Released just a couple of weeks ago at Eurobike, the Ripper is a brand new platform SPD pedal from Funn Components. As you may or may not know, Funn already produces a platform pedal called the Mamba, which we’ve currently got some on test. The Ripper isn’t a replacement for the Mamba – this guy enters the range as a higher-end option that’s been developed in conjunction with Funn’s World Cup downhill athletes including local style master, Phil Atwill.
During the Fort William World Cup, Funn gathered all the requests and input from its sponsored riders, and then went developed a prototype of the Ripper pedal. Barely a month later, the prototype Ripper was used by those athletes at the Andorran World Cup round, and after some additional refinement, has now gone into production.
The Funn Ripper SPD Pedals Feature:
- AL6061 CNC Machined Alloy Bodies
- Platform Size: 93mm Wide x 100mm Length x 21mm Thick
- Angular Engagement System
- Adjustable SPD mechanism
- CrMo Axle w/ DU and cartridge bearing
- Colour options: Red / Orange / Blue / Green / Black / Grey
- Cleat SPD Compatible
- Claimed weight: 570g (pair)
The Ripper is an SPD-compatible pedal that uses a large machined alloy body to provide a bigger platform underfoot. It’s designed for downhill racing, but will be equally suited to trail riders and enduro racers who are looking for a more stable platform between foot and pedal.
The body is slightly smaller than the existing Mamba SPD pedal, which should provide more ground clearance, but the main difference between the two is in the Ripper’s Angular Engagement System. Using a spring-loaded central body, the SPD cage is angled up from the main pedal body, which puts the main hook of the mechanism into an easier-to-hit location for the cleat.
The design is basically a re-iteration of Shimano’s venerable 636 SPD pedal. And the reason Funn and DMR are able to use such a design? Well, because the patent recently ran out, and so they can.
The above video will give you an idea of how the mechanism works, and a bit more of an impression of the overall size and shape of the Funn Ripper.
For more information on the Ripper pedal and all of Funn’s other new parts it was showing off at Eurobike, head to the Funn MTB website.
