BMD SPIKE 3-pin issue

[connyro]

Let me start by saying that our ski group up here absolutely LOVES the BMD SPIKE 3-pin bindings for "xcD"ing on wider skis like the Vector BCs, V6 BCs, Koms, etc and light plastic boots. The step-in feature is awesome, the toe-box is large and stiff, giving more turning power than regular 3-pins. They are effective and elegant. Also, customer service has been second to none. However, we seem to have come across a problem with the durability of the toe box. See photos below.

In one instance, the toebox completely broke, causing us to employ a Voile strap for the limp home. the other photo is a binding that's been skied a total of 2 times (about 10 miles total). Neither skier would be called 'aggressive'. We've been in contact with BMD, and they told us that this is a new problem with an unknown extent. BMD has taken care of us by responding promptly and sending out replacement parts very quickly at no charge (did I mention great customer service?) They are looking into the issue but have not heard of anyone else with this issue.

Has anyone else ran into this issue?

[MikeK]

Nope, but I know the root of the problem. Stress concentration at the bend radius.

My two cents. Check the new parts for any tool marks where they bend it. Any little nick there could cause that to crack. Might be a material spec change in their production that caused it, or a certain production run. Maybe the tolerance is a bit on the tight end and you are stressing that when clamping down the duckbill.

I'd definitely work with them and relay those concerns. Maybe they can find the problem from their end.

[connyro]

Apparently, they are on it already: "The material and manufacturer of the parts for this years order is the same as previous years. The parts tested OK when they arrive but we did not anticipate any problems since these parts have been stable for years. I have contact the manufacture since I have another batch of parts on order and reviewed this problem, they are looking into it as well."

[anemic]

I'm guessing a surprise change in metallurgy


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[Rodbelan]

Never had any problem either with Lite Dogz or Telebuldogs... Using them with burlier boots than what is shown in pictures...