, EXS Cycling commenced retailing its own range of high-end products.

Why Did They Choose Handlebars as Their First Product?

As a bike fitter, Zhang identified an issue wherein many riders were using handlebars that didn’t fit them well. Several complete bikes from Western brands typically come with handlebars that are 42cm or wider, making them too wide for Asian riders. Furthermore, with more and more teenage or female riders entering the sport, there are few brands producing handlebars that are 34 cm or 36 cm wide – which are the sizes that these riders truly require. Thus, Zhang opted to stand out and produce this much-needed product.

Geometry

The EXS R180 handlebar has a variety of widths available, starting from 34cm and going up to 42cm. It features a 70mm reach, which is one of the shortest options available among major brands. Additionally, this handlebar has a drop of 125mm, which is a neutral measurement that is well-suited for most riders.

Performance

Test Data From the EXS Lab

When compared to some of the major brands in the handlebar market, the EXS R180 boasts a significant advantage in stiffness. While the Pro Vibe carbon compact handlebar is stiffer than the R180, it is also much heavier. On the other hand, the Schmolker is lighter and stiffer than the R180, but its price is over twice that of the R180 handlebar. Therefore, to be fair, the EXS R180 offers excellent stiffness-to-weight performance, and its price is more affordable compared to the bigger brands.

Key Features

Shorter reach

Ergonomics and bike fit are complex topics, but the EXS R180 handlebar offers a shorter reach and minimal drop at the hood area (some brands can have up to a 10-degree drop). This design provides two advantages: you can use a longer stem, which can look better aesthetically, and you can decrease the number of spacers needed while maintaining the correct stack height. For riders who require a lower stack, EXS recommends using a large angle stem such as -12 or -17 degrees.

Di2 bar end junction compatible

The EXS R180 handlebar has a tiny little hole near the bar end, which means customers with di2 bar end junction can easily guide their di2 wire through that hole.

Asymmetrical shape

The EXS R180 handlebar features an asymmetrical shape design. The top of the drop position has been flattened, and the top of the bar has been shaped like a “D” for optimal comfort. Additionally, the transition from the bar top to the hood position has been smoothed out for a more comfortable ride.

2 different cable routing choice

The EXS R180 handlebar provides two different ways for cable routing. You can either route your cables in front of the handlebar or lead them through the bottom of the handlebar. Simply choose the option that feels most comfortable for you.

Warranty

The EXS R150 and R180 handlebars both comply with the international standard ISO4210 and have passed certification by the international third-party organization SGS. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity in inspection, verification, testing, and certification.

The impact resistance strength of the R180 and R150 handlebars is stronger than 3T, EASTON, ENVE, and other conventional product standards (32J).

EXS also offers a two-year warranty and a crash replacement policy. If you break your handlebar due to a crash, you can contact us to get a replacement. Please note that the handlebar must be tightened to the right torque (maximum 4.5Nm), and broken handlebars due to over tightening will not be eligible for a warranty replacement.

Conclusion

In summary, the EXS R180 handlebar is a meticulously crafted product that provides exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio, comfort, and personalized options. The handlebar’s unique shape, shorter reach, and seamless transition from bar top to hood position make it comfortable for a diverse range of riders. The range of widths available also ensures a suitable fit for Asian riders and those seeking narrower bars. The handlebar complies with global standards and has passed thorough examination by SGS, a reputable third-party organization. Additionally, the warranty and crash replacement policy provide riders with extra assurance. Overall, the EXS R180 handlebar is an outstanding option for anyone seeking a high-performing, comfortable, and customizable handlebar at an affordable price.