I’ve got a pair of Dynafit Manaslu 2011/12 with Radical FT/ST binders we’re running through the WildSnow laboratory. More details later. For now, as many of you know, the Radical has a different hole pattern than all previous Dynafit backcountry skiing binding models (all Dynafit toes had the same screw hole pattern for a couple of decades). The evolved hole pattern has raised important questions about what Dynafit will do with the binding screw inserts in their skis, as well as what it will be like mounting the new bindings. Here you go (click images to enlarge).
Radical ST/FT binding base to left, previous TLT/FT/ST binding base to right. The new Radical only has 4 holes, with the rear ones in same location as all other Dynafit bindings. The front holes are the same distance apart as all other Dynafit bindings, but are located 12 mm forward of the old hole location. Thus, drilling a pair of new holes for a binding upgrade will be a non-issue. More, having one less screw to deal with adds noticeable speed to a mount or dismount. Coin for scale.
As for the Dynafit ski screw inserts (new Manaslu pictured here) the solution is simple. Yes, Virginia, you'll be able to mount either Radical or legacy Dynafit toe units on the new insert equipped skis. Solution is simply the availability of more inserts. Less one pair, as if you want the most forward position for your Radicals you'll need to drill two holes in the white dimples you can see in the photo. Thing is, the new Manaslu binding mounting position is 1.5 cm forward of the older, so my guess is those of you mounting the Radical will NOT need the forward position. But you never know. If you want to hang ten the option is there. Easy Street Wheat for scale.
More later folks. Teaser: The pair of Manaslu 2011/12 weigh one ounce per ski LESS (50.5 oz) than the original model, 178 cm. If these things ski even better, that’s amazing. If they ski just as good, at least we’re not going backwards.
WildSnow.com publisher emeritus and founder Lou (Louis Dawson) has a 50+ years career in climbing, backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. He was the first person in history to ski down all 54 Colorado 14,000-foot peaks, has authored numerous books about about backcountry skiing, and has skied from the summit of Denali in Alaska, North America’s highest mountain.
