All Done - Ask Us Anything: Crankbrothers

Jun 27, 2016
by Richard Cunningham  
**Thanks, Crankbrothers for answering all the questions that you did today.**

Ask us anything


Crankbrothers has been through a number of major changes in the past few years. New owners, in the form of the Selle Royal Group, new management, the establishment of a research and development facility in Utah, the expansion of its Taiwan engineering and quality control facility, and the addition of a number of employees here in the USA. Since then, Crankbrothers made significant improvements to its Mallet DH pedal, introduced a new enduro version of the Mallet, and released the Highline dropper seatpost. The effort marks both a return to Crankbrothers’ roots and the beginning of a new chapter in the story of the innovative Laguna Beach component brand.

What's next? Why not ask them directly - right here on PB. Monday, June 27 at 10:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time, Crankbrothers’ management team will be at their computers, ready to answer any and all your questions. Fire off your questions in the comment section and the team will respond directly. Feel free to address Gaspare, Peter, Andy, Tim, Kellen, or Jason personally. It's a rare opportunity to speak directly to the people who conceived and designed each component - and to the decision makers who will be guiding the projects that Crankbrothers will be releasing in the future.


Meet the Crankbrothers Team

Crankbrothers
CEO, Espresso drinker, thinker. Took the helm in 2015. Passionate about creating a world-class brand and products. Intrepid leader.

Crankbrothers
Sales Director, Belgian native, recently relocated to Southern California. World traveler. Lives out of a suitcase. Ladykiller.

Crankbrothers
Global Marketing Manager, Apple aficionado. Surfer, snowboarder. Enjoys a nice post-ride IPA.
Crankbrothers
Product Line Manager, Nine-year veteran of multiple roles at Crankbrothers, trail builder, underground shredder.

Crankbrothers
Global Tech & Warranty Manager, Rider, racer, and retailer. Owned a shop in Vail, Colorado, for 14 years. Stokemaster.

Crankbrothers
Co-founder of Enve Composites, now mad scientist for Selle Royal Group R&D. Lover of fast cars, cold beers, and a good party.


Ask Us Anything Guidelines:

Crankbrothers would prefer to speak about its latest pedals and the new Highline dropper seatpost, but you are free to ask any question that relates to Crankbrothers and its product range. Keep your posts to one or two questions which are related to a single topic. If you are asking for personal advice, you might add a few words about your bike and riding style. You are free to voice your opinion - positive or otherwise - but keep negative or critical comments on topic and written in a conversational tone. Off topic or rude commenters may be removed from the string by PB Moderators. Finally, before you jump in with a question, check the comment string to see if it has already been answered. Rather than re-post a similar question, you may want to use the opportunity to expand upon the original answer.




Author Info:
RichardCunningham avatar

Member since Mar 23, 2011
974 articles

586 Comments
  • 635 43
 WHY DOES YOUR SHIT BREAK?
  • 32 11
 I like that their stuff is shiny.
  • 109 7
 How do you stay in business when your stuff has such a bad reputation? Your multi tools are great but other than that i haven't been impressed.
  • 86 2
 My first thought was why would CB subject themselves to what was sure to be a full on bitch fest?
  • 21 5
 @kubaner: Shows how completely oblivious they must be
  • 17 2
 no such thing as bad PR...think again
  • 9 2
 @kubaner: I said the same thing and got moderated..... Twice!!!
  • 6 1
 @UtahBikeMike: to be completely honest, their multitool disintegrated on me too, being in a saddle bad. Twice.
  • 31 2
 to quote @bonfire because they took down his comment which is bullshit,

''Because all of the staff spent more time thinking up their witty titles instead of building and testing reputable products.
But thankfully they have an apple aficionado on staff.''
  • 22 3
 I this "A ROAST?" Can we get a list of guest "pink bike celebrities"
  • 10 8
 @UtahBikeMike: Most people I know use CB pedals even if they do break. They are the best disposable pedals on the Market. I do have to say that a pair of Mallets lasted a whopping 3 years.
  • 47 4
 @JC9won4: I'd say after the last 5 years of producing garbage products across the board, Crankbrothers deserves every bit of hate they have coming. Bearings that are a joke, products that regularly snap and fail across the board, 3 dropper posts that were straight up trash with the Kronolog, their most heavily hyped dropper post being the biggest failure of all. If any company deserves to be roasted it's Crankbrothers, and I'm just glad that the top 5 people in charge of the company have to read hundreds of comments saying that the products they have produced have held up for shit.
  • 9 3
 @diego-b:

I have scars on my left calf from the 2 pairs of candy 3s i owned.
  • 7 3
 @fatwheels123: 5 years ?? what are you talking about , they've been making bad product since DAY 1 !!
  • 9 9
 Why are these crank-brothers more reliable and trustworthy than your Crankbrothers?

s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/e3/fe/0c/e3fe0ca7d7e50f2645231efb7a98adcb.jpg
  • 154 9
 Dear @therealtylerdurden, a couple of years ago before getting in charge of the company, I spent a lot of time listening to feedback from riders about crankbrothers. There were positive and negative comments: our attitude has been to work on the negative comments to improve everything we are and were doing. One comment, in particular, stood in my mind: “hire less designers, hire more engineers”. Two years ago, when I got in charge of the company I kept in mind that comment and we started a new era from there. Small passionate companies like ours are made by people, and the first focus for us has been to build a new team with new engineers that develop and test products in different environments than California. For this reason one year ago we opened a new R&D center in Utah, with a new engineering team, lead by Jason Schiers, with a strong focus on reliable and innovative products. The first output of the new team has been changing the components of our pedals to drastically improve the durability and the new dropper post, the Highline. We are extremely committed to make sure this is only the beginning of this new chapter. // gaspare
  • 23 5
 @crankbrothers: I've been extremely happy with most of my CB pedals. I have a horrible left knee so the extra float really helps me stay in the saddle and keep my mind focused on riding rather than any injuries.
  • 8 5
 @crankbrothers: Looks like I got here just in time.

My question is a follow up question to your statement.

What is your company policy vs your personal philosophy on customer support of your products, both newer and the old.

Moving forwards, how do you plan to regain people's confidence in your products?

Is there a particular company in the brand who you feel handled their failures well in which you might emulate? ex: Kona, Norco, Trek, Marzocchi (sorry that ones a joke)
  • 4 0
 Now, now... my composite Candy's lasted almost 2 months before the bearings went to shit... whereas my top end set took 1 pedal strike, ONE, and they were pooched. I didn't even warranty them... been on XTs for 2 seasons now with no issues, whatsoever. However, in fairness, I still have a set of the original egg beaters purchased in 2002 that run smooth... so something clearly happened when production scaled up to meet higher demand.
  • 9 4
 @crankbrothers: have you learned anything from this little exercise/marketing scheme?

Maybe getting feedback from people that give you money is more valuable than feedback from people on your payroll.
  • 16 1
 @JUKILOP02: Crankbrothers offers a lifetime warranty on the M-Series tools and we are here to help you out. If you need parts for it, send a photo of your tool to the link below and we can send you what you need.

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

Or if you prefer, you can generate a RA via this link and send us the tool for repair or replacement.

www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket

Thank you,

// Tim
  • 36 0
 @unrooted: I'll take the other side of the argument and give them kudos for doing this.... you can tell from some of the comments that they knew of challenges with their products and are in process of trying to address them. It is incredibly brave of a company to put themselves out there like this knowing it has a good chance of being mostly negative but being prepared to respond to those complaints in a constructive, here's what we're doing about it" way.

It's like walking into the house to face you're SO after an argument where, after a cool down period, you know full well you were wrong... either return to keep fighting OR claim mea culpa and look for ways to move on. I'll tell you from experience, only one of those approaches will be successful. Wink
  • 49 1
 @fatwheels123: We're sorry for your bad experiences with our products. Most of us are new into this company and have decided to put our face in front of you. This team in front of you didn't develop the products you're complaining of, but we take accountability for that. We decided not to turn our back, but since 2 years we have decided to work hard to improve our products listening the feedback of other people that love mountain bike as we do. We are confident now about the quality of our range and be open to help all the riders that might not have had positive experiences with our products in the past. // gaspare
  • 15 1
 @crankbrothers: Awesome, thanks fot the reply. I wish you guys the best- I've always dug your offerings, just disappointed by the reliability. Beer
  • 50 0
 @therealtylerdurden: you're invited for free beers here at 580 Broadway Laguna Beach // Gaspare
  • 9 0
 @crankbrothers: Appreciate you guys willing to reintroduce yourselves here, and for that I give you guys props as others have said. I understand that you guys are trying to reinvent the product line for the most part from the past few years. A question I have, is there a story or an example that you can talk about where you discovered from testing/design where an older product proved inadequate and needed a significant change? If so, it would be interesting to hear your general approach to rememdy the issue and to bring the product to your new standard. I have had a hit or miss history with you guys, I had an older rear wheel that tacoed in only a handful of rides, but your mallets have proven themselves which were recently bought. Anyway I can understand taking the mantle for another groups shortcommings and I hope you guys do well in the future. Thanks.
  • 5 0
 @UtahBikeMike: i like my cb multitool too!
  • 26 0
 @kubaner: We want to take this opportunity to speak directly with the pinkbike audience to understand both positive and negative experiences, take accountability for mistakes of the past, and demonstrate how we have been improving personnel and process to create world-class, reliable, products moving forward. Over the past 2 years we have put a new management team in place, expanded our quality control facility in Taiwan, opened a new R&D facility in Utah, and implemented much more rigorous product development and testing processes. The first output of of this new team is the complete revamp of the 2016 pedal line with new bearings & sealing to significantly improve reliability, and the highline dropper post. // Kellen
  • 8 0
 @crankbrothers:

I'll gladly test a pair of the new enduro mallets in utah. Just sayin'.

My candy 3s required re-packing with grease every 6 months or so. The edges developed a steak knife like edge from laying my bike on it's side that scarred my calves. I chamfered the edges and they were ok from then on out, but replacing $25 brass clips every 4-6 months got old.

Any plans on a harder clip? Something like cast steel that's still softer than the cages.
  • 2 1
 @tcmtnbikr:

Maybe they are doing this because they know about their product issues and are making changes? IDK though?
  • 3 17
flag XCMark (Jun 27, 2016 at 10:59) (Below Threshold)
 @UtahBikeMike:

Everyone gets scares from pedals. How are your scares any different?
  • 14 1
 @crankbrothers: Why did you decide to test in Utah and California? Some of us ride in the UK, Scotland, Switzerland, Canada. There are places where it rains sometimes and there is mud.
  • 13 0
 @XCMark: I have Shimano pedals and they don't scare me one bit.
  • 2 2
 @crankbrothers:

You also need to have your pedals tested in the wet months in France, and in the dry volcanic ash laden mountains around Mt. St. Helens.

Also, for shits and giggles, send a pair of mallets to this guy... www.youtube.com/channel/UCcMDMoNu66_1Hwi5-MeiQgw
  • 7 0
 @crankbrothers: Thanks! tup Fair warning.. My drinking *may* bankrupt you!
  • 2 0
 @dave-f: That's actually a good point, I wonder if there was a way CB could create some sort of short list of folks from all sorts of regions who have the resources (bike, location and conditions) to really test your products? Im sure you already have a few groups that get to try out your products, but I think it could be quite beneficial if your product saw even more time in areas all around the world to get ridden on?

As far as the short list is concerned, you could make a very concentrated criteria that you want individuals who are applying to get on the list to have given their region and environment? I would imagine the UK would be great at seeing how the water/mud can really affect your product and if that contended with any sort of longevity. Lastly, the short list could help create a new form of ambassadors for their region to help share the new face you guys are bringing to CB in a positive light. Food for thought.
  • 9 0
 @dave-f: In the past 2 years, we've put new processes in place; including testing our products in all types of riding conditions (rain, mud, sand, snow, dust, heat, cold, etc) all over the world. For example, we've tested the highline dropper post in UK, Scotland, Norway, Canada, Australia, Argentina, US, and elsewhere. To be clear, our global headquarters are in Laguna Beach, and our new R&D facility is in Utah, but we are testing our new products all over the world. // Kellen
  • 9 3
 Have you maybe thought of selling your packs pedals in pairs then people would have something to use while the others are being fixed?
  • 7 0
 @dave-f: I'm glad you asked that. SR56 (our new development center in Utah) has test riders in the UK, Scotland, Canada, Minnesota, as well as California and Utah for the exact reasons you mentioned. Our products need to be tested in the worst of conditions and you guys have it. Cheers // Andy
  • 6 0
 @fatwheels123: our main focus is now to build and test reputable products. We decided to involve five of you in our field product testing. If you're interested to take part on it please private message us. //Gaspare
  • 7 0
 @jewpowered: my personal philosophy and the company philosophy match. We sell premium products and we need to provide premium service. So if our consumer has an issue it's our responsibility to solve it. One of the best example for us are outside of the industry, one of the best examples for me is the way Mercedes with the class A issue back in the days or more recently Toyota. //Gaspare
  • 6 4
 @crankbrothers: The idea of less designers and more engineers is bull. Hire good designers and good engineers. One of the main reasons people buy your stuff is for the design. They don't come back because the engineering fails to support that design. With Apple fanboys in management, one would think you'd understand that.
  • 2 1
 @sbrdude1: that's not a question.
  • 6 0
 @sbrdude1: that's a big benefit of our technology, as the system is very "forgiving" with people that has knee or hip problem //gaspare
  • 4 0
 @sbrdude1: that's a big benefit of our technology, as the system is very "forgiving" with people that has knee or hip problem //gaspare
  • 5 0
 @coot83:

The pedals are a good example of the change, we are working on many aspects currently but the first thing we did was upgrade to Enduro and Igus. Both have great track records and reputations. I'm a big believer in partnering with experts!

Cheers
  • 12 0
 @nonk: obviously we didn't hire less designers, we hire more and better engineers: our takeover from that comment was that we needed to invest more on engineering not less on design. we want to keep our strengths and work on our point of improvement. Thanks for helping me to specify that. // Gaspare
  • 7 0
 @unrooted: We've been looking forward to this for a while. We get valuable feedback from the community, and an opportunity to let you know that we're listening. We're take accountability for past mistakes, and have made changes to people & process to address the issues. Evidence of these changes can be found in the significant quality improvements to our 2016 pedal line, and in the highline dropper post. We believe this is a new era for crankbrothers // Kellen
  • 7 0
 Of course, engineers and designers are both vitally important. CB is not moving away from design, but we're improving our engineering and product development ensure that our products as reliable as they are beautiful. // Kellen
  • 8 0
 @crankbrothers: Thanks, your stuff is cool and I'd love to get it back on my bikes. This is a good first step in rebuilding that trust.
  • 2 2
 @crankbrothers: Sounds like you guys had the wrong kind of designers who weren't thinking about usability.
  • 2 14
flag Dobbs59 (Jun 27, 2016 at 14:18) (Below Threshold)
 @crankbrothers: Why don't you test your kit in harsh environments like winter in canada or the UK? Something might fly in Utah, chuck some wet grit in it and it dies. Just an idea bro.
  • 1 0
 @UtahBikeMike: I swear they make the cleats out of pewter! The 4-6 month range for me was pretty standard, too.
  • 6 0
 @Dobbs59: In the past 2 years, we've put new product development processes in place, including testing in all types of harsh riding conditions (rain, mud, sand, snow, dust, heat, cold, etc) all over the world. For example, we tested the highline dropper post in UK, Scotland, Norway, Canada, Australia, Argentina, US, and elsewhere. Here's a video from -8°c Norway: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3H5Ivkc_NM

To be clear, our global HQ is in Laguna Beach, and our new R&D facility in Utah, but we're testing in harsh conditions all over globe.

