Hi,
I am having prerelease issues with ATK FR14 mounted on Faction Agent 3.0 (1750g). I have 310mm Dynafit Hoji Free boots, weight 88 kilos, measure 181cm and am an aggressive skier. The binding has both the vertical and horizontal DIN set at 11 (I ski shifts around 10).
After having them mounted in ATK certified shop (the tech skis the same binding), I took the skis for a very easy tour one weekend where on the first day we only descended on a mellow glacier slope without any issues. On the second day, the issues began.
We started from a wooden terrace in front of a hut (so I don't think the issue is 'ice in pin inserts' related) where we started descending on a bit icy slope. Couple turns in, my left binding prereleased (I did not ski fast nor aggressively - the same slope was skied in the same manner by people on ultralight setups without any issues). I stepped back in and another couple turns in both my bindings prereleased at the same time. At that point I lost all my trust in the bindings and locked them. We then continued on very mellow terrain without any issues. Further down, the snow was very wet and heavy. I caught an edge which catapulted me in a frontflip. Upon landing I saw that my left binding (locked) again prereleased vertically.
I took the skis back to the shop where they inspected both the bindings and boots and said everything looks fine. Just in case, they removed one layer of shims from the stomp block.
Next weekend I took the skis for another skitour. The upper part of the slope was pretty icy and still missing confidence in the bindings I again locked them. During a medium speed turn halfway through the slope my outer ski again prereleased from the heel - I managed to stomp the heel back in and skied the rest of the tour very carefully. Lower down the snow was again soft and wet so I unlocked the binding and did not encounter any issues.
Today I went to another ATK certified shop to ask about the bindings. The tech told me that FR14 has been known to cause issues to the point the shop stopped carrying it. And that ATK after sales is rather shite, that multiple people sent the binding back only for ATK to say there is nothing wrong with it and refuse doing anything.
Now I have a couple of questions:
- Stomp block clearance - is there anyone who actually knows if the stomp block should be flush with the boot sole or if there should be any clearance? In the first shop they mounted it in a way that from the outer side there is a bit of clearance so the slider can move. Inner side is flush with the boot and the slider doesnt move even when I pull on it hard (see photos). I am wondering if the inner side is creating any upwards pressure leading to vertical prereleases. (second shop tech said it the stomp block should be in contact with the sole; read on some forums that there should be up to 1mm clearance).
- Is the toe and heel piece misaligned? Second shop tech said that when he mentioned the prerelease issues during ATK workshop, ATK said that often times the issue is misalignment between the toe and heel piece - I checked and there indeed is some - is it enough for it to be causing problems (see photos)?
The heel gap is correctly 4mm.
Unfortunately the normal ski season is pretty much over here, so I cannot experiment with the bindings in some ski resort. Was supposed to be my skimo setup for bigger days but I lost all my trust. Ironically, my other "touring" setup is with Shifts where I did not have any problems with prereleases.
Cheers.
The ATK Freeraider 14 is one of those products that defies singular categorization by merging two vastly different genres. Is it a freeride binding featuring a high release value of 14 that is capable of big stomps? You betcha. But here’s where things get interesting. It is ALSO (somehow) lightweight enough to be used for everyday touring without feeling like you’re hauling a burdensome ball and chain up the skin track. We can hear the backcountry cliff droppers rejoicing while bigger, hard-charging skiers also nod their heads in agreement. For the folks requiring high release values (you know who you are), take comfort in knowing that ATK incorporated 12mm of heel elastic travel for cushy landings. Speaking of gaps, the Freeraider 14 features adjustability up to 25mm to accommodate a lot of different boots. The binding also comes with a freeride spacer that adds support under the heel when skiing hard, making for a stiff ride. Made in Italy using quality materials and fine machinery, the ATK Freeraider 14 won’t let you down or out (easily).
- Choose a release value between 8-14 to keep the skis on when you want and off when you don't.
- Alu Alloys, Stainless Steel, and POM materials used to withstand your abuse.
- 25mm of adjustment so you can use a whole quiver of boots.
- Five different walk modes give you plenty of options on varying terrain.
- 12mm of travel in the Elastic Response System that works to smooth out those high-impact landings.
