Xplore Tips and Tricks?

[voilenerd]

I’m still on the fence about ordering the Xplore binding and boots. Couple of questions, when I get to a downhill run do I need to put in a different flexor every time? What about when I get to the bottom of the hill? Stick the other flexor in? Seems like a pain compared to my switch backs or cartridge bindings, since I would need to completely remove the ski to stick in the flexor.

And final question, any issues with spring touring and dirt getting into the pins/spring in boot and causing problems clipping in and out?

[CIMA]

I went through the same stuff a month ago and settled down to traditional NNN bindings and boots.

@Tom M 's videos include a lot of useful information on this issue like this:


My first impressions of Xplore were good, but after having set out BC ski tour with my friend equipped with Xplore, I could not feel sure of myself for switching to the new system. From my point of view, the Xplore has still way to go in terms of reliability.

[JohnSKepler]

I skied nothing but Xplore last year using Alaska XP and Alfa Free on Gamme54, Falketind62, and Voile Objective. I had zero reliability issues and felt both better control down and better control up than NNNBC. For rolling terrain there’s no need to change the flexor. For more challenging downhill, the stiff flexor is better and it still kicks pretty well. Feels a lot like a fixed 3-pin with the stiff flexor. I found it to be a great all around BCXC and XCD binding when used as intended.

[CwmRaider]

I have Xplore on skis and skates.
I have Alfa Free boots, with Åsnes Falketind Xplore Åsnes Ousland. Previously had Xplore on Combat Nato and Otto Sverdrup.
Have had no issues with Xplore, I really like the bindings. I have had no need for the zero resistance plate, and kind of dislike the kick and glide with hard flexor. I will change flexor from standard to hard typically when I am all the way at the top on longer runs and remove skins. Otherwise the standard flexor works ok for most settings, but the hard flexor does help with downhill control.

[CIMA]

I heard from a friend of mine that a telemark-ski professional said that we could go with the standard flexor only and would have no problem.

[aclyon]

I've used Xplore for most of last season on Fischer Traverse 78 skis.
Although the stiff flexor does add a little extra control on DH, the kick and glide was terrible for me, and I wanted to take them off as soon as I was on anything rolling or flat. I find the standard flexor to be totally great for all situations. I actually haven't tried the free pivot flexor yet, though I do have it. I just haven't felt the need to stray from the standard flexor too much. With enough skill it is just as competent on the DH as the stiff flexor, with much smoother transitions to rolling and flat.

I have had zero problems with getting in and out of the binding, besides that it is slightly awkward compared to NNN. Did lots of dirty spring snow, no problems. Long all-day tours, no problems. Haven't done an overnight yet, but did a handful of 10-20 mile days in the spring, across frozen lakes and various degrees of pitches, and had no problem.

On the other hand, I'm not totally convinced that it gives a huge performance advantage over NNN-BC. The boots have a very stiff sole which allows for harder edging. But beyond that I'm not totally convinced it's some game changer. The binding is significantly more expensive and the boots are too, so if budget is an issue, I think NNN-BC is the way to go.

[telerat]

Prices on Xplore are from slightly higher to significantly more expensive than NNN-BC. All the following prices are MSRP in NOK. Alfa, Lundhags and Madshus are 500 more expensive (from 3500-4500 for NNN-BC to 4000-5000 for the similar Xplore boots), while Alpina Alaskas BC/XP are 4900/5800. I don't know with Crispi yet.

The binding is significantly more expensive though; from 1100-1200 to 2400. If Xplore is worth it everyone has to decide for themselves, and I would not pay full price for the binding. With 30-50% off on ski equipment sale in spring, as has been the rule lately here in Norway with excess inventory, the difference is okay even though the binding is still expensive.

I have not skied NNN-BC so can not compare performance, but having a binding and boot interface that does not pack with snow is an advantage to Xplore. Less play and lack of noise, together with step in and easy out is nice compared to 75mm.

The difference between normal and hard flex is significant and I have problems believing that NNN-BC can match that given similar boots with good support. 75mm with cable would have no problem matching or even exceeding it, but that also depends on the boot. Ski technique is most important no matter the system.

[wabene]

Regular application of silicone spray on my Voile 75mm bindings limits icing and completely eliminates the squeaking.

[CIMA]

Maybe I'm just overthinking it, but when I see stuff like the Xplore Backcountry Leash and Xplore Backcountry Grease, it kind of makes me wonder if those Xplore bindings could pop open by accident and those pins might get stuck from time to time.

There is no such accessory sold for NNN bindings.
In addition, the NNN is almost maintenance-free and historically tested.

I have had zero problems with getting in and out of the binding, besides that it is slightly awkward compared to NNN.

Yes, I sensed that awkwardness, too.
The guy mentioned similar things in his video (skip to 6:00):

Facts (Summary of the video)
The reviewer is an experienced cross-country skier in both skate and classic techniques but not at a professional level.
They wanted better control, especially in steeper backcountry terrain, and hoped to use the equipment for various skiing needs.
The new equipment provides a solid connection to the ski, though not as much as alpine skiing.
The Rottefella Xplore binding has spring-loaded pins for boot attachment and offers various flexor plates for different skiing styles.
An anti-ice plate prevents snow clogging but can cause a sharp tug during acceleration.
The Xplore bindings may sometimes not engage both pegs fully, potentially leading to disengagement.
The reviewer expresses concerns about the durability of bumpers.
Rossignol XP12 boots limit ankle bending but provide more flexibility than alpine boots. They feature a double lace system and may require gaiters.
Fisher Excursion 88 skis are described as full metal edge backcountry skis with a no-wax central section.
The reviewer prefers wider, more curved skis for certain terrains.
While the new gear increased their capabilities, it pushed them to ski steeper slopes and more technical terrain, requiring more turnaround time.

[telerat]

The Leash is an indication that Xplore can be used on resort and steeper skiing, and not of less reliability. Some have modified NNN-BC to have leashes too: https://www.telemarktalk.com/viewtopic. ... =20#p46334

There was a production issue on the first series and Pins had stiction. Rottefella will repair it if needed, but it is a security issue, just as any other boot or binding damage on 75mm or NNN-BC. The Grease may be needed or a precaution from Rottefella to shift blame to the user. Long time durability remains to be seen.

The construction makes it possible to step into the binding without both pins being engaged, so you should do a little wiggling to make sure they are engaged before starting skiing. This is a bit like the Dynafiddle dance on tech binding, but you can not see if the Xplore pins are engaged and have to test it. I plan on modifying a binding with a round file to see if I can increase the reliability of step in.

I would not call the reviewer an experienced skier from watching the video. I think being pushed to "ski steeper slopes and more technical terrain" is a sign that Xplore gives better control on descents. As always it is the boot that provides most of the support, regardless of binding system.