Syncros's cross-country and marathon component range will grow for 2011, with a new stem, rigid fork and saddle to go along with the previously available carbon bar and seatpost.
The new FL Carbon stem is a carbon-wrapped bit, though – not a true all-carbon unit – and while the unidirectional finish may lend some benefits to fatigue strength and perhaps stiffness, claimed weight actually climbs from 113g for the forged alloy version to 130g for the FL Carbon (70mm extension for both).
There's nothing remotely heavy about the new FL Carbon fork, however; its carbon steerer and crown assembly, dropouts and large-diameter round blades peg an impressive 530g showing at the scale.
Syncros will offer the FL Carbon fork for 29in wheels as well, adding 50g. Both versions will be available only for use with disc brakes. Widely spaced blades should easily accommodate high-volume tyres, to help make up for the lack of suspension.
Finally, there's the new FL Carbon saddle with similar features to the standard FL but with the addition of carbon fibre rails to bring the claimed weight down to just 180g. Syncros still fit the FL Carbon with a relatively generous layer of foam plus a pressure-relieving central depression for long-term comfort.
The new Syncros FL Carbon saddle features carbon rails and a claimed weight of 180g
Alloy components
Alloy FL bits haven't been ignored, either, though updates are mostly restricted to a limited edition polished gunmetal grey finish. Similarly, the harder-hitting FR range is unchanged but for the additional of a limited edition polished silver look.
Syncros's alloy bits will be available in gunmetal grey (FL) and polished (FR) limited editions
One interesting bit that's not even in the 2011 catalog is the upcoming FRIC (FR Intelligent Clamp) stem, aimed at longer-travel bikes that have a short bar reach. The puny-looking chunk of aluminium weighs less than 120g (actual weight) thanks to its intriguing steerer and bar clamp setup, and a notable lack of material through its centre section.
Judging by the FRIC stem's design, we're guessing it'll be important to tighten all of the bolts in the correct order for proper clamping of both the steerer and bar
Wheels
Wheel developments centre around the new disc-specific FL DS25 aluminium rim with its slightly more generous 25mm external width (19mm internal), for better tyre casing support, and tubeless ready profile. Claimed weight for the 26in version is 455g; the 29in option will add another 50g.
Syncros claim that post-forming stress relieving and work hardening makes their new DS25 rims strong and durable
Syncros will also build the new FL DS25 rims into complete wheelsets, featuring house-brand hubs with double-row Enduro cartridge bearings, alloy freehub bodies, and oversized axles. Front hubs will be available in 9mm quick-release and 15mm or 20mm through-axle fitments. Claimed weight for the 26in version is 1,700g for the pair, and 1,878g for the 29ers.
Syncros have responded to the trend for super-wide bars with this 1m-wide (39.37in) unit. Don't worry – it was created as a joke for the show, though invariably someone's now going to want one