Mavic continues to forge ahead on the accessories market: The French company now offers seven shoe models and three pedals. We tried out the two top models: The "Zxellium" shoe, which weighs 305 grams (size 44), has a continuous, very stiff carbon sole, a high heel shaft and a fastening system with two Velcro straps and a ratchet fastener. Generous mesh inserts ventilate the shoe even on hot summer days. The shoe is easy to adjust, even for wide feet, and the high shaft provides good support when walking in a cradle position. The four rubber studs under the carbon sole ensure a secure ride. Less convincing is the lever to open the ratchet fastener, which is too small. In the rain, you should protect the shoe with shoe covers, otherwise it will quickly become unsightly.
The top pedal "Race SL TI" also looks as elegant as the shoe thanks to its shiny chrome finish. The functional principle of the lightweight pedals (pair weight 237 grams, plates and screws 80 grams) is similar to that of Look. The titanium axle has double bearings in a ball bearing and a needle bearing. The standard cleats supplied allow a heel clearance of seven degrees, with zero degree cleats available as an option. The overall height to the sole measures 18 millimetres and the release force is adjustable between 8 and 20 Newton metres. We liked the elegant finish and the very easy entry and exit. The initial spongy feeling due to the low frictional resistance between the pedal and pedal plate subsided with the first few rides and increasingly rougher contact surfaces. The pedalling feel is similar to that of the Look system, but not as secure as with Shimano. The axle is relatively long, depending on the shoe model and cleat position, the distance between shoe and crank arm can become quite large.
Mavic Zxellium
PLUS: well customisable; good hold
MINUS: Sensitive to dirt; small shutter opener
Mavic Race SL TI
PLUS: elegant finish; easy entry and exit
MINUS: Long axle
Reference/Info: Mavic Germany, www.mavic.com
Prices250 Euro (shoes), 190 Euro (pedals)
Shoe sizes37 1/3 to 47 1/3, whole and half sizes
Photo: Matthias Borchers