// Kellen
  • 10 0
 @crankbrothers: Congrats to Crank bros for giving us an open forum. I remember the old days of CB and seeing where they are now is nothing short of impressive.
  • 1 12
flag davemud (Jun 27, 2016 at 16:47) (Below Threshold)
 Big Grin Why did CB think this was a good idea? Why did CB think it would go well? Is it too early CB?
  • 14 0
 @davemud: our goal was to listen the pinkbike community and tell what we are doing. We are happy we did it, we owed that to this community: we put our faces because that's what we do now. We want to make the best products possible and we will fight every day to make it happen. //Gaspare
  • 2 2
 @UtahBikeMike: Only pedals I've ever broken were CB's; 3 egg beaters, 2 candy's, and a mallet-c that sheared off right at the axle slicing my calf nicely. Sorry CB, great looking stuff that just doesn't hold up. Shimano looks less cool but works much better.
  • 1 0
 Savage!
  • 4 0
 Personally, I'm willing to give them another shot. I believe their responses from today, and I f*cking love the float of their pedals. tup
  • 3 0
 @therealtylerdurden: I'll give it a few years, if the reviews from pinkbikers are different then I'll consider CB. I used to hate Rock shox after the garbage they produced during the late 90's, but they are decent now.
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers:
Snapped torx on my multitool during reverb installation(light duty job), receipt lost...
You will get the pic and my address soon gents!
  • 2 0
 @robwhynot: I was just going to say the same. I'm a wrench and I use a set of the original egg beaters for test ride pedals at work. Nevery dine any work on them and they still run like a dream aside from looking like hell. On the other hand I bought a new set maybe 3 years ago and they lasted 1 season before the wings were so loose I could pull straight up and out of them.
A buddy just bought the loprofile mallets though and the quality does seem better.
  • 1 1
 Hahahahahaahaahhaahahahhahaa
  • 1 3
 @crankbrothers: I support crank brothers because I like your stuff, but i've gone through 3 pairs of crankBrothers DH Mallet Pedals on just one bike this year because the bearings simply do not last. Thats sort of ridiculous.
  • 1 0
 @Macropod: How could you like those pedals after blowing up 3 sets in 6 months if we're starting from January? A pair every 2 months? Sort of ridiculous? I have Shimano pedals that 20 years old and still good with a repack every 5 years or so.
  • 202 12
 Which product are you most ashamed of?
1.Kronolog
2.Joplin
3.Joplin 2
4.Joplin 3
5.All the directsets
6.50/50 pedals
7.Hubs on all the wheels
8.Spokes on all the wheels
9.Telling people who you work for
  • 69 2
 I just received CB's answer to your question. Their answer is "Yes".
  • 22 2
 Actually lol'd when I got to number9
  • 6 1
 +1 actually lol'd at my desk
  • 68 3
 @watchmen it's tough to take responsibility for something we have not directly being involved, but we'll take accountability.. : Kronolog. It was rushed to market, but as soon as we got in charge we decided to remove it from the market and provide the best customer service we could. Our office and phone line is always on for all our consumers that have trusted us. // Gaspare
  • 12 7
 @crankbrothers: any chance I will be given a refund on my kronolog that broke after 3 rides totalling 9 hours on the bike? Your customer service department was as shocking as your products.
  • 14 25
flag thedeathstar (Jun 27, 2016 at 11:57) (Below Threshold)
 @DannyJB: Didn't you hear? That was under someone else's watch, so they aren't responsible.
  • 7 39
flag thedeathstar (Jun 27, 2016 at 12:01) (Below Threshold)
 @crankbrothers: No, it isn't tough. Crankbrothers is responsible and culpable regardless of how long you have worked there. No one who wasted money on your junk cares about your personal story within Crankbrothers.
  • 7 4
 @crankbrothers

definition of accountability: the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.
  • 24 0
 @thedeathstar: I said we take accountability even for everything that happened prior to us. We can't change the past, but we are doing the best we can for today and tomorrow. //Gaspare
  • 18 2
 @ccolagio: thanks, I was worried my English was not good enough... //Gaspare
  • 3 66
flag stumpymidget (Jun 27, 2016 at 13:52) (Below Threshold)
 @crankbrothers: it's "been", not "being". If you can't even get that right it's no wonder your products are f#cking hopeless.
  • 17 0
 @stumpymidget: have you not seen his reply above, not his first language
  • 20 0
 @stumpymidget: I understand if your frustrated but even so there's no reason to be an ass.
  • 14 0
 @DannyJB: Lets get some more information so we can better assist you. Please generate service ticket via the link below or send our seatpost technician Nick your contact information ( nick@crankbrothers.com ) so he can reach out to you personally.

www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket

Thank you, //Tim
  • 18 0
 @crankbrothers: Now THAT is the right kind of attitude to have. 'We didn't make it but we'll try and fix it.' Kudos to you Crankbrothers.
  • 8 0
 @Scotty7447: he's a midget with a stump, of course he's got a right to be an angry ass. ;-)
  • 1 7
flag Macropod (Jun 29, 2016 at 13:10) (Below Threshold)
 @crankbrothers: how can you not take responsibility for a brand you represent?
  • 1 1
 @crankbrothers: So you current guys bought CB for pennies on the dollar, probably out of bankruptcy and are going to reinvent the brand? Like it or not CB's legacy is your legacy. Like I said else where offer trade ins on the old defects for the new improved and take the financial risk yourselves instead of asking the cycling community to do it again for you.
  • 160 4
 Tim Young, warranty manager, how does it feel to be the busiest guy in the bike industry?
  • 12 3
 How long does it take to set up an auto-reply stating: Crankbrothers warranty doesn't cover products used for trail riding...
  • 48 0
 Hi @racerfacer , having owned and operated bike shops for almost 20 years, I know what it is like when product fails. I came on board with Crankbrothers seven years ago and have tried to build the best customer support program in the industry using this experience. Yes, I am the busiest guy in the industry, not for the reason you want to believe, but because I have been there, felt your pain when things go wrong, and vow to do all I can to regain your trust in our brand. // Tim
  • 48 1
 @crankbrothers: I gotta give my props to Tim.

I joined you guys for the group ride a few months ago and was having shifting issues before the ride. I was panicked trying to fix in in the parking lot and I couldn't figure it out for the life of me. Last thing I wanted was to miss out on a group ride with Cedric Garcia AND Hans Rey.

I rolled my bike across the parking lot and into their showroom (NOTE: not a shop) and met Tim. He quickly helped me diagnose the issue right there on the showroom floor, and we figured out the top ferrule was missing. He handed me a cable and ferrule and I was able to fix it in the parking lot and make the group ride.

TLDR: Tim is awesome and hands down one of the nicest and most helpful people I have met. I still owe him a beer.
  • 7 2
 @Deeber: Gracia
  • 22 5
 @crankbrothers: The single worst warranty experience I have ever had, working in a shop (20+ years of ski/bike), was with CB. A customer's Joplin failed (surprise!) you refused to warranty it without proof of purchase, problem was it was purchased as a component on a Giant ReignX... from a different shop. He didn't have it and you told me, in no uncertain words to "go pound sand". I ended up paying for a RS Dropper post for him because he was left waiting so long. I get that not every damaged product is a warranty, I am all for companies saying "not a defect, crash damage, sorry." but when you ABSOLUTELY KNOW that your product, as built, sucks you need to stand behind it and not hide behind demands for 'proof of purchase'. That type of bullshit leaves a taste in the mouth that cannot be washed out.
  • 2 0
 @cuban-b: Thanks was on my phone must have auto-corrected without me catching it
  • 10 0
 @Deeber: I appreciate the call out and am happy to share that beer with you! It was nice to put my old mechanic skills to the test Smile

See you at the next group ride!

//Tim
  • 143 13
 Lol. Negative comments will be removed. Don't want to get your feelings hurt, after producing garbage products for years. What a joke.

Where's the moderators for the customers losing their goddamn minds in my store because they're new product has just shat itself after a handful of rides?

Produce one new pedal, that appears to last a bit longer than a few weeks of use and you pat yourself on the back? Sweet. I'll continue to do everything I can to sell anyone any other product than the excressence you guys call a finished product.
  • 16 1
 You weren't kidding. A huge amount of comments have been deleted. It just goes to show that we have very little love for things that break/fail.
  • 14 3
 @aoneal:

The comments that were deleted were not questions to CB, rather rants and anecdotes about their products. They said uptop what's going to happen. No suprises here like some other threads ninjaedits
  • 23 8
 Pinkbike, you're deleting comments? Is this a paid advertisement? This smells a lot like what Stephan Harper did and only have pre-approved questions asked at press conferences.
  • 12 3
 @WayneParsons:

They need to figure out some way to keep it civil. As long as they don't delete any question thats a hard question, I'm ok with it.
  • 9 1
 Honestly, I'm kind of surprised that my comment up top is still there. Be interesting to see Crank Bros response.
  • 13 1
 If a company has received this many negative comments, is there not a message there? If I were a company owner I would want to read the negative comments, more so than the positive ones.
  • 4 1
 @therealtylerdurden: well you did ask a question, lol. Positive or otherwise is what the statement says, you were a bit blunt but I am looking forward to reading their answer.
  • 3 2
 True, I just figured that "yell typing" it and such may be construed as overly negative.
  • 9 6
 These guys are laughing all the way to the bank because for every one of us complainers, there are 10 dentists who ride 10 times a year and have no problem opening up their chequebook for a BOOSTed, CB'd out bike.
  • 2 1
 @WayneParsons: Who is Stephen Harper? Just kidding, I'm Canadian too.
  • 57 8
 @WayneParsons: The only comments that were deleted were either not questions, or were off topic. This was done to ensure that Crankbrothers's team and PB Participants would not have to scroll past 260 comments to answer questions from readers who logged on at 10:00am today when the show was scheduled to start. No negative questions were harmed in this process.
RC
  • 33 1
 @bonfire Thanks for your comments. Nobody's patting anybody on the back. Every single person here is aware of the hard work we'll need to put in to regain your confidence by making nothing short of the highest quality and most reliable products. Specifically on pedals, all of our 2016 pedals have been upgraded with new bearings and sealing and come with a 5 year warranty. I would very much appreciate the opportunity to come see you in your shop, listen to your experiences and have a constructive discussion so you can see what efforts we're making to improve all users' experiences. // Peter
  • 6 8
 @crankbrothers: a lot of companies give free products to bike shops so they can verify the company claims, and then report back to both the company and to the customers. . . But I can understand why your company wouldn't want to do that.
  • 28 0
 @crankbrothers: I just had to say, I'm pretty damn impressed with both your transparency and your thoughtful answers so far. New found respect from me! Keep it up!
  • 5 0
 @unrooted: someone in the shop I work in has been given a set of new CB flat pedals to test. So one way or another (via distributor or CB) product does make it's way into shops for 'normal' people to test and give feedback on.
  • 3 1
 @wallheater: good to hear!
  • 124 0
 @Crankbrothers, you are Very VERY brave to be doing this given the history of the company. Kudos to you.
Why should I buy a high line seatpost over the many other proven products, especially given the repeated failures of your past models?
  • 55 5
 also how do you compete with the new post from fox that is 60 grams lighter and $30 cheaper?
  • 5 5
 @BrianK24: true true. I would much rather get a sexy kashima dropper and be blinging on the trails
  • 6 2
 @BrianK24: maybe in the States.

In EU fox performance is 400eur, Highline is 250eur.
Fox trumps even Thomson and Magura.

Quite the difference.
  • 14 0
 @Daver27 It has taken us no less than 3 years of development and extensive (field) testing around the world to introduce the Highline. We have absorbed and used all feedback (both negative and positive) from previous products to make a product that comes with a 3 year warranty. We made no compromises and used nothing but the best components in the Highline like Igus bushing and glide keys and a Trelleborg seal.You don't even need to go to your bike shop for servicing as it is very straightforward and it also offers probably one one the most ergonomic remote levers that is super easy to assemble in any single position of your preference on your bars.
Should you like to know more about the Highline, please access the following link:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmzlUKMa-c2twMf-VavYAZYEzuITJZNS8
Hope this helps. //Peter
  • 14 2
 @BrianK24: The Highline Dropper Post retails at $350 with the remote lever included. For the new Fox post you have to buy the lever separately which costs you another $65. As for weight, again our advertised weight of 580grams accounts for all parts that come with the dropper post. I have just put a 30.9mm Highline on the scale and it said 518grs for the post + actuator while the remote lever + cable & housing came in at 37grs. The advertised Fox post weight does not include the remote lever. // Peter
  • 3 3
 @crankbrothers: I was including the price of the lever in the price I listed.
  • 116 5
 Why do egg beaters lose the beater bit?. An egg beater without a beater is just and egg so they should be called egg pedals. This new name would more accurately represent the resilience and elect life span associated with the product
  • 14 2
 I had this happen 5km deep into a trail. The beater part was still attached to my shoe and I had to hold my foot on the axle and tirelessly pedal back, that was the last crank bros product I ever bought.
  • 2 0
 @maninblue: Was with a guy on a trail that happened to. Also, miles from the car.
  • 103 3
 If my pedal looks like that top left picture, can I warranty it or should I put it on a tree?
  • 5 1
 this made me laugh at my desk. bravo sir.
  • 92 4
 Why do you choose design over engineering all the time?
  • 11 1
 this is my main problem with CB- i've tried to like them many times, but over and over i've been disappointed. pedals, pumps, tools, headsets. fool me once...
  • 21 1
 Ben-P,

I think the fact one of the most talented and biggest personalities in the founding group is design focused I think it naturally moved that way. But I can say that the introduction of myself and the team of engineers we are assembling that the focus will be different in the future.

//Jason
  • 77 1
 Can I weld my CB seatpost to my seat to stop it coming loose?
  • 73 5
 Why do you guys care so much about looks and so little about performance?
  • 45 0
 Story of my life.
  • 8 0
 Thoughts on fashion/aesthetics vs function?
  • 9 6
 @ardor:

I think they are equally as important as long as they are purposeful and address riders needs. SR56 should be the entity that keeps both sides in balance moving forward.

Cheers, Jason
  • 46 4
 I have a question for Gaspare. Since you took over the reins in 2015 you would have had plenty time to look at he strengths and weaknesses of the CB brand/products. As you can gauge from the amount of haters voicing their opinions/experiences on this thread CB has had its issues with reliability. Can you please explain what the fundamental failings were and what your plans are to improve on these in the future. To make this question a little more specific you could focus on one single product line, like.......dropper seatposts maybe. I am looking forward to informed response. Thanks
  • 19 3
 @integralnz as you correctly stated, It has definitely been my focus. crankbrothers has always been a great design firm, with big focus to create products that improve the riding experience, but have had inconsistent product durability. My focus since day 1 has been to work on this major point of improvement. We are a small company where people makes most of the difference: so we built a new Engineering team, with a new leader, Jason Schiers, and created a new facility in Ogden completely changing the way we engineer products. Furthermore we changed the way we test products: now we test products in different environment, British Columbia, Norway, Scotland, California trying to test the products on all the different environments. This past 2 years we focused mostly on pedals and dropper post: our goal is to build bomb proof products and improve the riding experience at the same time. Talking about dropper post, we are very disciplined now about the test process, for this reason we released only the 125 mm, as the 150mm and 100 mm are still under test. We are working very hard, but taking the right time to release new products. // Gaspare
  • 7 2
 @crankbrothers: Only time will tell... I really hope you guys don't put your foot in your mouth... again.
  • 11 0
 @crankbrothers: I watched a video on pinkbike where Santa Cruz bicycles tested their carbon frames, Santa Cruz has gained respect and consumer confidence. I would enjoy seeing crankbros testing videos, certainly helps make buying decisions. I for one will spend extra on a product that is thoroughly tested and meet/exceeds safety standards ! just my 2 cents...
  • 3 0
 @crankbrothers: Fair play Gaspare. Can you please ask Jason to magic up some nice composite flat pedals? 15-17mm thick with good weatherproofness, weighing in around 350g, 2 year warranty and sell for circa $80USD. I can pre-order today if that will help to get the ball rolling. What do you say?
  • 14 0
 @justincs:I agree with you, we are going to make it happen. Kellen is going to upload to youtube some test videos in half an hour, and with the completion of our new test lab we will share more our new test processes. //gaspare
  • 12 0
 @justincs: Here are a few test videos related to the Highline dropper post:

Highline repetitive cycle testing: youtu.be/gdXYX9a6PD0
Result: the Highline tested to 40,000 cycles, equivalent of 5 years of regular use.

Highline seal/wear testing: youtu.be/EorionVad7g
Result: the Highline tested to 18,000 cycles with no leaks.

Highline real-world testing, Norway -8°c: youtu.be/C3H5Ivkc_NM
Result: no degradation of performance in freezing cold weather.

// Kellen
  • 6 0
 @crankbrothers: -8°c? That's like October!
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers: Thank you!
  • 4 0
 @integralnz: I asked him. Jason? //Gaspare
  • 36 3
 I really like the look and the feel of all the crankbros pedals but the only thing I don't like about them is the durability of the bearings even on the top of the line ti pedals I have owned with sealed bearing didn't last more than 2 months before needing to be replaced.do you have any plans to try update the bearing system or use higher quality bearings?
  • 6 2
 "do you have any plans to try update the bearing system or use higher quality bearings?"

