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Ever coy with product titles, Crank Brothers has done its damnedest to confuse us as to the purpose of its Mallet DH Race Pedals. After trying them out in multiple applications ranging from crits to TTs to 'cross, we've determined that their huge, alloy platforms, enlarged spindle, eight adjustable pins per side, and debris clearing Egg Beater clipless design are uniquely suited to DH riding. We admit that we didn't reach this conclusion unaided, as Crank Brothers has strewn clues throughout its Mallet line. For example, the enduro specific Mallet E features a smaller platform with fewer traction pins, suggesting to us that the bigger, pinnier DH model was likely meant for carrying a rider through bigger hits and more calamitous drops than the typical all mountain, single crown course might entail. The elephantine platform and increased pin count also mean the Mallet DH Race plays well with flats for courses where frequent foot downs are key to staying upright. The final bread crumb in the trail of clues is that the DH Race also have a wider Q factor than the rest of the Mallet line, making for a more secure stance that, again, lends itself to the rigors of gravity runs. The final breadcrumb in the trail of clues is that The oversized spindle is 5mm girthier than the standard Mallet models, and it rides on both cartridge and needle bearings with long life seals to ensure these essential components stay clean and smooth after seasons of use. The cleat retention system is classic Egg Beater with a corrosion proof stainless steel spring. The included brass cleats allow for either 15 or 20 degrees of float depending on set up.
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