Shimano unveils new CX70 cyclocross components:
The cross group is made up of the primary components of cantilever brakes, front derailleur, and cyclocross specific cranks. Those three parts now give us a full Shimano entry into cyclocross racing.
The brakes have been one of the most notable absences from the cyclocross offerings. The CX70 cantilever brakes are designed to work with all the new SLR brake levers. They come with great power and clearance. They also have hourglass spacers to help keep mud from building up. The CX70 also has a removable brake cartridge system to easily swap out brake pads.
Shimano CX70 Cyclocross Brakes
The crankset is based on the Ultegra hollow tech crank arm. It has cyclocross specific 46 and 36 tooth chainring configurations. In order to achieve the optimal shifting with that front chainring, there is a dedicated CX70 front derailleur in a multitude of pull and mounting styles. There is a bottom pull and a top pull offered with two different clamp diameters as well as braze-on.
Shimano CX70 Front Derailleur and Crankset
Shimano is well known for its front shifting and this setup continues that tradition with super fast and reliable shifting. The move front the chainrings in very fast, and the 46 tooth chainring is designed with several ramps to ensure quick shifting under load and power.
The CX50 group will also become available as a slightly lower end group. It does not have hollow arms, and will have slightly heavier brakes, but a lower cost.