Do you have plans to pay more?
  • 4 1
 @chillrider199: re think what ? Not sure I follow..The new mallets have been on point ..Had a pair of iodines back right after the updated the free hub..Rode those for three seasons without issue as well before i stepped to some nox carbons
  • 13 1
 @dirt-wizard: The 2016 pedal range that we launched last year have completely updated internals. All pedals and all models were updated. We are using Enduro bearings on the outboard side of the pedals and IGUS bearings on the inboard side of the pedals. Additionally we’ve added an external seal over the double lip seal to keep contaminants out. // Andy
  • 1 4
 Replace the bearings with better ones! Better bearings included would probably translate to a higher price. Crankbros is not making their own bearings, they are contracting for them.
  • 3 2
 @crankbrothers:

I like doing research on most everything that entertains me... Could I have the part number to the IGUS bearing/bushing?

Thing is, if you guys are using a IGUS bushing, why not switch over to Delrin bushings for longevity and it's self lubricating properties? Did you test Delrin and have it fail in your application needs?

If you are using the Xiros bearings, why was the decision made to use those bearings specifically?
  • 10 1
 @XCMark: We have looked at Delrin bushings in the past but they are too soft and deform in certain riding scenarios. We worked with IGUS to develop a specific bushing best suited for our use. It’s not a standard off the shelf model that they offer. The new IGUS bushing that we’re using greatly outperforms everything that we have tested to this point. // Andy
  • 38 4
 I've always wanted to ask Crankbrothers a question. Pressures on now. Um.. uh... what's your favorite brand of cereal?
  • 21 0
 Kellen- Cinnamon Toast Crunch
Gas- Muesli Croccante Solidal
Andy- Gronola
Peter- Frosties
Tim- Gronola/Metamucil
Jason- Corn Chex mixed with Strawberry Shredded Wheat
  • 9 0
 Joebro1995- What's yours?
  • 35 6
 Why is there not a single engineer on the answering panel? Did they refuse to come because Pinkbike will shit over them for the crap they have produced in the past, or are they too busy designing the next product that will look good on paper and is very shiny/pretty to look at, but will fail spectacularly.
  • 9 6
 Does Crankbrothers have any engineers on staff? Or just industrial designers and market-eers?
  • 7 1
 @unrooted:

It's like people are not even reading.
  • 7 0
 fatwheels123, I'm your engineering voice, since the beginning of the year I have been assembling a team of engineers that will be doing all PD going forward at a facility in Utah called SR56. As for the direction of new products I believe we have up'd our standards moving forward. Cheers, Jason
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: are you still hiring engineers for the new facility in Ogden? I'm local and would love to shoot a resume your way if you are still hiring.
  • 1 1
 Wait a minute, where was my earlier comments? wtf deleted?
  • 33 3
 After not leaving the industry after the kronolog disaster, are you thinking of a rebate for the unhappy purchasers of it? Or maybe a free swap for a Highline dropper seatpost (given it actually works)?
  • 2 1
 I think that would be the only way to sell the new highline. Maybe old post and $100? But free would be awesome. It's the only way I would ever try one.
  • 3 0
 @heathwb: I don't know about anyone else, but the only way I'll ever consider another CB product is if they gave me a free replacement of everything I've owned from them. A post, 6 sets of pedals, a handful of multi tools, a pump and a tire lever. The tire lever is the only thing that didn't fail.

I'd sooner smoke a rolled up 100 dollar bill than buy a CB post, odds are after 6 months the results would be the same.
  • 9 0
 @IluvRIDING We want to help out whenever we can when someone has had a bad experience with our products. If you send us a PM, we would be more than happy to help you out and make sure you have a great experience using the new Highline Dropper Post. // Peter
  • 25 1
 @Crankbrothers- I have to say after reading some of the responses I'm very impressed. Some PB users are throwing some heavy stones your way and you guys seem to be on point with good responses. I can really appreciate the approach the new CB crew is taking. I wish you guys the best of luck in turning the company's quality around.
  • 3 0
 I have to agree. Caught myself looking at some mallet-e's
  • 24 2
 Ladykiller, Stoke master, Expresso drinker, Underground shredder, Mad scientist and Apple aficionado

Is this the work of a marketing consultant or is this the CEO showing his intrepid leadership ideas?
  • 38 1
 I think it's more a commentary on why their products' lifespans are measured in feet.
  • 6 2
 @flynngav: Clearly the work of a marketing genius. // Kellen
  • 24 0
 How do they get the smooth, round coating on Maltesers?
  • 29 6
 200+ comments, and not a single positive one.

..it was only a matter of time before they pulled this from the front page.
  • 10 2
 I noticed that too! I think I am more excited for this than the next DH World Cup.
  • 5 5
 They already did. I had to google this thread to find it. It's bookmarked now just to find it easier next time, but I'm sure this thread won't see a light anymore.
  • 13 8
 Delete the page, then delete all the comments...........I guess the truth hurts.
  • 36 40
flag RichardCunningham (Jun 26, 2016 at 8:39) (Below Threshold)
 @rivercitycycles: Page comes back up tomorrow. Off-topic comments were removed so PB member's questions would have priority first thing in the AM. This is, after all a Q&A feature.
RC
  • 33 6
 @RichardCunningham I've been active on pinkbike for many years and have had mature design/ mechanical discussions with you before. This is a really poor show from your team. No other 'Ask us anything' article has ever been pulled from front page and inflammatory/poor comments were just left to get down voted. I hope Crank brothers get made an example of here and the rest of the industry takes note. I've said before Pinkbike has strayed from honest reviewing into advertising for certain brands which is very disheartening as a consumer. Unless you guys tell it as it is, we end up riding terrible kit at a higher cost.
  • 20 5
 back on the front, just like RC said it would be
  • 10 7
 @RichardCunningham: Mr Richard Cunningham, sir you are below threshold.
  • 3 1
 @weebleswobbles: LOL. Funniest comment today.
  • 3 0
 @Ritgut: I sprayed cereal and milk through my nose when I saw that he was below threshold..had to say something!
  • 27 6
 New owners, new management - if they dont come up with a new company name they will not be around much longer given the legacy left by the crap previously made.
  • 15 0
 @AinsleyTrimix we are doing everything in our power to help consumers that didn't have great experiences with our products in the past. Said that, as lots of riders are saying here we need to focus on the products not on the branding right? //Gaspare
  • 21 2
 Lots of marketing, sales, and customer service reps here, maybe if their the focus of your question group you're putting your energy in the wrong place. We want to know why your products aren't durable and why the hell you knowingly push stuff that can seriously injure people when it fails.

Do you actually understand the general sentiment toward your company in this sport?
  • 5 1
 thisspock, I can reply based on someone who for years watched CB from the outside, I too had a negative opinion of the quality as well, However since I've been involved the new ownership has done nothing but promote improvement, accountability, and customer service. I believe in time that the current negative views will diminish. Cheers, Jason
  • 18 1
 Did any current members of the team have anything to do with the kronolog? If so why?.... Just why? I mean come on you can't expect any sort of trust if they are.
If not where are they now ? Preferably far far away from the mtb industry but not designing seat belts for baby seats or anything important.
  • 6 0
 There are two members of the panel from that period, they have shared their frustrations over that time frame. Many quality issues that they voiced concern about were ignored, it was a different culture and approach than that of the current ownership. I can say from my time here, not only are they appreciating having a voice but they have served as the catalyst for many of the improvements. Cheers, Jason
  • 18 1
 This will likely get buried... But I have thought for years that Crankbrothers should specialize in marketing and packaging in the bike industry. The only decent product they have release in the last 5 years is the mallet pedal. Instead of floundering around why dont you license other products and package them and market them because that seems to be what you are actually good at.
  • 4 0
 @Co2x2 we respect your opinion, as here we are talking about what we are doing to improve in the company: we are not going to talk about products that have been successful, but about those ones that didn't work. The takeover of your comment for me is that we did good marketing, and we needed to do great products. I'm in line with you, that's what we have been doing for 2 years and what we need to do for the future: we have invested in new people and in a new way of engineering products. I hope one day you'll write us that you've noticed this change. All the best //Gaspare
  • 13 0
 Thanks to everybody for your time. We were planning 4 hours session, it ended up to be the whole day: your time has been extremely valuable to us. If we miss any questions, please private message us on pinkbike or at info@crankbrothers.com. Everybody of you is welcome at our office, we will be happy to ride together. All the best crankbrothers team
  • 15 2
 From my personal experience of owning a pair of CrankBrothers Opium 3 wheels since April 2012, they were a great set of wheels, lasted me many seasons riding various bikeparks around the world with only ever having to replace one rim for the rear wheel.
HOWEVER if you live outside of America and/or if you don't have industry links/sponsorship, it seems the support for them once you need replacement parts & servicing is close to non existent.

Sad really, the UST & design simplicity have alot going for the wheelset. But seems like a pointless wheelset to have if support is not available worldwide with parts easily to get hold of.

Don't understand why they can't distribute their spares to ChainReaction, Jenson USA, Wiggle, etc so customers worldwide who already spent shedloads on these damn wheels in the first place can go online and order what they need to their front door. It's not hard is it?!...year 2016!
But noooo, CrankBrothers want you to send them off to get repaired or send them emails, find a LBS that deals with Crankbrothers then faff around with distributors until the supplies eventually turn up. Ridiculous.
So yeah, I currently have this wheelset in bits,collecting two years worth of dust as I've totally given up with the run around trying to get them rebuilt.
I was one of those guys that used to defend Crankbrothers when all the haters used to go "ooooh nooo, you've F'd up spending your money on Wankbrothers wheels". But I totally understand now.
  • 11 2
 Keiron, the future scarcity of parts was obvious when those wheels were released. If you want worldwide compatibility then you buy/build a wheel with J-bend spokes. I've had wheels with undrilled rims and wheels that needed gorilla tape and my tyres don't know the difference.
  • 5 0
 @keiron, we have a large distribution base throughout the world that stock our service parts and you can always order parts directly from us here in the US as we ship globally every day.

Please use this link to start the process:

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

In order to confirm the generation of your product, please upload a photo so we can make sure you will be getting the correct version parts.

Hope this helps, // Tim
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: what do mean, undrilled and tape?
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers:

I agree you do indeed have a worldwide distribution base that stock parts BUT my point is, it's a total stress just to get hold of them! For example, i bought my wheelset in the UK when i used to live there. I since moved abroad. But naive old me thought everything was ok as it's the European Union so I contacted Extra UK.
They had this can't do won't do approach. They basically said that they won't deal with warranties outside the UK. I'm pleading, "I'm not asking for a [God damn] warranty gratification of any kind!!!" I'm literally waving my debit card at these humans saying here take my money, in exchange for brand new spares, that is all!
But noooooo. They hurled some rubbish about trade issues and said they'd only deal with me if I came back to the UK but i still need to go through a local bike shop. Now if that isn't a slap in the face.....

As for where i live now and the surrounding nations, it's language barriers and all the craziness that comes with it. No reply to emails, phone calls don't get answered...just doesn't work.

Ordering from the US = My stuff sat in customs & when they finally deal with it, charges here and there. Stress.

My point being, you can't go online and just order stuff. Select, add to basket, BUY, delivery, front door. Boom. You get my money, I get my spares. It just can't be done.

I have worked in the industry for a couple of years so I do have some empathy with distribution & immediate stock availability woes; so with that being said, I'm not even expecting the likes of any popular online retailer to actually have these parts in stock, but at least for the parts to be listed & the ability to make a purchase transaction there and then which triggers a special order!

To be fair, i'm aware that it's the same issue with various factory wheelsets from other brands but obviously I'm passionate about this wheelset as I own them & genuinely did like them. Great performance, they looked great, easy to maintain and they lasted me 2 years of ALOT of riding in different locations around the world. I miss them sometimes!


I do feel like I've had my money's worth from the wheelset but I've truly given up, it's too much of a cat & mouse game in this day & age just get hold of a couple of rims & spokes, which is all I needed.
I can grab myself an E13 Factory wheelset and I can easily grab spares for them by ordering them through Chainreaction & various other online retailers, hassle free.
  • 13 0
 Well done today Crankbrothers. Good first step to restoring your rep. Of course, you will be judged on your products not your Pinkbike forum presence. It's also pretty clear that you probably won't get another chance, so let's hope that Highline is the slant six engine of the dropper post world. Amazingly, if you improve your products, mountain bikers seem to be a forgiving and adventuresome bunch, and at least some seem to be ready to give you another spin. I'm kind of pulling for you, can't say why. I guess I like redemption stories. Best luck guys.
  • 27 15
 What a joke and what terrible terrible form from Pinkbike. If ever there was evidence of Pinkbike showing on which side their bread is buttered, this was it.

Crank brothers has a market amongst the new to the sport and those who place value in form over function or those who simply don't ride hard. Their products have no place on a proper bike ridden by competent riders.

As if Kronolog owners, out of pocket for $300+.plus are going to forgive and forget. There should've been a class action for that one. You actually have a goddam nerve even showing faces here let alone expect us to 'leave the past in the past'.

Pinkbike, you are powerful enough to tell it like it is and not prostrate yourselves to likes of these junk merchants. You've REALLY done yourself a disservice on this one.

And my comment will gets deleted in 5...4....3...2...
  • 20 8
 @PinkBike Staff: Removing the article from the front page and deleting a bunch of (not really offensive IMHO) comments is very bad form. The upvote/downvote feature allows for self regulation of this section, which itself exists so people can express their opinions. This company has obviously let down many of their customers, it is only natural that they will express their disappointment given the chance.

Apparently, this does not fly with PB, and that is embarassing. If you can't put up with people's opinions about bike related products, why have a comment section at all? Please do the right thing and restore the deleted (non-offensive) comments. After all, Crank Brothers may actually benefit from some "constuctive" criticism.
  • 5 4
 Just as an aside, deleting non-questions or inflammatory comments is exactly what the description says will happen, so its not like they are hiding what they are doing here...
  • 13 2
 Wow what a shitshow of hate, never really understood the hate for CB on pinkbike. Sure, some valid criticism's for sure, and areas for improvement...which it really looks like you are absolutely trying to do right now. But the hate doesn't mesh with my experience at all.

Been riding CB pedals for over a decade. Of the 6 pairs I have purchased in that time period, I replaced my original Candy's with Eggbeaters once I realized the cage was superfluous, destroyed one Eggbeater in an absolutely massive collision with a very large and very unmoveable rock, and still ride the other 4 (3x eggbeaters/1x mallet) sets regularly. Very regularly. There was a brief 6 month period when I tried out SPD, and went right back to beaters.

I do not personally know even ONE person that has dropped using CB pedals due to quality issues in that entire time. But I have converted numerous people over to CB. One went back to SPD. The rest are all happily riding CB pedals still.

Yes, I get it, maybe your experience wasn't the same. But the anti-cb circlejerk is pathetic guys. And for a company that's been willing to try new things over and over, I've always been a huge fan of what CB has been trying to do, even if it hasn't always worked out.

I'm stoked for the changes CB has put in place. I'm confident they are working very hard to address the problems that are quite obviously well known to them as well. And I'm excited to see where this might go, what improvements lay ahead for products that are some of my personal favorites and most reliable pieces of gear I own.

TL/DR: You guys are a bunch of jaded jerks on here sometimes, but CrankBros, ignore the hate and I sincerely wish you the very best in your path for the future.
  • 5 0
 @waywardtraveller your comment means a lot to us, appreciated.
  • 13 2
 Jason,

Enve Composites has managed to attain an almost unassailable position as the brand within the industry possessing the perfect triad of branding image; exclusivity, desirability, performance. As is clearly evident from the comments here that is not an image that CB shares at present.

I would be interested to find out why you chose to work with CB after Enve, and in particular if CB are considering composite wheelsets / rims.
  • 12 0
 Orientdave,

Thanks for the thoughts on ENVE, it was truly a dream to have the opportunity to test my beliefs in combining an approach of product, marketing and company image/direction. I believe there was a culture created around the brand that involved every person in all aspects and it grew to be a unique and infectious community . . . this to me was the most rewarding thing. I would have never left there by choice, it was my baby and and the first parts were born in my kitchen oven!

As for CB I am surprised that I ended up at CB given the history as well. I started working with them as a consultant on a request of a good friend who owned a bike brand. After spending time with the ownership I gained an appreciation/friendship that I was implored to followed. The SR group as a whole has so much passion for the cycling culture and its community that I felt like I could take some of my beliefs I used to create ENVE and implement them here with full support. I was impressed that they had this huge challenge to over come and they weren't running away from it. I myself am a sucker for the challenge of doing something that people say "Can't be Done". Being able to change the markets perception of CB would be one of the things I would be proud to be part of.

Product wise we have brought some great product to market over the last year. We have also prioritized and focused on the warranty issues and improving the failure modes associated. Going forward it is our goal to move CB into several areas with some new innovative designs and materials and . . . yes, of course we will be playing in carbon . . . It's what I do!

