Mavic Hoops, Computes, and Boots at Interbike

Mavic is one name that doesn’t need an introduction. The yellow Deemax rims sport an iconic look that, unless you’re totally new to the sport, you know right away is a Mavic. The company has actually been in business since 1889 and the name Mavic is actually an acronym – Manufacture d’Articles Vlocipdiques Idoux et Chanel (translation: manufacturers of articles for bicycles from Idoux and Chanel).

For 2011 Mavic is keeping most of the MTB wheelsets the same but did improve the mid-level Crosstrail Disk wheels, making them lighter and stiffer and adding a host of features. Mavic is also bringing back the Crossride UB/Disc wheelset which is a good replacement wheelset for those who are ready to swap out their OEM hoops. The Crossrides are compatible with either disk or v-brakes and perform well at a budget-friendly price.

Beyond wheels, Mavic is serious about electronics and showed off a revamped Wintech Wireless USB cycling computer that can be hooked up to your PC for serious data crunching. The large display makes it easy to see key stats at a glance plus, with the power to customize the data fields, you can view various sensor outputs (power, heart rate, etc.) on a single screen.

I also got the chance to preview Mavic’s expanded shoe and clothing lineup at Interbike. With the help of parent company Solomon (also a huge name in Alpine skiing / sports wear), Mavic has put considerable resources into creating high quality footwear for 2011 and beyond. Both trek7k and I were impressed with the quality and weight of the various shoes in the line up. With high-end racing XC shoes in the upper $300-range (the yellow Fury above) down to shoes in the $120-range (more my speed), Mavic has a ton of options to choose from (plus three colors of each model). I was really impressed with their new AM shoes (the white ones pictured above) – great ankle support, hidden laces to prevent brush snags, and a decent tread design for hike-a-bike. Definitely explore the Mavic website yourself and see what else they have for 2011!