K2 Cinch CTS Review And Buying Advice
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K2 Cinch CTS 2015 - 2010 Review by The Good Ride
So the K2 Cinch CTS is a quick release version that sits in between the Formula and the Indy. This is a very uninteresting binding because the base plate is old and outdated compared most bindings with modern tech that allows better performance and flex underfoot. Despite our un-interest in this quick release binding works better than most and has a good fit around the boot compared to many of the Flow bindings we have tried. We must say the Cinch CTS is reliable and has an old school predictable feel that some might like. It is interesting to always see these bindings lingering in shops during the summer which kind of sums up our opinion of them too.
Ethics Statement: We don’t get paid by the manufacturer to write these reviews. No one is perfect and we do make money from the “Where To Buy” links below, but this is our best attempt at an honest and objective review from an average riders’ perspective.
The 2015 K2 Cinch CTS got the CTX’s high back from 2014 but it doesn’t really change the ride up much.
Regarding K2’s Quick Strap/Release System. It’s not as quick to dial out your flex as the market. You have to keep the ankle straps a little loose to get your boots in so after you quick strap you still have to crank down the toe and ankle strap if you want a good fit like traditional bindings to offer. I stand up when I strap my boots in so I don’t like bending over and reaching around behind to pull them up. It feels awkward and its better to do this on your knees. The thing is I don’t want to get on my knees or sit down to strap on my bindings. I found that a good pair of traditional strap bindings are almost as fast or faster if you put them on standing up. If you don’t mind a loose fit around the ankle and toe it’s faster. So most of us feel you lose a lot of performance and support to have a quick release.
The bottom of the base plate is very harsh compared to other bindings and it really leaves a serious mark on the board’s top sheet. For the price, we feel there are more responsive bindings so you do pay a premium for the quick release feature. We feel you would be much better off going with something like the K2 Formula instead of the K2 Cinch CTS. It’s less expensive and offers up a better ride.
K2 Cinch CTS Past Reviews
For 2011 the Cinch CTS added some lighter ankle straps and a canted foot bed. The 2012 is just about the same as the 2011 The canted footbed gives more pressure on the outer parts of your board as well as keep your body in better allignment. Better allignment usually means less fatigue.
K2 Cinch CTS Images
We try to get as many images of the K2 Cinch CTS, but forgive us if they're not all there.
2016
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K2 Cinch CTS User Reviews
Good enough for most probably
Agreed, the review here is pretty spot on. I rode with these when I was undergoing my transition from Intermediate to Advanced and do feel they are better for the Beginner - Intermediate transition. Unfortunately they tend to be more expensive than most Beginners are willing to pay.
The biggest benefit is being able to strap in standing up with your toeside dug into the snow. For me it consumes less energy than digging in my heel side and doing so with conventionial bindings. I never found it all the much easier to strap in on the move either, once I got good enough to do that, it didn't matter what kind of strap-in tech I used.
I've now moved back to conventional bindings with more state of the art tech and I'm happier for it. I have a soft spot for these things but I wouldn't go back unless they could match the responsiveness, performance and tech of top end conventional bindings.
On a side note; I used these as split board bindings (Jones Carbon Solution 161) and in touring mode they work just fine and were quite convenient. However I think it is better to go with lighter weight, split board specific bindings anyway.
Burton Chanel Compatible
I forgot to mention before that K2 also offers an extra disc that is compatible with the Burton Chanel. I haven't used it, but I have heard a few people complain about minor sliding.
Review after one year of use
I think that the review that The Good Ride gave is pretty accurate. These bindings are a bit heavier than standard step in bindings, but that comes with all quick release systems. If you aren't riding the park it shouldn't make too big of a difference. They also seemed pretty stable at higher speeds when compared to my Burton Custom bindings . K2 does a great job with their dampening system. The harshmellow does a pretty good job keeping rugged terrain from wearing you out. The canted foot beds also help fight fatigue. The response is average, but better than other bindings of this type. As far as step ins go, I think that these are right at the top. However, if you are looking for a lighter and more responsive binding you might want to look towards the traditional entry style.
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