Cheers, Jason
  • 13 2
 Please come up with a better way of tighten the pedal rather than the little plastic inserts, also like some adjustment for the tightness of the cage I always feel one pedal always comes lose first Many thanks
  • 1 0
 @jimmychoo401: For the current Mallet E Traction Pads, we looked at different materials in the development process. A metal pad would not work and a rubber style material was too soft and would press out when twisting your foot out of the pedal. This feature allows you to tighten the interface of the shoe pedal with a 2mm traction pad in case you feel the 1mm pad that comes installed isn’t tight enough. In regards to tightness of the cage, springs hold tension on our clip in mechanism. We are always looking to improving our products including both improving materials to improve consistency and to add features based on what our customers are asking for. Thanks // Andy
  • 14 4
 Got any tips for an aspiring engineer who wants to work in the bike industry? Should I be looking to get work experience specifically related to bikes or is it best to keep my doors open at this stage (just about to start a degree in Mechanical Eng in September)? Cheers
  • 15 2
 I'd probably say ask a company that values good engineering and mechanics above graphic design.
  • 11 1
 No question, but I just want to share an experience I had with CB regarding warranty.

Whilst out on the trails, I went off trail and slammed my Mallet 1 onto a big rock. Pedal body broke in half, but the wing assembly and spindle were still intact. I emailed CB and asked them whether it is covered by warranty. CSR told me they'll send me replacement parts. Me, being impatient, I bought Mallet 3s to replace the broken Mallet 1. I told CSR guy about it.

A few months later (I live in the Philippines, so shipping is a big PITA), I get a package from CB containing replacement parts for a Mallet 2 and included a pedal rebuild kit for the Mallet 3 that I currently am using. I was so stoked about them technically upgrading my Mallet 1 and this has made me a CB customer for life. I know it might seem like a very small deal, but where I'm from where most warranty claims are not honored or recognized, to me, it's a very big deal. So major props to the CB guys!

Friends have always told me that durability is not that great, but I just love the feel and mechanism of CB's clipless system. I've used the Mallet 3s for about 7 months now and still no issues. I just noticed that you have to be on top maintenance when it comes to their pedals. I inspect and do basic maintenance on my Mallet 3s every month or right after a wet/muddy ride. I know from friends that they really only service their pedals when they feel rough, which takes years.

As always, YMMV, but in my case, I just love the CB clipless system, so they have me sold on that for a very long time.
  • 6 1
 I may be missing the obvious, but slamming and breaking a pedal into a big rock is not a warranty issue, that is user error, its actually really nice customer service that they sent you the bits you needed.
  • 4 0
 @smuggly: I know. I knew it wouldn't be covered, but I took a chance and asked them if they will cover it with their warranty, and they said they will.
  • 3 0
 @riffscreamer , thank you for the feedback and glad we could help you out. Since I have been part of Crankbrothers we have strived to make sure riders are receiving the best service experience in the industry. As for your comments on maintenance, this is an area we attacked fully when developing our improved internals for the 2016 pedal line. The improved internals extend the maintenance requirements considerably and we no longer recommend installing rebuild kits on an annual basis, now only on an as needed basis. If your Mallet 3's still contain the older needle bearing and single seal, then please clean and re-grease timely until you can update them with a "Refresh Kit".

Thanks again, // Tim
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers: can you name another pedal company that makes and sells a "refresh kit"?
  • 1 0
 @unrooted: Fly bikes
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: My bad. I was sent the refresh kit, and not the rebuild kit.
  • 10 0
 Thanks for participating and sorry for all of the negative, small-minded haters firing cheap-shots across your bow instead of using this opportunity to encourage positive change on the part of CB moving into the future. Whats the easiest way to get our hands on your new dropper post to test before considering selling at our IBD? Despite past problems, we still have a majority of regional CX racers using your Egg Beaters - if you can improve the durability they should remain the go-to pedal platform each Fall in the mud. Good luck in the future.
  • 3 1
 @oldproracer

Thanks for the feedback and great to hear on the Eggbeaters. As you probably know, all of our 2016 clipless pedals have been upgraded with new bearings and an external seal, drastically improving the durability and now offering a 5-year warranty.

Please send us a PM so we can connect on a Highline Dropper Post for you and your team to test.

// Peter
  • 11 1
 Your mallet pedals feel nice. I vastly preferred the feel of them to shimano. However after two sets that were always getting swapped back and forward based upon which was working at the time/ away on warranty, I had to give up. Why has nothing changed in seven or so years? Why with all the money/ R&D potential your company seems to have can you not make a product that lasts more than 2 months out of the box?
  • 12 1
 Why did my first gen egg eaters last forever, but every other pedal you make only lasts a month before the bearings are trashed?

I don't think CB knows how little the real bike community hates their garbage.
  • 15 4
 To the CEO/coffee drinker/"thinker" - what the hell were you thinking exposing a company with a heavily damaged reputation to open public interrogation? What good could possibly come of this?
  • 15 1
 Are you not entertained?
  • 7 1
 Honestly, I actually think this is better than making no effort. Maybe this will prove that they suck, maybe this will prove that the marketplace has altogether lost too much faith in their products and regardless of what they say or do they aren't able to come back and regain consumer confidence, or maybe it will prove that the ownership changes and some directional changes have made for a differently run company, and they may be building in the right direction. The one thing we know for sure is if they did nothing, nothing was going to change at all...
  • 12 0
 @sinister28 I think that in personal and professional life you can choose to hide yourself from problems or you can choose to face problems and try to solve them. We worked very hard to change internals of our products to improve the durability, we worked to develop a solid dropper post and we listen other people that love mountain bike as we do. Myself and the company I am responsible for have decided not to hide. There are lots of consumers that love our brand, but instead than enjoying our fans, we are here facing some of those ones that didn't have positive experiences with our products in the past. I firmly believe that's the right way to go: stand in front of people that we didn't make happy and tell them what we are doing. If being honest and talking straight to the communitiy will be the wrong choice, there will probably be another Ceo, but I will be able to look myself at the mirror. The coffee drinker/thinker? I think it's a kind of stereotype of being Italian in an American company... //Gaspare
  • 13 2
 is the warranty department the highest paid department in the company? or just the department that gets the most traffic?
  • 12 4
 So, I guess we have to ask a honest/fair question here in order to NOT be deleted in this post, right?. Here is mine: How do you CB guys manage to be in business after producing and selling such a bunch of unreliable, break-prone, shity bicicle products for sooo many years? How do you do that? What is the trick? It is a honest entrepeneur question, I swear!
  • 2 1
 Marketing + OEM = @crankbrothers
  • 3 5
 @unrooted: Sure, but if CB are going to be credited for something is exactly that: Staying in business for so many years despite the terrible reputation they have created themselves by selling crap products to people. Most companies would be broke after doing that for so long. So, how do they do it?, How come are they still around here?!

I made the terrible mistake of buying a Jopling seat-post, a pair of Mallet peddals and a multi-tool a few years ago and all of it was in the garbage bin sooner that later. No freaking way I am going to believe they are changing for the good now.
  • 4 2
 @webermtb: easy, make stuff really cheap, high markup, sell your products to product managers to put on high end bikes and put a lot of money into advertising.

90% of mountain bikes don't get ridden. . .
  • 5 2
 @webermtb I take the question in a very constructive way. As we admitted we had some unhappy consumers because of the quality issues we already admitted today. The reason why we are in business is because there are several riders that love the functions of our products; secondly we always tried to do the best we can to take care of any issues our consumers had. //Gaspare
  • 2 12
flag webermtb (Jun 27, 2016 at 14:38) (Below Threshold)
 @crankbrothers: thanks for your answer. I'll pass your advice to some friends that are in the "old-school Chinese" product making style -so to speak-. I am sure they will save their arses and stay in business after following your advice and example guys...As for me...I am going Shimano from now on...
  • 8 0
 The term new owners has been thrown around quite a bit, yet according to press releases, the purchase was completed in 2008.

Why did it take Selle Royal Group so much time to clean house at Crank Brothers?

Also, why is it being plastered everywhere in this AMA as if it happened last year?

Furtheremore, what happened with the founders of CB, Andrew Herrick, Carl Winefordner and Frank Hermansen? Are they still contributors or just shareholders of SR?

Thanks and best of luck to the new team!
  • 6 0
 @rnayel Why did it take Selle Royal Group so much time to clean house at Crankbrothers? Lots of the times when a group acquires another company, the management stays in place for 5 more years as part of the deal. At the same time Sr Group wanted to learn the mountain bike culture and the people culture. We knew very well the lycra world not the baggy world! Carl W. and Frank H. still design products for us, whilst Andrew H. is not involved with us anymore, he is the Ceo at Intense.
Thanks a lot! //Gaspare
  • 9 1
 Why is there no demo program for pedals at bike shops? I am looking to buy new pedals, but don't want to take a $150 crap shot to know if I will like the feel or release. Ever consider a demo program?
  • 5 4
 Or just buy shimano.
  • 1 0
 @Moto4fun, we currently offer pedal demos at Sea Otter, Interbike Outdoor Demo, and Fall Cyclofest, as well as a number of smaller events we attend each year. But you're right, it would be great to offer demos through our dealers as well. We'll take this into consideration and see if we can implement this in the future. Thanks! // Kellen
  • 14 7
 Why do you spend 100x more hours on packaging than product? How is it you haven't gone out of business yet? Have you ever heard of beta testing, reliability engineering?

Seriously, I bet a friend $100 5 years ago you guys would be gone by now. Who the hell buys your shit anymore? 70% freehub failure rates. 4th attempt at a dropper post, would be funny if not so sad. How can you guys even look at yourself in the mirror in the morning.
  • 10 2
 Can you make your cleats out a more durable metal? like a more malleable steel, so it does not wear the pedals clamp. The Brass cleat just doest last.
  • 7 1
 Seriously, let's talk about the longevity of your cleats. I'm still on 10 year old pedals, back from when they were pretty reliable, and I can still get the Mallet M on eBay cheap, but the cleats don't last worth a shit. I've been buying counterfeit cleats off eBay from China for $7/pair, and they last longer than the OEM ones.

I like running the same cleat for road and MTB, but at the rate I'm destroying cleats, it just doesn't make sense anymore.
  • 6 1
 Maxyedor, Since being involved here we have been looking at the cleat closely. We are currently working on a few improvements that we will introduce as soon as they are proven. Cheers, Jason
  • 3 2
 @crankbrothers: what about making your pedals compatible with PROVEN cleats from shimano.
  • 10 2
 Are Mallet DH and Mallet E axles interchangeable? Mallet E is more along the lines of what I need but being a big guy I like the Q factor of Mallet DH.
  • 6 0
 Yeah all the spindles are interchangeable, I'm using Mallet DH spindles on Candy bodies to increase the q factor on a cross bike.
  • 3 1
 1/4" longer per side
  • 5 2
 @Kamba6: Shimano or time pedals are definitely going to be the options you don't have to think about, but a little maintenance goes a long way with crankbrothers. My mallets were feeling a little weird after a rainy ride (not having seen maintenance for a year), so in 15 minutes before a ride i pulled the bodies off the spindles, didn't even remove the pedals from cranks, cleaned, re-greased, and they are ready to rock again. eventually you have to replace the outboard cartridge bearing, but also not that hard, and the rebuilt kit includes tools. definitely not the pedals for everyone, but for me it's a good compromise for the float, performance, and lightweight.

i prefer the bushing based pedals rather than the needle bearing, and for 2016 all the higher-end needle bearing pedals have converted to their new fancy IGUS bushing and an extra seal, so that all seems like a win to me.
  • 3 1
 @b26-4-Life: I've been running DX pedals for 7 years now and only had to service them once in that time, so from that perspective they were great. I just think that CB mechanism allows for easier engagement. I have no issue with regular servicing. I do it on all other parts of the bike so adding one (two in this case) items to the list is no big deal.

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

I might just bite the bullet and get me some Mallet E's. Hell, even if they do turn out to be a bad buy it wont be the first time Iv'e thrown away a large sum of cash on a new shiny thing that doesn't work.
  • 3 0
 Yes, the spindles are interchangeable. We offer a long spindle kit if you prefer to run longer spindles (5mm longer per side) on your Mallet E. These can also be used in the complete range of Candy, Mallet, Eggbeater and Double Shot pedals. Also, we now offer a Mallet E that includes the long spindles, simply called the Mallet E LS. Those are in route to distributors at this time and should be available in July. //Andy
  • 10 4
 Seems like a lot of the comments were deleted from these threads. I have no pity for this company now. You don't get a reputation like the one they have for no reason. Maybe they should just have their warranty department and marketing answer the questions because it seems management and engineering can't do it right.
  • 5 0
 Hi, I have a 2013 Kronolog. It worked well until it didn’t, but after a warranty repair and a fair bit of fiddling it still pretty much does the job. The warranty people in Cal were patient and spent a respectable and appreciated amount of time with me on the phone, even though I am in Canada and I am supposed to call someone in Canada. I would love to give the Highline a try. Will there be an upgrade or possibly a straight trade?
  • 2 0
 @Carolynerickson Good to hear our customer service team was able to get you sorted out. If you send us a PM, we would be more than happy to help you out and make sure you have a great experience using the new Highline Dropper Post. // Peter
  • 7 2
 Please explain why after having your wheels twice and trashing them twice , and servicing them all the blooming while that I should buy into your brand again. Aesthetically everything looks great but I'm right on the fence now
  • 5 0
 @crankbrothers taking the hits with style and delivering counter punches better than Anderson Silva. I thought this was going to be a bloodbath. I have always run mallet's and loved them (durability aside). I am glad you have responded to the issues, and I hadn't just bought a Reverb Stealth I wouuld have loved to have a try on the Highline.
  • 5 1
 "the world’s finest dropper post" With the Highline:

that is a very large claim especially considering you don't offer very many applications. No external, no 27.2, no 100mm drop for short riders, no external options, no 150/170 options.

HOWEVER, with that said..... It does have some eye candy!
  • 5 0
 100 mm isn't just for short riders, remember there are freaks of nature like me who loom at at 6'2" but have a 30" inseam. I'm a reverse T-rex with a huge torso and wingspan but no legs. Long story short, my next dropper will probably be 10mm because my 125 barely works haha.
  • 2 0
 @moreberms: As Gaspare mentioned in another response, 100mm and 150mm are in testing. Once we’re completely confident in the results, those will be introduced as well. There is no doubt that these options are a must. 27.2 is also on the radar but as you know more difficult. Cheers // Andy
  • 9 1
 How on earth did the Kronolog dropper ever get released for sale?
  • 4 0
 @Zaeius I'd like to give you a straight answer about how did it happen, but I am going to talk only about what we did when we took over: 1) Stop to sell it 2) Renew the engineering team 3) Give the best service we can 4) Develop great products and avoid something like this ever happen again. //Gaspare
  • 1 2
 @crankbrothers: so what did happen?? If you'd like to give us a straight answer why not give us one? btw not a hater of crank bros, never owned anything CB except for handlebars so I can't really judge but one of my freinds talks a lot about how much he hates his Kronolog
  • 5 1
 Hopefully some questions are still answered - CB - Some issues seem to arise very quickly when parts are in use:

- If you have completed any real-world testing how are these issues not observed and corrected? Is your testing not 'real-world' enough or is it possible that prototype parts are made to higher tolerances than production?

- Are many of the ideas used in your products the result of you trying to just be different to existing options rather than having a sound engineering basis? - Change / Inovation for the sake of it rather than actual benefit?

Being an engineer myself and having a keen interest in cycling based products I can see the merit in the original mallet pedal - they did break the mould but it does seem that since then basic engineering principles have been over-ridden by cosmetic industrial design - Time to go back to basics and let engineering lead?

-
  • 7 0
 Racer951,

Your direction of questioning is correct and also explains my interest in being part of CB's future. I felt that taking the engineering aspect of the company back to basics and pairing it with the things they were doing well would create a unique opportunity. That being said, SR has made the commitment to a new R&D center in Utah that will have a full test lab as well as have immediate access to real world testing. I also have a group of testers I have used for many years that I trust and they live unique environments that find issues quickly. They will be part of the new testing culture moving forward.

