Key Takeaways:
– Chinese brand EXS exhibits a unique fork that enables total internal cable and hose routing in bikes.
– Primarily aimed at bikes with partial internal cable routing, the fork can contribute to neater looks and possible aerodynamic benefits.
– The brand showcases a range of detailed, lightweight products including titanium axles, rear hub, and stems at Rouleur Live.
EXS Tackles Internal Cabling with Upgraded Fork
The lesser-known Chinese brand, EXS, is carving a unique spot in the UK market. The company made its presence felt at Rouleur Live, with its representative introducing an innovative fork. This fork shown promises to enable complete internal route of cables and hoses on round-tubed bikes, such as a Specialized Aethos.
Bringing Neat, All-Internal Setup Closer
This fork upgrade caters particularly to bikes already having some degree of internal cable routing. Although the Aethos is routed internally from the head tube, the cables run externally from there to the bars. Bikers inclined for a fully external setup will have to venture into hands-on modifications, potentially risking their warranties.
The EXS fork comes with a large channel down its front. This channel enables routing of a front hydraulic brake hose, primarily. Although getting comprehensive visuals was challenging, the promising system is designed to work in conjunction with a corresponding stem.
Minimalist Yet Effective Design
To maintain a low clutter design, an upper bearing, a bearing cover, and multiple spacers are included in the fork’s package. The fork’s effectiveness is highly commendable. The setup is so convincingly integrated that an SL7 managed to pass off as an SL8 with an attractive paint job.
A More Modern Look for Classic Models
This new fork could potentially modernize several famous bikes like the SL7 or the Aethos. Additionally, the setup could improve aerodynamics or lend a modern makeover to classics like the Cannondale SuperSix Evo HiMod.
EXS’s Light and Versatile Gear Showcase
The fork was not the only attractive offering from EXS’s display at the event. Numerous lightweight gear pieces, like an intricately anodized rear hub usually hidden from view, were showcased. This included a full titanium 12-speed cassette, seat posts, and a 3D printed titanium bottle cage. Also eye-catching was a significantly light one-piece stem cap and stem bolt combo.
A lot of ground is yet to be covered before lightweight gear takes the forefront over aerodynamics. But EXS seems committed to pushing that trend forward. The brand’s display represents an interesting wave of innovation and variation, offering yet more options and upgrades for the discerning cyclist.
A Milestone for the Lesser-Known EXS
The brand’s assertive showcase at Rouleur Live marks a crucial point in its market presence. The ambitious team at EXS is pushing the envelope to offer technologically complex and meticulous products, making waves in the world of cycling gear.
This innovative display from EXS could be a game-changer for many bike models and cycling enthusiasts. The possibility of achieving a completely internal hose and cabling setup without needing drastic modifications could be the next big thing for streamlined bike design.
Cycling enthusiasts and connoisseurs keen on optimization of their gear can look forward to more impressive and dynamic offerings from this relatively new, yet promising brand in the world of cycling.