- Cam Release System is featured in the heel pieces to make the vertical retention very precise.
- Easy Entry System makes stepping into your toe pieces a cinch.
- Snow Pack Proof feature prevents snow/ice/debris buildup in toe pieces so you can focus on skiing, not cleaning your gear.
- Uphill Hardness Variator allows you to adjust toe piece locking pressure.
- Magneto Heel Flaps help stabilize the heel risers so they don't rattle around.
Update 2021/22: ATK changed the drill pattern on the toe piece. All bindings labeled as "2021" will have the previous 30/45 x 35 pattern.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
371g [97mm] |
| Weight (pair) | 742g [97mm] |
|
Boot |
Tech |
|
Brakes |
97, 102, 108, 120 |
|
BSL |
25mm |
|
Riser |
4 + flat |
|
Vertical |
8-14 |
|
Lateral |
8-14 |
|
Crampon |
Yes |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Aluminum alloys, POM, stainless steel |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Freeride, backcountry, sidecountry |
| Notes | Includes Freeride spacer |
| Bottom Line | Send it hard without the weight penalty |
| Compare to other Full-featured Bindings | |
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Questions & Reviews
4/18/2024
4/18/2024
Hi Matteo,
Sorry to hear about your issues. I do think I have some ideas for you. First of all, based on your picture, the alignment is a bit off. It's not the worst I've seen, but I think that could be enough to throw off your lateral release a little bit. This is something that can be tweaked by loosening and re-tightening the toe screws in the correct order, and twisting the toe piece in the correct direction. A competent touring shop should be able to help with this. But small misalignment would not cause vertical pre-releases.
My other guess is that your freeride spacer is still set too high. This is one of the most common issues we see when folks are pre-releasing from these bindings. You do want a small gap between the spacer and the sole. If your sole is contacting the spacer at any point, the spacer is too high. You will want to be able to slide a business card in and out between the boot sole and the spacer when the boot is in the binding. This is likely the root of the vertical pre-releases.
If you have further questions, please reach out to help@skimo.co and we're happy to chat more there. Or give us a call!
Sorry to hear about your issues. I do think I have some ideas for you. First of all, based on your picture, the alignment is a bit off. It's not the worst I've seen, but I think that could be enough to throw off your lateral release a little bit. This is something that can be tweaked by loosening and re-tightening the toe screws in the correct order, and twisting the toe piece in the correct direction. A competent touring shop should be able to help with this. But small misalignment would not cause vertical pre-releases.
My other guess is that your freeride spacer is still set too high. This is one of the most common issues we see when folks are pre-releasing from these bindings. You do want a small gap between the spacer and the sole. If your sole is contacting the spacer at any point, the spacer is too high. You will want to be able to slide a business card in and out between the boot sole and the spacer when the boot is in the binding. This is likely the root of the vertical pre-releases.
If you have further questions, please reach out to help@skimo.co and we're happy to chat more there. Or give us a call!
Answer this question:
I've used this binding for the past few seasons on my 191cm WNDR Alpine Vital 100s w/ Dynafit Hoji Free 130s.
I've been nothing but extremely satisfied with the quality of the build and the performance of these bindings. I've skied this setup in a wide range of conditions (including a few resort days) and am confident they are the best full featured tech binding you can buy. From the satisfying step-in to the magnetic heel risers, these things are money. Excited to try out the new EVO variant.
I've been nothing but extremely satisfied with the quality of the build and the performance of these bindings. I've skied this setup in a wide range of conditions (including a few resort days) and am confident they are the best full featured tech binding you can buy. From the satisfying step-in to the magnetic heel risers, these things are money. Excited to try out the new EVO variant.
Comment on this review:
4/4/2023
Hi, I'm looking for that elusive light weight/ good skiing combo for a binding. I plan on mounting to my alp tracks 98. Currently deciding between these and the new atomic backlands. Any thoughts? Thanks!
4/4/2023
Pat,
The Backland is lighter and simpler, while the Freeraider has an elastic heel design, freeride spacer, and a higher max release.
Heavier or aggressive skiers may find that the additional features of the Freeraider give a smoother, safer ride. For everyone else, the Backland works great.
Hope that helps outline the differences a bit!