Cheers, Jason
  • 5 1
 @Crankbrothers - Lots of negativity here, and I'm sorry to hear that. I'm not anywhere near as hardcore as lots of riders on PB. But I do ride a couple times a week, in the rocky mountains, I try really hard not to hit the pedals on the rocks though. I bought candies as my first set of clipless, primarily because I make an effort to support USA companies. I rode those for over 5 seasons before I broke a spring last year. I went out and bought another set of candies. I carry one of your multi-tool devices in my pack as well. I'm a crank brothers fan, and so far you have earned my business. thank you.
  • 6 1
 @crankbrothers: for 2017 can you release a 'clip less pedal' but call it/market it as a clipped in pedal? You know, do away with the old terminology and be the first brand to start calling them by what they actually are.
  • 4 1
 @blazekelly I agree with you terminology in bicycle is too complicated, I will give this challenge to our marketing team! Thanks for the input //gaspare
  • 6 1
 Just got some Mallet endure pedals and my size 9 shoe rubs on the crank arm. Why is the spindle so short on this pedal a size 9 is a pretty average shoe size.
  • 2 1
 I would like to know why the spindle is short, too!!!
  • 3 0
 I race downhill so I am very inclined to get your mallet dh but I have only heard great things about your mallet E. Also in a lot of cases I have heard people are much happier with the mallet E over the Dh. Do you suggest the mallet e over the mallet dh. Do you see yourself re designing the mallet dh any time soon?
  • 3 0
 @morrisgabriel: A big part of the choice is personal preference. Some like the larger platform of the Mallet DH along with the longer spindle and some like a slightly smaller platform and shorter Q-Factor. Also, shoe size can come into play. If you look at the WC riders, you’ll see both pedals. Danny Hart runs the Mallet E and Greg Minnaar runs the Mallet DH. Both I’m sure for various reasons. Personally, I like the DH for downhill and the Mallet E with the longer spindle for my trail bike. I also have a size 13 so that comes into play for me. The Mallet DH has been a great product for us but we’re always looking to the future to see what our riders and customers want and need in that pedal. Cheers // Andy
  • 6 1
 I've been running CB gear for a while now. I've beat the crap out of their products. Nothing but good things to say about them. Keep up the good work guys!
  • 4 1
 @crankbrothers
I guess I can address the whole team here, but maybe some perspective from Andy (since you've been with CB since 2006) or Kellen (coming from Fox) and Gaspare - It's pretty obvious you're speaking to a crowd of displeased individuals. Personally, I've been using CB pedals on and off since 2006 without any major issues, but clearly I'm in the minority.
The road back from a gaining a long-standing bad reputation for quality is generally difficult to impossible, and sometimes compelling new products can't do all that legwork - what is your plan, as an organization, to regain the trust of your (former) user and customer base, eliminate churn, and regain market share? Have you increased your test standards on your products, and how will you prevent these problems from coming up in the future? Do you attribute most of your failures to design issues or manufacturing and assembly in Taiwan? I understand nobody wan'ts to point fingers, but understanding your past failures can paint a really clear picture for improvement, and may shed some light to those in the community that CB is actually dedicated to improving their image in terms of reliability and performance.
  • 5 0
 @ijb2015: Thanks for your questions. Yes, we do have a reputation about quality which we have and are addressing with this new team. You seem to have had good experiences as have many others. Today is a step forward to try to hear everyone’s comments and answer as many questions as possible. Regaining trust will take some time but we’re committed to our product and brand and our actions moving forward will back that up.
In regards to testing, we opened a development center in Utah last year. The new team has focused their attention on improving current product as well as developing new products with extreme focus on testing. We have high standards when it comes to lab testing and more importantly we are using a wider group of testers from around the world and testing in the worst of conditions. Past problems can be attributed to a mix of factors but moving forward, when the product hits the market, it will be fully baked. // Andy
  • 3 0
 @ijb2105 The most important first step is to make quality and reliability a top priority -- to that end we've brought on new management and personnel, invested in opening a new R&D facility in Utah, expanded our QC team in Taiwan, and put in place more rigorous testing processes including laboratory and real-world ride testing in harsh conditions all over the world. The first outputs from from this new team and process are the revamped 2016 pedals with significantly improved bearings and sealing, and the highline dropper post. The positive long term reviews, anecdotal evidence from riders, and significantly reduced warranty rates all support that we've made big improvements and are moving in the right direction. We know we must continue on this path, and that it may take some time, to regain trust. // Kellen
  • 3 0
 Pedals have been less than stellar, but I can't say that about their other products. My multi-tool has been great for years. The Joplin 4-R was about average (hated the seat rail clamping mechanism). My old Iodine wheels were fantastic (even though I heard of many other riders' issues.)

Props to listening to your customers and putting yourselves out here. I hope you guys learn a lot from the comments in this AMA. Sounds like you guys really are on the right track, and want to create a better image for the CB brand!
  • 4 1
 @crankbrothers

How many beers are you guys going to have tonight to commiserate the beating you just took via this Q & A?

Props for facing the music, your stock has just gone up in my book. Hoping you make a successful come back!
  • 3 0
 @robmurray12 we had already yesterday night to be prepared for the Q&A...
  • 3 0
 SERIOUS QUESTION.

what do you guys, as the new owners of Crankbrothers feel is the best way to move forward with the negativity shown in this and other mountainbike forums? Do you accept that there are geniune and very, very serious problems marketing and production related which need a full about turn on to gather favour again within your only market, the mountain biking market?
  • 2 0
 @forkbrayker When we got in charge a couple of years ago, we knew that a major shift was needed in the way we engineer our products. We worked very hard in these past 2 years to improve substantially the way we develop products and the way we test them. Today we are talking this forum with a complete new range of pedals (that we launched at Eurobike) with new internal components, a new dropper post which we have been testing in different environment for the last 10 months and a solid range of wheels. We are accepting all the genuine criticism: our best answer to that is to listen, solve the issues of EVERY rider and develop great solid products. //Gaspare
  • 3 0
 Not sure if this question has been posted yet but-

Why are the crank brothers cleats made of brass rather than stainless steel???

...I'd prefer they didn't wear out so quick.
Btw, I have CB pedals on 3 of my bikes and love em.
  • 2 0
 When you have metal-on-metal contact, you must choose materials based on which component you want to wear: in this case, the cleat or the pedal. Stainless steel cleats would wear the wings (clip mechanism) on the pedals. We use brass for the cleats, as they are easier and cheaper to replace than the pedals themselves.

That being said, we are currently working on a few improvements to the cleats that we will introduce as soon as they are proven. // Kellen
  • 3 0
 came here to see the carnage, leaving impressed with the transparency and honesty of this new team at Crankbrothers. I will give you a guys a second chance and maybe have a CB product as a permanent fixture on one of my bikes.
  • 5 1
 I have the E Mallets which are the best pedals I've owned. The new design is spot on, confidence inspiring. Would you recommend a good service every 6 months? Any new developments to look forwards too? Cheers
  • 15 8
 Can u start making some better quality products??
  • 3 0
 @RedBurn From one Belgian to another, I've been with this company now just under 5 months and there are 2 words I've heard or read the most during my time here: quality and durability. We know where we come from and where we need to go, we take into account as much feedback from our users as we can (this forum is a nice example) and we put the greatest effort and time in making sure your experience with our products is top-notch. If you did have a negative experience with our product, please get in touch with our customer service team and we'll do our best to get you sorted out. //Peter
  • 4 1
 Can I just order a bunch of the cleats without the two circles on them? Seriously, I seem to use the non-two-circles cleats at about triple the rate of the two-circles ones. It's hugely annoying to have to keep buying pairs, when I only need one. I have a shit-ton of two-circles cleats floating around, and zero non-two-circles ones!
  • 4 2
 It's amazing how quickly CB clips wear out.... and I ride in the dry desert. Can't imagine how fast they'd wear out if I were riding in a wet/muddy climate. I understand the philosophy behind "wearing out the clip" rather than "wearing out the cage". But, for the price of their clips ($25!!), they should be using an alloy that lasts at least 2 or 3 times longer, and still not wear the cage. It seems safe to assume that CB's have the fastest wearing clip on the market.
  • 6 3
 Real talk, have you ever considered offering different spring tensions for your pedals? Mallets are pretty rad, fall apart less then HT's.. Not shimano reliable but they are second to none with mud shedding and easy of entry.. I just can't keep my damn feet in them..
  • 4 0
 @anthony3vans: Yes we have. In the current system, the spring is not easily interchangeable though. it takes some special tools to do so. We are looking at different ways to offer a type of spring or tension adjustment. Stay tuned. Cheers // Andy
  • 5 0
 I bought the e-mallet couple of weeks ago.
Now the inner cage thing is totally loosen...what to do?? warranty? or can I adjust it somehow?
  • 2 0
 @TonieMelonie we have wave washers installed between the wings to prevent side to side wing movement, it is possible these are missing. We would be happy to send you some, please use the link below for this request. In the mean time, this will only be noticed when you are not clipped in and will not impact performance.

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

If you are still having issues after the washers are installed, then we would be happy to assist with a warranty claim.

Thank you, // Tim
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: hey Tim, thx a lot for this info!
it's awesome seeing you guys doing this shit here! Props!
  • 3 0
 I legitimately want to know why someone should take a change on a Highline dropper. The #1 thing people complain about droppers in general is reliability, so I'd really like to know what the Highline does differently to address this. Is it serviceable by a consumer like a Reverb or does it need to be sent off only to Crankbothers to get serviced? I sold off my KS Lev since I didn't want to be forced to send it off instead of working on it myself; same thing for my DBInline and DBAir rear shock.
  • 3 0
 @matadorCE The Highline is conceived and built with the main purpose of being reliable. The hydraulic cartridge is self contained, so it makes for really easy servicing (No open-oil bath). You need a minimum set of tools to take the post apart and service it. We made no compromises when it comes to the components used in the Highline and we proudly back a 3-year warranty on it. // Peter
  • 3 0
 my 7 year old original iodines have never missed a beat local calderdale riding once a year to the alps...its the original freehub body that apparently exploded after the first ride but I honestly never had an issue ive just gone 650b and bought a set of cobalt 2,s they also have been great Joplin fell apart after 3 months mallets countless sent back to crc egg beaters don,t get my started but seriously I never had an issue with the wheels imo the only way to get people back on side is to first make a product that can survive more than the California dust then back that up with a long warranty ie 5 years
  • 7 4
 Currently running shimano XT pedals right now on my devinci Troy and they've been bombproof. Looking at replacing them down the road and just wondering why I should look at a crankbrothers pedal?
  • 2 0
 @shoby1998: If you do consider crankbrothers pedals down the road, take a look at the Mallet E. As we’ve discussed today, there has been a big improvement in the durability of our pedals with the change to Enduro and IGUS bearings, additional seals, better QC, and a focus on quality and durability. The performance of the pedal with a larger platform, adjustable pins, traction pads, easy entry and exit and great mud shedding should check all the boxes when you’re considering your next set of pedals. I hope you’ll give them a shot. Cheers // Andy
  • 2 0
 Hi there, I have a pair of mallet E's that I am selling. I have realised that the actual clip in part, the inside metal clip in part moves from side to side, quite a bit, don't have them with me but about 3+mm. Is this meant to happen? Doesn't happen with my Mallet DH's as much, happens a little bit. I have only used these pedals 4 times, is this meant to happen? Cheers
  • 1 0
 @oli99: Tim answered this earlier in another string. I've copied it here:

"we have wave washers installed between the wings to prevent side to side wing movement, it is possible these are missing. We would be happy to send you some, please use the link below for this request. In the mean time, this will only be noticed when you are not clipped in and will not impact performance.

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

If you are still having issues after the washers are installed, then we would be happy to assist with a warranty claim"
Cheers // Andy
  • 5 1
 I appear to be one of the happy customers, my Mallets are doing awesome even with little service, don't get the rant going on.
  • 5 3
 Here is a very open question to you RC. Why has this Q&A been removed from the front page? This has never happened before with any previous Q&A.. I can understand the removal of off-topic questions and abusive posts. But to remove the topic all together and claim "This is after all a Q&A" really questions your integrity as a journalist. How are people supposed to participate in a Q&A if they can't be online at 10:00 PST? Over to you RC.
  • 1 0
 This has happened before. Infact, I think it happened the last time with Loic. I remember looking for it while all the @Protour shitmstorm was going on and not being able to find it, then day of there it was again. These posts work their way back up when they are more relevant. Maybe I am too pie in the sky and there is some big conspiracy, but I doubt it...
  • 5 0
 Actual question here:
Is the rebuild kit for the new Mallet-E the same rebuild kit for the Mallet and Candy pedals?
  • 3 0
 @bcenduroseries, as long as you are referring to pedals made from 2010 on, the answer is yes. We have updated the kit and now refer to it as our "Refresh Kit" CB part # 16051. This contains all of the improved internals we now use on the 2016 version pedals including : Igus and Enduro bearings, and the double seal system. The link below will give you a few more details.

www.crankbrothers.com/product/view/560

Thanks and hope this helps, // Tim
  • 6 1
 Do you need a new customer service representative? If you do I would like to apply!
  • 2 0
 Hi,

I've bought a set of Crank Bros Mallet E pedals just last week.

Having used Shimano SPD's for 10+ years I am having difficulty adapting to the CB style. I can clip in fine but I am really struggling to clip out in a rush. On a short ride the other day I toppled over 3 times when I couldn't get my feet out in time.

Any advice on setup to prevent me toppling over and looking like an idiot?
  • 1 0
 You probably need the plastic shim/ spacer to push the cleat farther out.
  • 4 0
 @skill7: Sorry to hear you having a bit of trouble unclipping. The solution may be dependent on what shoe you are running and how deep the recessed cleat area is. I would check to see if you need to add a shim that comes with the cleats. You may even need 2 of them. If you’ve already done that, you may want to check if the pin height is too high and your shoe tread is sticking as you try to rotate out of the pedal. I’ve found I had to do both of these things with my most recent pair of shoes on Mallet E’s. // Andy
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers I gotta say that I was afraid to buy my Iodines for my old school Cro-Mo frame but after much deliberating, I made the switch and I have nothing else to say rather than I am happy... very much. Superlight and tough enough. I've been running them for over a year now and absolutely no problem at all. I guess everybody speaks from their experience and mine has been great so far with CB products and post sale client service. Not everything is bad comments. Cheers. Beer

Here's a pic of my bike.... www.pinkbike.com/photo/12261017
  • 2 0
 @smoranc Sergio, your bike is amazing, we love it.
  • 2 0
 Nice looking rig!
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers I've used Shimano cleats and pedals since I started riding, they've been a very fit and forget style of purchase. I have looked into getting Crank Brother pedals a few times (especially after my Five Ten Hellcats proved to have a much softer sole than expected and deformed over the Shimano trail cage styled pedals) but the big drawback is the difference in cleat compatibility. I have several pairs of riding shoe, all with well adjusted cleats and I can grab any pair and ride any bike in my garage. I love buying and riding new products, but what companies like HT have done with their cleat design makes it far easier for a customer to "jump ship" from brand to brand without consequence.

Is crankbrothers working on converting sales from their competitors products?
Are there patents you need to respect with regards to this kind of compatibility? Or what other hurdles exist from removing that barrier?
  • 2 1
 @zaff: People like yourself that have multiple bikes and shoes with one style clipless pedal system will always be harder to convert. It’s a big commitment to completely change over. Of course we would like to convert sales to crankbrothers products. We do in some cases and don’t in others. Hopefully we can offer enough features/benefits along with quality and durability to make it worth your consideration.
At the time the Eggbeater and this clipless system was designed, it was done to solve an issue (shed mud) and the founders tended to design product from the ground up rather than trying to take an existing product and change it somehow. The cleat system was proprietary and still is. Perhaps a universal cleat design could be an option in the future or potentially something else. Our team is working on a great deal of new products with quality and durability at the foundation. Cheers // Andy
  • 3 0
 Nice job CB on what could have been a complete PR slaughter, I like what I am reading and hope that CB can 'walk the talk'. Good luck, if you get it right you will have me returning as a customer.
  • 2 0
 Hi CB I have had issues with pedals in the past. However recently decided to give your stuff another go on the Mallet E pedals. Really impressed with them and then got some egg beaters as have got right back on the brand, buying tools etc. I have a rep for smashing any bike part. Just wanted to say I'm really happy with the new line up and your winning me and my mates over. Keep up the good work!
  • 4 2
 Wow!! CB has taken a shit beating! Well, I only ride CB, I have every single one of their peddles, yes, even the Egg beater and Candy 11. I've had a couple issues here and there but nothing major, I've been able to replace their inexpensive bearing kit in about 3 minutes. I've been on CB for many many years, I honestly don't know what all the complaining is about, if you don't like it, shut the F up and go with something else, I hate scram breaks, so I went with XTR, I didn't wine and cry on 15 different websites and blogs about scram. All my racing buddies use the Egg beater 11's and have never had a problem. I just got their new Endouro peddle and can't wait to try it out at Silverstar this weekend. That's my 2 cents Mike
  • 2 0
 I know I'm a little late to the comment section, I was once a die hard CrankBrothers fan, ran multiple products (iodine wheels 1st and 2nd generation, candy, mallet, 50/50 pedals, bars, stems, and lastly the kronolog)
I had multiple issues with the wheels, and seat post, but I will say hands down Tim's customer service sets the bar pretty high. Tim was always on top of every issue I ever had, and I was lucky enough to meet him in person at Sea Otter two years ago for my last CrankBrothers warranty on my kronolog, which by the way died again later that season and went straight to the crap bin. CrankBrothers is lucky to have a employee like Tim, and even though I will most likely never be a customer again, I will always say their customer service was always Great thanks to Tim !
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers after riding Shimano pedals for a few years, I made the switch mid 2014 to CB mallets at a DH race where my shimano's were clogging up with too much mud to ride. Since then I have loved the way they rode and the improved rock clearance over the old DXs. The last 2 seasons have been great with Hannah from Extra at all the BDS providing support for all riders using CB. Having my pedals serviced I'm confident that I can rely on them, you guys are doing a good job, keep up the good work!
  • 2 0
 Have you revised the Candy pedal so that the outer aluminum end "dust cap" isn't used to adjust excessive play between pedal body and spindle? Isn't this more suitable for the small hex nut under that same dust cap?
Thank you for helping me out in the past with my broken Eggbeaters.
  • 2 0
 One of my two Candy sets (least miles of the two and look new) I can remove both ends caps with zero play on the right pedal, but then I get exactly 4mm of movement from the pedal body sliding up and down the spindle from the left pedal. Both end hex nuts are tight and snug.
  • 2 0
 Hey crank brothers, I have always been a flat pedal rider but took on some advice to go clipped in. While racing the other day I found my non caged shimano xt pedals a nightmare to get back clipped in once my foot was out. Will your pedals give me that flat pedal support until I can get my foot back clipped in allowing me to get a couple of pedal strokes in and not losing time panicking trying to get back in?
  • 2 0
 Mallets absolutely do. Ride these on my single speed for this exact reason. Candy's, not so much.
  • 1 0
 @toop182: Our Mallet DH has a large platform with 8 adjustable pins on each side (or Mallet E & 3 w/ 6 pins per side). This provides some additional grip if you’re not able to clip back in immediately after unclipping through a rocky section or moto style berm. Also, the 4 sided entry on all of our clipless pedals allows for great mud shedding if you ride in those conditions. You can get in and out of these pedals easier than other styles of clipless pedals. // Andy
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: thank you for your reply, I think I will take the plunge
  • 7 2
 So Tim Young is Global Tech & Warranty Manager ? What's the split of his responsabilites? 5%/95% ?
  • 5 0
 @JDMEH, as you can see with the launch of the Highline Seatpost, we have been quite busy with the Tech side providing manuals and videos to assist riders with installation, maintenance, adjustments, troubleshooting etc, etc. The link below will take you to product care section on our website.

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/components/highline/highline

This is also the case with our new 2016 version pedals containing the Igus and Enduro bearings as well as the double seal system.

Based on the amount of engineering and testing we did on the new post and the pedals, your numbers are correct, just backwards Smile

// Tim
  • 8 2
 Simple question. What does quality mean to Crankbrothers?
  • 8 2
 What percentage of each of your products gets warrantied?
  • 3 0
 I am looking to buy one of your Long Spindle Kits (to give my Mallet E pedals a 57mm Q factor) in the UK and was wondering if you could tell me where to find them? Your website lists that you only ship to North America...
  • 3 0
 @euan91m The Long Spindle Kits are en route to our UK distributor and should become available to order by your local bike shop in July. // Peter
  • 3 1
 I like to thank CB for being one of my sponsors back when I raced all those years, and I still rocking my first generation mallets with only one rebuild on them with thousands of km's on them. Maybe I got lucky with some good ones. But a tension adjuster on the pedals would be nice so I don't have to file my cleats to my liking.
  • 2 0
 I love the pedal and have used them for years. No failures here, just a great feel from pedals that work in all kinds of conditions. They don't last forever, it's true. But if I want bricks with no float that never require maintenance and cleats that barely work in dust, (YRMV) there are other options.
  • 2 0
 i only have 2 suggestions/ questions. the pins in the mallet dh was there not a way to make those ins accessable from under the body (not having the hex in the top that inevitably gets mushroomed and hard to remove. and is there not a way to make your pedals adjustable for your tension. otherwise i am very stoked about the way they preform and the ease of getting into them. thanks AJ
  • 1 0
 @AJ20: The current Mallet DH and Mallet E have bolts right below where the pins are installed to hold the two halves of the body together. It’s not possible in the current design to install pins from the backside. For tension, our design doesn’t currently allow for this but our traction pads allow for some fine tuning of your pedals for the specific shoe you are using. Thanks for the comments on both of those topics, we’ll seriously consider them. Thanks // Andy
  • 2 0
 You guys have some of the coolest looking t-shirts.For instance your "into the hills t" looks rad. When I was in your store getting some pedals made a year ago you guys had a lot of great shirts then too. However only the oddball sizes like XXL were available and I was told it was because you guys usually make them for trade shows (at the time you guys were at sea otter 2015) and typically sell out so the store never really has good selection. Why don't you make them available through your store and website? Not just selling off unsold extras but actual inventory. I would like to pick some of the good ones up!
  • 1 0
 @litany: Our shop in Laguna is now stocked full of new men's and women's t-shirts and sweatshirts, in full size runs. We'll be adding the new items to the website in the next week or two. Keep an eye on the website, or sign up for our email newsletter to be notified when the t-shirts are available. Thanks! // Kellen
  • 8 3
 Can i please have some personalized Mallets Smile
  • 4 0
 Me too please! Smile I like my mallet 3's but I would like to try the mallet DH!
  • 1 0
 Customization is the future of the bike industry. We're doing everything we can to move in that direction Smile // Kellen
  • 3 2
 I had a set of CB bars once and they held up to a lot of DH abuse. Super cheap too, would buy again if they made a 35mm bar. Ok now for the question. Since you guys have a lot of experience making pedals, when you were developing the Highline were you able to draw on your experience with pedal internals and stuff and apply that to the Highline?
  • 2 1
 Actually, let me rephrase that: were you able to apply your experience with pedals to the development of the Highline (or any other droppers you have made)?
  • 7 4
 The only thing I have to say is AWESOME! this guys are the best at customer service. I'm really happy with the turn around of my seat post. Thank you!
  • 4 3
 Meaning the seat post turns around and around and around.. sounds useless
  • 3 2
 @weebleswobbles: My Joplin used to do that.
  • 3 1
 How do you enter an already crowded dropper post market thinking that you'll be able to beat the rest of the completion? And what was your priority when designing it that made it better than the rest?
  • 2 1
 Why should I trust your new "Redesigned" pedal. I have tried egg beaters, acids (the worst), malets, and 5050s. All of them have fallen apart as soon as they touch a rock or got wet. Granted they felt good when they worked. Your reputation is so bad that when I worked at a bike shop my boss told me to refuse to sell the pedals we had on the shelf and refer X brand. What are your plans to re-instill trust in your brand... a trade in program?
  • 2 0
 is it possible to produce cleats which last longer? I need to change my cleats at least once every season on both pair of shoes, XC and Enduro. Costs quite a bit of money every year...
  • 1 0
 This is my third DH mallet pedal that dramatically failed just by comming off the spindle.. my last pair is no more then 9 months old ! ?
I'm I eligible for some sort of warranty? If yes how should I proceed I'm in Montreal, Canada. Thanks!
  • 2 1
 What durability testing do you perform before taking a product to market? Approximately how many iterations of product occur before a product reaches market? What is the life expectancy of properly maintained bushings in the Candy/eggbeater lineup?
  • 2 0
 Hey guys, where can I get replacement bolts to hold the covers(sliding pieces) on 50 50 pedals?

When looking for rebuild kits they only come with bushings it seems but one plate fell off my pedals rendering them useless
  • 1 1
 @billnado: You can go through LTP Sports through your local Canadian Dealer or email us at smallparts@crankbrothers.com and we'll send some out to you. cheers // Andy
  • 1 1
 @billnado we are happy to help. We have a form on our website that you can fill out to make this request. Please use the link below to order your replacement bolts and yes, they are free of charge Smile . Please include a photo if possible so we can verify the version and generation.

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

Thanks, // Tim
  • 1 0
 I have a pair of the Mallet DH pedals and I love them, until its muddy or dirt is sticking to the cleat. Then for some reason the pedals won't clip in at all. I had shimano before and they would clip in during muddy sloppy days, but with the mallets it seems they won't clip in at all. Is there something I can do to fix this problem?
Thanks
Ben
  • 1 0
 @brownpow: This is a bit odd. Typically the Mallet DH's performance is highlighted in the mud. You may want to check your cleats. If the cleat box on your shoe is deep enough and you're not using spacers, the cleat may not be engaging all the way into the wings. If this is the case, when there is mud building up on the platform and wings, it will exaggerate the issue. Try adding another spacer under your cleat and see if that gets 'er done. If not, give us a call or email james@crankbrothers.com (our pedal tech) and we'll trouble shoot it some more. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers I have mallet 3 pedals and I was recently trying to find the PDF manual of them. I find it hard to navigate your site and find old archived things. Is there an easy way to search for archived manuals and products? Also, is there a way I can get an easier engagement to un-clip? I am learning to ride clipped and I'd feel more at ease if I could twist my heel at like 5 degrees to clip out. I will stop by the store in Laguna to drop if off as well if that is an option!
  • 2 0
 @vsong , please contact our pedal technician James at james@crankbrothers.com. He can assist you with technical needs although if you have older, pre-2010 version pedals, we may be limited as to what we can provide. James can also assist with recommendations on setup to achieve an easier release. Our cleats can be installed with a 15 or 20 degree release angle, but the cleat can be adjusted onto the shoe so that the release is faster as you requested. If you can stop by our retail store at 580 Broadway with your bike, pedals and shoes, that would be optimal, and one of our technicians will personally see that you are comfortable with your setup and use of the pedals.

Thank you, // Tim
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: Sweet thanks for the reply! Next time I am in Laguna I will bring it all in!
  • 2 1
 I have run the Mallet DH in the past and did enjoy it, however now i run the shimano system and find i really prefer the "solid" feeling i get while clipping in or out of the pedal. I found on the mallets that i had hard time knowing how far i could move my foot before i would clip out, and multiple times i would pop out hitting a corner fast or i would become uncliiped without knowing. Is there something that can be done that? On the shimano i find if i tighten the tension system i like the pedal a lot better and was just curious if thats something that can be done on the cb pedals. Cheers!
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers I have some 5050xx pedals(the older style with 3 body parts). The bolts to hold one of the pieces have managed to rattle out with riding. So now one piece is just loose. I'm afraid to borrow a bolt from another plate as two bolts weren't enough to hold it first time around. Where can i get a set of new bolts to hold the plates?
  • 1 0
 My problem is that the little bolts are too soft and have rounded out. Now I can't replace my pedal pins. Frown
  • 1 0
 @billnado , no problem, we make this very easy for you. Simply fill out our online form (see link below) and upload a photo of your pedals so we can verify the year model and version. Once received we will drop the parts in the mail. That easy! Canada? Again, no problem Smile

www.crankbrothers.com/product-care/small-parts

Cheers, //Tim
  • 1 0
 How do you replace the 2mm riser pads on mallet e? getting them out is pretty easy but putting new ones in seems unpossible without modifying the two little nipples that sit inside the little slots. Also the instructions that come with the pedals are pretty lame and weird.
  • 1 0
 I can't understand the pictures of how the cleats are supposed to interface with the eggbeater part in the instructions. A couple of words would be helpful.
  • 1 0
 @budgreen: Here is the PDF of the instructions on installing the traction pads. You may want to pull the spindle out and it may give you a little better leverage on it. If you're still having problems, give us a call and our guys will walk you through live on the phone. www.crankbrothers.com/data/media/original/Mallet%20E_Traction%20Pad%20-1.pdf
cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 This is my third DH mallet pedal that dramatically failed just by comming off the spindle.. my last pair is no more then 9 months old ! ?
I'm I eligible for some sort of warranty? If yes how should I proceed I'm in Montreal, Canada. Thanks!
  • 1 0
 @Pinkxello sorry to hear about this experience and yes, we would cover this under warranty. We have several options available for you but need to get some more information first. Please send your contact information to our pedal tech James at james@crankbrothers.com so we can begin the support process.

Thank you, // Tim
  • 5 4
 Funny how all these fan boys are complaining when most of their Worldcup downhill and enduro heros are shredding on Crankbrothers. News flash, They are getting tested by the best mountain bike athletes in the world. I currently have the Mallet E's and Candys with Enduro bearings and they have been stellar. Meanwhile my friend with XTR pedals has cracked two sets at the spindle. Everybody forgets these components have the toughest job to do and usually in crappy environments.
  • 1 0
 I really want to like and ride CBs products. I HAD to simply walk (limp?) away from my bad pedal experiences. I've not purchased another CB product since. Having said that, I'll pay close attention to new product feedback. I want to support a company like CB, but not at the expense of crashing my brains out due to product failures. Good luck. I hope you can win me back.
  • 1 0
 @algs911 We hope we can win you back, too. //Gaspare
  • 1 0
 I get that people don't like crap being sold to them. As a typical rider, I have to be pretty select at squeezing the most out of my money for parts that don't die within weeks of getting them. That said, this forum is filled with angry comments that serve nothing more than preaching what any CB forum would show you: That CB has a lot to make up for. But it seems that they're trying and changing the engineering process doesn't happen as fast as firing/hiring new staff.
My experience with CB pedals are limited.
I bought Mallet DH's as I couldn't get any pedals that were large enough that would clear the wet mud filled with forest gunk that is typical of the West Coast of BC. The Mallets have lasted 2 1/2 years of my 250+lbs pounding them. That includes regular trips to Whistler Bike Park. Only replaced pins and the bushings kit once. Overall they've been better than hoped for.
That said, better quality material for the cleats is needed. At $25/pop they're hard to swallow. That question was asked above and hopefully will be considered by CB.
I will stick with CB pedals as the system allows for more comfortable miles on my cranky knees/hips with the greater float.
Would I try other CB products? We'll see. But if they start holding up as well as my first try, I'm willing to try.
  • 1 0
 @twelvegayger: In regards to the cleat comment, we are studying the metal options we have for cleats and how they wear with the wings of our pedals. Increasing the lifespan of our cleats is a necessary improvement and it’s being worked on. Thanks much for your feedback. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 250+! Maybe we need to get you on the test team!

Cheers, Jason
  • 1 0
 I ride CB pedals, but the 15 degrees and 20 degrees cleats are too much of an angle for my non dominant foot.
Will you guys come out with anything that is easier to un-clip, maybe like 10 degrees?
Maybe 15 degrees for my right foot and 10 degrees for my lift foot.
Any plans for something like this? I think many riders would love it.
  • 3 0
 @abzillah: We are currently working on some other cleat options such as what you’re describing here. Once we are through testing and have positive results, we’ll decide to move forward or not. Thanks for the feedback. // Andy
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers i have recently changed my cleats because they kept unclipping accidentally , the new cleats still unclipp a lot accidentally and feel like they have way to much float . Would a new set of dh mallets fix this ???
  • 1 0
 @Oliverkaard: what model and level do you have and how old are they? If you feel you need to send them in for us to take care of, please visit:
www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket

and create a ticket. We can take a look and find a solution for you. Cheers // Andy
  • 2 1
 @crankbrothers : Personally I love your pedals! I have them on all my mountain bikes (Except for my dirt jumper) and I am wondering how long until I will be able to get a set to put on my roadie? I don't really want to put on the Eggbeater 11's (Even though they're super light) because I don't trust that they are strong enough, but then again, I have not tried them out. My roadie shoes have the standard 3 bolt cleat system on the bottom.

What can you recommend I use?

Thanks guys, keep up the good work!
  • 2 1
 @lewis-denver: If you do want to run your EB's on your road bike, we make a 3 hole adapter cleat. It's our standard cleat mounted onto a 3 hole patter plate that can bolt to your shoe. You're local dealer should have access to these through our Australian Distributor. If not, please contact us at info@crankbrothers.com and we'll see what we can do for you. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 I had no idea. Thanks
  • 3 0
 Love your pedals. Had several pairs and never any issues. Riding the mallet E pedals now and they are the best I ever had! Keep it up!!! Thank you!!!
  • 1 0
 How tall is the collar section of the the dropper post? I'm currently riding a size M 2013 enduro with a cheap mechanical dropper post. Somehow I managed to dislocate my thumb trying to push the damn lever so the things gotta go. Problem is every hydro post I have seen so far will not drop as low as my mechanical post... and most mechanical posts seem to have the same stiff lever issue as my current no name unit... which personally I find sits to high as is. Does your post drop lower than the reverb?
  • 1 0
 @TieMyShoe, Max insertion into the frame is 285mm, measured from the bottom of the collar down to the base of the adjuster. At max insertion the measurement of the post coming up out of the seat tube is 172mm; measured from the bottom of the collar up to the seat clamp area. // Kellen
  • 6 1
 They're all smiling in now!!
  • 3 1
 Your old headset was the lowest stack headset on the market. I still have mine from years ago and many people require it - I know I do. Could you bring it back? They'll sell for years to come.
  • 2 1
 Question: Crank Brothers has a distinct look to all their products. During the early days when you were identifying the aesthetic and ID of your brand what objects or brands did you draw influence from? Do you have a design mantra or set of rules that you apply when creating new products?
  • 1 0
 The majority design tone and influence came from the mind of the founder Frank Hermansen. He has a very unique ability to pair his love for the bike with his own inner vibe that he has stayed true too from the start. Cheers, Jason
  • 3 2
 Did you ever though about using a kaizen diagram (or a fishbone one if kaizen is too much for you guys to understand) to find out where in your production line that little magic of crapness is hapenning to solve the problems once and for all on realiability?
  • 1 0
 Are different spring tensions available for the Mallet pedals, unlike your competitors spring retention isn't adjustable, just cleat float. I like the ease of entry and ability to shed mud, but can't keep my feet in them. Thanks
  • 1 0
 Will the new dropper be user serviceable and with easy supply of spares and info like rs? Do you take that sort of thing into consideration when coming up with new stuff. Or do you prefer a one time use approach like Thomson
  • 2 0
 @markg1150: Yes, the Highline is completely user friendly when it comes to service. CB services all of the US directly and in each country, our distributors support the product completely as well with all service parts for all products including the Highline. The self-contained hydraulic cartridge which has a 3 year warranty can be easily replaced if anything went wrong. The base cap and cartridge is offered as one complete unit which allows the consumer or dealer to simply unthread the cartridge, remove and replace with a new one. Literally a 5 minute job. We’ve tried to design the product to be simple, durable and user friendly. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers when are you going to update the mallet so it's not held together with a plastic grub screw, 1 bearing and doesn't fall apart after a smal amount of riding time. I feel like they are the perfect pedal but the reliability is awful
  • 1 0
 @bikerboywill: The 2016 pedal range that we launched last year have completely updated internals. All pedals and all models were updated. We are using Enduro bearings on the outboard side of the pedals and IGUS bearings on the inboard side of the pedals. Additionally we’ve added an external seal over the double lip seal to keep contaminants out. I hope that you can give the new pedals another run. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 Hi. In your original 5050 pedal, when I pull out the plastic endcap, there is a nut inside that I need a long socket to reach. It looks to be about 11mm. Can you confirm so I can buy the right socket? I need to replace the bearings.Thanks!
  • 3 0
 Will there ever be a cheaper mallet e pedal like there is with the regular mallet pedals
  • 1 0
 @lucas20-p: As with everything, technologies trickle down to lower priced products within the line. That would be the future goal for sure. Cheers // Andy
  • 7 4
 CB is the best i have only had 7 joplins arrive at my house because there are ISSUES with the amazing product.
  • 1 1
 Will the mallets ever have more color options like the candy and eggbeater? Some gold or green mallet dh would be sick. Also could you find a way to reverse the pins on the mallets so that the head of the pin is not the part taking a beating? Makes it very difficult to extract broken or smashed in pins. Other than that great pedals
  • 3 2
 My mallets took a pooh last year and I have given up on them. Can you help me out? I still have them, I just come unclipped randomly so I've been nervous to use them since then. Now is your time to show me you care.
  • 2 0
 @wcjrush, we are here to help. There can be several reasons for unclipping prematurely, including worn cleats, worn wing springs, and shoe sole interference. In order to assist you further we will need some additional information from you. Please fill out a Return Authorization request via the link below and refer to the Pinkbike AMA forum in your notes and include a photo of your pedals if possible. Our pedal technician James will then contact you to discuss your options.

www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket

Thank you, // Tim
  • 2 0
 @wcjrush: Sorry to hear that. If you can create a RA through the link below, we can take a look and get these sorted out for you. www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket
cheers // Andy
  • 2 1
 What do you think about the HT components line up do you think they are any good? And since they've been discovered have you noticed a drop in your sales due to the competition?
Cheers
  • 2 0
 @joykemp we didn't see drop in sales since they've been in business, probably because their clipping system is completely different than ours, we offer substantial benefit for mud shedding, 4 side entry, traction pad technology to tune the interface between pedal and shoe..
  • 1 1
 During a recent weekend - I installed brand new DH mallets, wore brand new Giro Chamber shoes, with brand new cleats and for the life of could not stay clipped in. I tried with the shim and without. I kept the cleats at 15 degrees because it's never let me down before.

This is a set up I've been running for 2 years and I've never experienced pedal blow out this badly.

What am I doing wrong?
  • 2 0
 @bobsten: It seems like Tim has seen this before with a couple different shoe models. The cleat box of the shoe is deep enough that with one shim the cleat is not fully engaged in the wing. you'll likely need to add an extra shim and you should be good to go. we can send you out some extra shims and longer cleat screws if needed. Just send a request to smallparts@crankbrothers.com with your address and we'll send some out. Cheers, // Andy
  • 2 2
 got suckered into a cobalt seatpost because of the neat packaging. couldn't undo the clamp for the life of me and realized the circlips that made sure the clamping bolt works were missing. i had better QC with knock off China goods ffs
  • 3 2
 Just dish your products out to average jo weekend warriors to smash the Nutts out of your products, and get honest feedback and input off the people your expecting to sell to. Shit looks good. But you can't Polish a turd.
  • 1 1
 actually, as evidence, you can. cause they make a lot of bright, shiny shit
  • 1 1
 Question about your engineering staff: what degrees do they have. I ask because I've talked with some companies whose designers don't have any formal education, just lots of cad and fea experience. Currently a mechanical engineering student, so trying to feel out what the cycling industry looks for in their engineers to see if it's a route I'd want to go down
  • 2 0
 I have worked with both industrial design guys as well as mechanical engineers. If I could be so bold as to suggest, work in the engineering field outside of bike and then find your way back. You will have a stronger organizational structure and approach which I have found extremely helpful in my past as an employer. Your bike knowledge should come from riding and working on bikes and that will give you all the authenticity you need! Cheers, Jason
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: thanks! That's sounding more and more like the ideal route! Good job taking on the questions here, best of luck to you all!
  • 3 2
 When you decided to have this "ask us anything" session did you expect to get this level of negative feedback? Are you using this experience to further improve your design ethics and standards?
  • 3 0
 Yes, we understand the history of the products CB has offered. We also wanted a direct line to the public in hopes they might understand who we are, the work we have done and where we plan to take CB in the future. Cheers, Jason
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers: Thanks Jason. I've only had limited experiences with CB products but my most recent purchase (Mallet E) has been very positive.

It's good to know you're listening and striving to improve. Opening a free forum with potentially unruly/dissatisfied internet warriors is a brave move. I admire your courage and commitment.

Can you send my some CB leg tattoos and schwag? I race, I'm fast. Smile

Msg me here for an address.
  • 2 1
 I have a lot of CB products but missing CB cranks and chainguide. Any plans for such products?
Any plans to restart with Iodine 11 group, missing it Frown
What about Opium 11?

PS Yes, need more carbon.
  • 1 0
 @Verona: No current plan for cranks and chainguides. As you may have noticed, we have a guy that's pretty well versed in carbon products so you will likely see some carbon bits in the future. cheers // Andy
  • 4 0
 is the company going to stay in laguna beach?
  • 3 1
 @christopheryang The R&D management changed and has been moved to Ogden, Utah, where we will have our own prototyping and testing machines whilst all the other functions of the company will remain in Laguna Bach. // Gaspare
  • 4 0
 What ever happened to Crank Sisters? CB products designed for women?
  • 1 0
 We create products for all riders, men and women.

Specific options for smaller riders include the Mallet E and Stamp Small pedals. Some of the World Cup DH racers (ex: Tahnee Seagrave) prefer the smaller platform and more narrow q-factor of the Mallet E over the Mallet DH. The Stamp Small offers an optimized pedal platform for smaller feet.
// Kellen
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers

The mallett DH has been a great pedal for me, is it possible to rebuild a pre 2016 Mallet DH pedal with the bearings in the new models?


If you ever want an East Coast US product tester sign me up
  • 1 0
 @snotrocket: Yes, our "refresh kit" will retrofit any crankbrothers Eggbeater, Candy, Mallet or 5050 pedal, 2010 model to present. It includes the new Enduro and Igus bearing along with seals, nuts, end caps. cheers // Andy
  • 2 1
 @crankbrothers

What would be a cheep set of clip pedals that i could buy that would be good for my BMX racing? love your work and cant wait to see your improvements! Thanks! Jacob.
  • 1 1
 Hi Jacob. There are many BMX racers that use our mallet or mallet E pedals. The mallet 2 starts at $95 www.crankbrothers.com/product/mallet-2-new

// Kellen
  • 2 0
 I see where these guys are coming from...but by the sound of it CB are making changes and working hard for the furture of the company.
  • 2 0
 What's your view on the industry's move towards consumer direct sales? How are IBD's and Online retailers supposed to differentiate themselves without violating MAP policy?
  • 3 0
 @christopheryang I do acknowledge the fact that the market place is changing rapidly and it is my belief Crankbrothers has to evolve too in its sales approach. One of my personal challenges within the company is to create a balanced playing field for all players in the market with a single purpose and that is to make our products accessible to all end-users across the world within the MAP framework. Specifically for Crankbrothers, IBD's will always be able to differentiate themselves because of the knowledge and experience they can offer to consumers on our technical products.//Peter
  • 1 0
 How does the continued proliferation of new standards pushed by the 'big players' affect your ability as a small company to adapt, innovate, and continue to support your existing product line and network of distributors?
  • 3 0
 @biggerted That's a long conversation, hope to have in person one day. I'm going to answer in the best way I can: it's getting more challenging in certain categories, as wheels where standards change every year, and I think in this specific category is getting more challenging for everybody, consumers included. Pedals, dropper posts, tools and pumps instead standards are evolving, but in a more "organic" way, letting the time for everybody to "digest" these evolutions. //Gaspare
  • 1 0
 I think it's pretty simple. If CB really wants to be accountable then they would offer their new improved products at 50% off to all those who had issues with the "old company" stuff.
  • 1 0
 @RollinFoSho We always have and always will keep an ear out for people that have a poor experience with our products. If your claim is valid, please address it to our customer service team and an upgrade to a new product could be one of the solutions. // Peter
  • 1 1
 Does you new pedal design use a open frame needle bearing? The old design is very prone to failure due to contaminates entering needle bearing. The pros of the needle bearing were clearly spacing but at a cost of a full rebuild every 6 months. The sealed bearing were undersized and prone to failure. Several complaints listed above with catastrophic failures.
  • 1 1
 I purchased a Kronolog and the post has been nothing but trouble.
I want to upgrade to the new one.
Do you have any sort of a program that addresses things like this?
The new one looks good but the price is out of my reach.
Thanks.
  • 3 1
 Question: Outside of CAD finite element analysis, how does CB test it's products for strength and longevity? What type of real world testing do you employ, if any?
  • 1 0
 The testing for CB has gone under heavy revision. We are currently setting up a full testing lab in Utah, it will be accompanied by a proven testing group or riders in abusive environments around the globe. As for software we are a Solidworks group and have done some work with out of house sim groups. Cheers, Jason
  • 4 0
 Spend less on packaging and more on R&D
  • 2 0
 @Dobba84 We are spending the same on packaging, a lot more on R&D. Ask Jason... //Gaspare
  • 3 0
 . Why the plastic cap for servicing at the end of my mallet DH ? its ' fragile " why is it not an alu ?
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers

been wondering this aswell. I have to keep loose change in my tool box to remove these end caps, why not just use a allen head piece?
  • 1 0
 @bonowanabe @snotrocket: All 2016 Mallet DH, Mallet E, Candy 3, Candy 7, Candy 11, Eggbeater 3, Eggbeater 11 pedals now include an alloy endcap.

Additionally, our new pedal 'refresh kit' includes the hex alloy endcaps, along with the upgraded enduro and igus bearings, and internal/external seals. Retrofittable to all pedals from 2010-present: www.crankbrothers.com/product/view/560

// Kellen
  • 1 1
 The acid pedals were probably the best pedals ive had i mean yes the broke on me and hardly lasted for six months but I loved the idea behind them the solid bit meant I could hold my foot on the pedal without being cliped in on sketchy parts but hte smaller surface meant I did not had to worry on single tracks of the pedal hittin the sort of berm (you know what im talking about) on the sides. The candy is just not enough for agresive trail riding and the mallets feel like too much specially on uphills.

So any thoughts of bringing back the acid pedals or something like it?
  • 1 0
 CB has a pedal similar to what you are describing. It is their newest pedal called the Double Shot.
  • 1 0
 @niliusw: half flat half clip thats different to what im referring.
  • 1 2
 @fercho25: It sounds like the Mallet E would meet your needs. 419g/pair. Same width from the crank arm as the acid (same clearance), with chamfered edges, concave platform, better grip, and traction pads for customizable shoe/pedal interface. www.crankbrothers.com/product/mallet-E

That being said, we're innovating all the time. There will be more pedals to come in the future. // Kellen
  • 1 0
 I like how all three of my comments have been deleted and were not even half as negative as some on here but those remain that are not even questions . Interesting. I guess I should just be rude and my comment will stay?
  • 5 3
 Release angle 15 degrees is too much for me. I hurt my knee. Why not a easier release for xc?
  • 1 0
 @steve1979: We do have a cleat called the zero float cleat that essentially reduces the 6 degrees of float to 0. The release angle will still be 15 or 20 depending how you set up your cleats but the release will start earlier when you start twisting your foot to exit. This may be helpful. With our standard premium cleat, you can fine tune the cleat placement to change the release angle but this will take some trial and error for you to get it just right. At the same time, we're looking at additional cleat options to address needs like yours. When fully tested and validated, we will move forward with those. Cheers // Andy
  • 3 0
 I have the red 1s they work great!
  • 4 1
 Can you guys make another crankset please?
  • 7 5
 I've never owned CB products, and based off of this AMA, I never will. Can you give me any reason to try your stuff?
  • 1 2
 If I buy a mallet dh and your cleats to match (I think that's the premium ones). If I ride for about 3-6 every week or sometimes (rarely) 8-10 hours how often should I replace me cleats. I ask this because I really would like a pair of mallets but I see since your cleats are brass they wear a bit quicker than my shimanos.
  • 6 3
 how many engineers/designers do you have working there?
  • 2 5
 why the down votes this is a genuine question from an interested fan of CB
  • 2 0
 We have 5 engineers and 3 designers as of now, the new SR56 facility will be adding a few more engineers and a few techs. Cheers, Jason
  • 1 0
 Is there any difference between Mallet DH 2015 and 2016 version and when (if) Mallet E will be availabe with same axle lenght as mallet DH? Thanks
  • 1 0
 @jure The Mallet DH 2016 has received new internals versus the 2015 model (similar to all other clipless pedals in our range). On the outboard side, we now use Enduro bearings and IGUS bearings on the inboard side of the pedals. On top of that we've added an external seal to the double-lip internal seal. The new Mallet E LS (Long Spindle - 57mm, similar to the Mallet DH Spindle) is shipping to all distributors as we speak and should become available very shortly. You also have the option of a Long Spindle kit to upgrade your current Mallet E pedals. // Peter
  • 1 1
 The Cobalt 11 bars are one of the best biking products I've ever bought, and the Iodines I had were also excellent. Do you think you'll ever make a product with moving parts that actually works?
  • 2 1
 ok; totally serious question: have you ever considered hiring a quality engineer? You know, like every other company that makes things has, but you guys obviously do not?
  • 1 0
 When I got to CB we started reorganized the QC dept. as a whole. I would think the benefits of those changes will continue to become more apparent over time. Cheers, Jason
  • 3 0
 I cranked my shit to 11 and broke the knob off years ago! Best-Pedals-Ever
  • 2 0
 Would you consider spending less money sponsoring World Cup DH riders in order to develop pedals that are more reliable?
  • 1 1
 Most World Cup DH racers ride our pedals by choice, not for money. You'll notice a number of top World Cup racers who are sponsored by competing brands, who are using our pedals on race day. I think that says enough. // Kellen
  • 2 1
 Recently purchased a pair of Mallet E pedals, which leads me to my question. Are there any plans to indroduce adjustable spring tension on your SPD pedal range?
  • 2 0
 @pioneer68: It’s a reoccurring theme that we are considering and looking at. It won’t be in the near future but again, we have a great new team with a lot of great ideas. Let’s see what happens. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 I am looking at getting a Highline dropper post, but have had a tough time finding the post length at max insertion. Can you help with this?
  • 1 0
 @Amorfis: Max insertion into the frame is 285mm, measured from the bottom of the collar down to the base of the adjuster. At max insertion the measurement of the post coming out of the seat tube is 172mm; measured from the bottom of the collar up to the seat clamp area. // Kellen
  • 2 0
 Are you guys ever going to have a bigger line of products like grips, chains, handlebars, chainrings, chain guides etc.
  • 1 0
 We already offer grips, bars, stems, and seatposts: www.crankbrothers.com/category/components
As well as pumps and tools: www.crankbrothers.com/category/tools-pumps

In regards to future products, we are focusing on product categories where we can introduce true innovation through design, engineering, and materials.

// Kellen
  • 1 1
 I have a box of broken CB pedals and a seatpost that came back from "warranty" broken...can you answer my question: What should I do with all this Crank Brother's gear that has FAILED!?
  • 1 0
 @Clyron , please generate a Return Authorization via the link below:

www.crankbrothers.com/create_ticket

Once we receive your information, a Rider Support Team member will contact you to make sure we get you taken care of.

Please provide photos of the product you are sending in as well as a brief description of each item you would like for us to evaluate.

Thank you, // Tim
  • 3 0
 Wow this is actually going ok! Good job...
  • 1 1
 Why did the original 5050 pedals have such bad continuity issues?
I eventually gave up and ziptied mine together for a while, then replaced them with some pedals which didn't fall apart.
  • 1 0
 @Shuggles , in reference to the older original 5050 pedals, we made significant improvements to that version introducing a newer version in 2010. We implemented a lighter and stronger outer body system, improved spindle durability, and have now added Igus and Enduro bearings and double seals. We took what we learned from the original and made it better.

Thank you, //Tim
  • 6 7
 Why do you insist on locating your HQ in Laguna Beach, one of the most expensive places to live, rent, own, eat, walk, breathe places in California. Why not relocate to a less expensive city so you have more funds to produce better products and not pass on your shitty overpriced products to the consumer?
  • 1 0
 @novajustin we moved our R&D center in Ogden where we the "cost of the investment" is more affordable. Relocating 20 people is not easy, because behind them there are families, wives, husbands, kids. Believe me this is a topic we have discussed several time, but we are not going to save money on product development. //Gaspare
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers: makes no sense to remain in laguna beach when there are so many surrounding cities 15-20 minutes away that are just as close to trails and aren't ridiculously expensive. just my opinion. cheers!
  • 3 0
 Any plans to release a wheelset with at least a 29mm internal width?
  • 1 0
 @eicca: Everyone has spoken and they want wider rims. Widths and Timing TBD. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 2
 This question goes not for just @crankbrothers but any company: why don’t/didn’t/doesn’t your/their products get rigorously tested post-production? I don’t understand why a large batch of randomly selected components aren’t sent to everyone and their mother’s friends to test out for a few months. Is it schedule, budget, need to get to market? I’m genuinely interested but it would seem to save a company a lot of time and money to spend just that much more time making sure it’s good and well right out of the gate. Wouldn’t it be great to KNOW that what you put out there is so good, so solid that you could offer a killer, bullet-proof warranty because failure rates would be really low?
  • 1 0
 The concept you are suggesting is correct, we do use a series of random tests during production to try to catch manufacturing dicrepancies. However there still exists the reality that you have some variations that go through unnoticed. We work very hard to set up SOP's that break down every part of the process to try to avoid them to the best of our ability and will continue to evolve it. It is the biggest challenge of mass product and if you could develop a fail safe system, you would be a very wealthy person! Cheers, Jason
  • 3 0
 Has the% of items returned under warranty declined with new designs?
  • 2 0
 @ajax-ripper, absolutely! Our focus has been on durability and reliability and these latest improvements, and many from previous years have helped reduce warranty rates significantly. The problem is riders focus so much on the past, and I admit we made some mistakes, but we've had a new management and development team in place for the last few years and our product improvements have been a huge success all around.

Thank you, // Tim
  • 3 2
 Would it at all be possible to do a Placement year from university with a company like yourself?
  • 2 1
 I have Crank brothers Iodine 3 650 B Wheelset. I find the spoke pins is two pieces instead of one hollow. Is that normal?
  • 1 0
 @rizahafas , can you send some photos of the spoke pins in question and your contact information to our wheel tech Nick at nick@crankbrothers.com ?

Thank you, // Tim
  • 2 1
 Dunno what you guys have, my mallets are running good after two years of abuse
  • 4 1
 @SmashedFungi Happy to hear positive experience from cold and muddy Germany. //Gaspare
  • 1 0
 My Candy 3 (with needles) are after 3 years of Czech mud, snow and dust still strong, but they need to be cleaned and re-greased every 2 months (trail/enduro). It is super-easy job...So i am not part of this "hate" bandwagon Smile Your bike just need time to time some service and patience....P.S. Eggbeaters on my XC bike are without service more than 10 years and still smooth as butter.
  • 2 1
 When will you try doing R&D in a muddy or dusty location, rather than just a laboratory?
  • 8 1
 Deathchr,

I can't speak for the past but as far as the current we have placed development product with several riders in Whistler, Scotland, several coastal environments and even Minnesota (for the cold weather riding). I am a huge fan of environment verification of products during the test cycle.

Cheers, Jason
  • 2 3
 Hi . I am a draughting and desgin student in Scotland and for my final project i created a clipless pedal based on your mechanism would you be able to have a look at it and give some pointers on how to improve it ?
Thanks
  • 1 0
 Sure, send an email to the info at CB and they will distribute it to one of the engineers for a response. Cheers, Jason
  • 6 4
 Clearly this thread is for rhetorical questions only.
  • 3 1
 who ordered the six pack of crackers?
  • 2 0
 When are your flat pedals going concave?
  • 1 0
 @johnanderson: Our new Stamp Large and Small flat pedals do have concave. The outer edge is 13mm wide and the center is 11mm. Here are all the specs if you're interested. www.crankbrothers.com/product/stamp-large
// Andy
  • 1 0
 Why is there no external routing for new dropper post, my bike cannot accept internally routed cables
  • 1 0
 @manofthemountain: We opted to focus on the internally routed version first based on the direction bikes are going for the past few year and it's taken us some time to fully bake the design. Now that we are there, 100/150mm travel options are the priority with externally routed posts are in discussion as well. Sorry we don't have the right post for you at the moment. Cheers // Andy
  • 2 0
 What is your favourite pedal?
  • 2 0
 Kellen- Mallet E
Gaspare- Stamp LRG
Andy- Mallet E w/ long spindles
Peter- Mallet E w/ long spindles
Tim- Candy 7 w/ Ti upgrade kit
Jason- Too busy riding prototypes to pick a favorite
  • 2 0
 Can I get a deal on some mallet DH blacks please
  • 1 0
 Have you guys put thought into renovating your pedal design to allow for adjustments in tightness, similar to Shimano SPD's?
  • 1 0
 Will Crank Brothers look to diversify into other products such as mechs cranks or even frames, that kind of thing?
  • 2 0
 @thomasfuelex Hi Thomas, that's not on our plans, we need to focus now on doing great what we are currently doing. We have not resources now to enter new product categories. //Gaspare
  • 2 1
 Why do your 2015 crankbrother mellets dh bearings allways break really fast?
  • 1 0
 Will you please acknowledge that the Kronolog dropper post has a design issue and issue a recall or a refund?
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers Will you please acknowledge that the Kronolog dropper post has a design issue and issue a recall or a refund?
  • 2 1
 @Tom Young (Global Tech & Warranty Manager)
Are you the busiest guy in the office?
  • 3 2
 Well, at least this isn't as embarrassing as being a British mp...........?

(what! I put a question mark in)
  • 1 0
 What is the actual difference between the new CB dropper and a giant dropper seatpost? The internals look the same...
  • 1 0
 @Gregorysmithj1 , great question! Although they may be similar style since both use a internal cartridge, the comparison ends there. Although I cannot speak for the Giant Seatpost, I can give you some information about the Highline to use for comparison when they too respond to your question Smile . While developing the Highline, we took into consideration our history with dropper seatposts and focused on durability, reliability and serviceability. The Highline seatpost cartridge uses a rotary valve that turns to open and close the oil port to lock the seatpost into place. This cartridge requires no maintenance and we guarantee its function for an industry leading 3 years. We also cut no corners using only the finest materials and suppliers in the industry including Igus bearings and keyways, Trelleborg seals and Jagwires finest Elite Ultra slick cable and LEX lined housing. Then add, by far, the most clever lever system on any dropper post, our easy to use quick connect rail clamp system and tool less cable actuator connection! Servicing is effortless and can be performed at home by using our provided lubrication packet. Sound a little different than the Giant now?

Thanks and hope this helps, // Tim
  • 3 2
 How long until I will see a Crankbrothers shoe?
  • 3 4
 The question would be more for how long would it looks like a shoe if they ever release one.
  • 4 0
 @lewis-denver: Rather than getting into the shoe business, we have made our pedals customizable for any shoe, most recently with the new Mallet E and Candy 7/11 pedals. We've incorporated traction pads into the body. These are interchangeable 1mm and 2mm pads to dial in the interface between your shoe and pedal. The 1mm pads come installed on the pedals and the 2mm come packaged with the cleats. Eggbeater 2/3 and Candy 2/3 also have these shims as a separate item and are called Contact Sleeves. // Andy
  • 2 2
 Do you need a new customer service representative? If you do I would like to apply!
  • 1 0
 @laxman01 please send your resume to info@crankbrothers.com at the attention of Peter
  • 3 2
 When are you guys going to be getting into plastic platform pedals?
  • 1 0
 @cheelswheels we should move forward to more durable materials than plastic, if we want to keep our commitment to quality, which we want. Do you agree?
  • 2 1
 @crankbrothers: No, I'm just looking for sweet colours to match my Norco DH bike. Snafu had great options, but I can't find them anywhere! I mean, do you guys know where I can find Snafu stuff?
  • 1 1
 Did you consider changing the name when you took over the brand? If so, why didn't you?
  • 3 0
 @mikeawful we never considered that for two reasons: 1) we focused our efforts and resources on product development more than brand development 2) there are lots of riders that have had positive experiences with our products (not many in this group). //Gaspare
  • 1 0
 Why is the Highline dropper not discounted for sponsored riders?
  • 1 0
 How does the Kronolog design differ from the Highline's?
  • 2 0
 @niliusw it may be easier to tell you what they have in common: almost nothing. They both have a cable, housing, 30.9 or 31,.6 outer bodies Smile . When developing the Highline, we took into consideration our history with dropper seatposts and focused on durability, reliability and serviceability. The Highline seatpost uses an internal cartridge with a rotary valve that turns to open and close the cartridge. This cartridge requires no maintenance and we guarantee its function for an industry leading 3 years. We surrounded the cartridge with a 7075-T6 alloy body and quill, Igus bearings and keyways, Trelleborg seals and by far the most clever lever system on any dropper post. We also did not any corners on cable and housing using Jagwires finest Elite Ultra slick cable and LEX lined housing. Servicing is effortless and can be performed at home by using our provided lubrication packet. Sound a little different than the Kronolog?

Thank you and hope this helps, // Tim
  • 1 0
 @crankbrothers: Tim whats the expected MSRP of the replacement cartridge? Can we order one ourselves without talking to a dealer or with warranty department at CB? Some riders may want to keep a spare around. Also, can the post be used with another remote? What style of connection is the remote?
  • 2 1
 Thoughts on converting from flats to clipless?
  • 1 0
 @oliviergiroux : Here's an outside link to break down the pro's and cons for each. www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQyy-FeLnAA

It's all about personal preference and what you're most comfortable on as well as what style of riding or racing you're doing. Cheers // Andy
  • 1 0
 How in the world do you guys afford that boutique space in Laguna?!?!?!?!
  • 4 0
 @angelfuk Our cfo makes the same question every day..
  • 1 0
 I've got the 2015 dh mallets @crankbrothers
  • 1 3
 I have a Joplin pile in my garage, I think there are at least 4 of them , came on bikes I have purchased over the years , all have various issues, can I trade them for something that takes up less space?
  • 1 3
 Gaspare, only 4% of the high school students in Ogden, Utah passed the standardized high school math test. Why did you choose Ogden as the new R&D center when only 4% of the local talent knows math?
  • 4 3
 What about the industry woukdbyou want changed if at all?
  • 6 0
 This is more from me then from CB, but I didn't want it to go unanswered. I think the number one thing I would change is the industry/community as a whole would be . . . remember the bliss that was had when you rolled out on your first bike to go for a ride. Regardless of if it was BMX, commuting somewhere or even just taking over the neighborhood. At the end of it all bikes are toys and they were meant to be fun!

Cheers, Jason
  • 6 6
 Is there anything better than an organic honeycrisp?
Kellen, I'm talking to you.
  • 1 0
 Have you tried the Pink Lady? Crisp, tart, sweet, delicious. // Kellen
  • 3 2
 Why did this story disappear from the front page til just now?
  • 2 1
 Love the new Mallet E pedals they rock super light
  • 1 0
 This was never going to end well :/
  • 1 0
 gotta love there ISIS BB's years of abuse on the track bike
  • 1 0
 Did anyone watch? If so, how bad was it?
  • 5 6
 What is preium strength brass? Is it made from half cottage chesse and half babys tears?
  • 1 2
 Mallets failed, CB bars bent and cobalt rear wheel folded in half on my first day in Sedona... Disappointed
  • 3 4
 Do you use your own products?
  • 5 0
 We use our own products every day. Some other notable riders that use our products: Greg Minnaar, Steve Peat, Cedric Gracia, Loic Bruni, Loris Vergier, Finn Iles, Brook Macdonald, Anneke Beerten, Kate Courtney, Tahnee Seagrave, Canyon Factory Enduro Team, Ghost XCO team, Hans Rey, Cedric & Cecile Ravanel, Martin Maes, Anton Thelander, Anthony Messere, Richie Schley, Juliana-SRAM Pro Team, Topeak-Ergon team, Curtis Keene, Caroline Mani, Fabio Wibmer, Rebecca Rusch, Danny Hart, Cube Global Squad, Laurie Greenland, Iago Garay, Mark Scott, Josh Lewis...
// Kellen
  • 2 1
 @crankbrothers: Can I please join the team?? I race downhill, Enduro and cross country and already run your pedals because I know they are amazing!
  • 2 3
 @crankbrothers: All those people are paid to use your products everyday. Anyone with enough money can buy credibility from "professionals". I will give it to CB for taking it on the chin today..........you now have a clear picture of what we consumers think about your products and where you need to improve.
  • 7 1
 @rivercitycycles: We are very small, and our competitors are very big. We simply don't have the budget to "buy" riders. The vast majority of pro riders who use our pedals do so by choice. A number of the top DH racers, who are sponsored by competitors, use our pedals on race day. I think that says a lot. // Kellen
  • 2 3
 I would like to demo a set of Mallet DH Pedals.
  • 5 7
 Willing to bet most of the answers will be canned marketing responses.
  • 8 0
 @the-one1 at the end of the day please let us know what you think, for now, please give us a chance. Thanks //Gaspare
  • 10 0
 @crankbrothers: You guys knew you would be put in front of a firing line today when you decided to do this. I have a ton of respect for all of you and the deep breath you all took before this went live, it shows true leadership. I'll be honest, I don't run anything you make. But I live literally 4 miles up the 133 from you and the fact that you showed up for this shit covered hate fest makes me want to support what you are doing. I'll be checking out your whole line over the next few weeks.

Way to man up today.

RP
  • 5 0
 @Poodles84: come to ride with us in the evening around 5.45/6pm one of these days, private message us to let us know when you're coming.
  • 2 0
 @Poodles84:
Great post, thanks
  • 2 0
 @crankbrothers: Do you always have group rides from HQ? I'd love to join in on one sometime.
  • 4 5
 Tim Young ,very busy man
  • 1 3
 Huh no designers on the crankbrothers team...What's up with that?
  • 3 0
 I can answer any design questions you may have?

Cheers, Jason
  • 3 5
 No comment.
  • 8 11
 When are you going to change your company name?
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