The Backland is lighter and simpler, while the Freeraider has an elastic heel design, freeride spacer, and a higher max release.
Heavier or aggressive skiers may find that the additional features of the Freeraider give a smoother, safer ride. For everyone else, the Backland works great.
Hope that helps outline the differences a bit!
Answer this question:
3/8/2023
Hi, I got myself used salomon qst 98 skis mounted with salomon shift for 305mm boot, but i wanted to remount it with ATK Freeraider 14 Binding or new EVO 15,
will i be able to mount it on the same mark on the skis? or i would have to move mounting point drasticaly, to avoid holes intersecting , my boot is 315 mm bsl
Thanks !
will i be able to mount it on the same mark on the skis? or i would have to move mounting point drasticaly, to avoid holes intersecting , my boot is 315 mm bsl
Thanks !
3/8/2023
Maksym,
The only way to know for sure will be to take off the old bindings and line up the new ones with your boot.
That said, it looks like you wouldn't need to move the toe, or you'd need to move it back just a hair, and you should be able to move the heel forward or back and account for it with the BSL adjustment in the heel.
The only way to know for sure will be to take off the old bindings and line up the new ones with your boot.
That said, it looks like you wouldn't need to move the toe, or you'd need to move it back just a hair, and you should be able to move the heel forward or back and account for it with the BSL adjustment in the heel.
Answer this question:
2/25/2023
How common is it to add a toe shim on this binding? I had to add a 5mm shim on my speed turns and curious if these are similar?
2/26/2023
Hi Todd, it's less common than the Dynafits since the stock ramp angle is lower...more like a shimmed Speed Turn. FYI DPS R14 comes with one.
Answer this question:
1/3/2023
If I have a 105 width ski, should I get the 102 width brake and bend it out a bit? Or get the 108 width brake?
1/3/2023
Hi Jared, you likely could go either way depending on the shape of your sidewalls. I personally lean towards narrower if possible.
Answer this question:
12/9/2022
does the Freeride spacer adjust in height? It seems like there would be variation between boots in the pin height to sole length.
12/9/2022
Hi Steve, yes, you can tweak the height by selecting from three included shims of varying thicknesses (or a fourth option of no shim).
Answer this question:
8/30/2022
I noticed that the glam edition is featured in the first two pictures of this product above. Is the glam edition still available?
8/30/2022
Hi Adam, sadly those photos were a remnant from last season. The Glam is no longer available.
Answer this question:
8/26/2022
what is the best way to use this binding without the brake, but still have the lateral motion that comes with the sliding plate on the brake pad? if i install the Brake Seat Covers then I lose the lateral motion of the brake pad, right?
8/26/2022
Hi Slator, the sliding action on the brake pads is intended to counter the lateral friction from the brake itself. If you remove the brakes, then theoretically you no longer need an AFD as there is no interference in the first place.
However, if you like a solid platform for your heels, you could also take a look at the Raider freeride spacer from our
ATK binding parts page.
These contain their own sliding plate and can be used with the seat covers in the absence of brakes.
However, if you like a solid platform for your heels, you could also take a look at the Raider freeride spacer from our
ATK binding parts page.
These contain their own sliding plate and can be used with the seat covers in the absence of brakes.
Answer this question:
6/5/2022
Are there any plates to make the delta less? Plates to put under the toe?
Are the brakes removable?
Are the brakes removable?
6/6/2022
Steve, Yes, it is the Raider Toe shim, Here - ATK binding parts. It installs under the toe piece, and includes the longer screws you will need.
You can remove the brakes, but they are so light, Why?
You can remove the brakes, but they are so light, Why?
6/6/2022
Answer this question:
2/22/2022
Overall, these are the best bindings I’ve ever used. One design flaw is that the toe piece can collect ice and snow underneath itself. There is no space to clean the ice and snow out with a pole tip etc. This makes locking the toe very difficult in uphill mode when it is cold and icy. Do you have any suggestions? I thought about spraying some WD-40 or other lubricant under the toe piece.
2/22/2022
Hi Willow,
You are on the right track! If you have had issues with icing, a little silicon spray under the toe piece will help to mitigate ice build up. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
You are on the right track! If you have had issues with icing, a little silicon spray under the toe piece will help to mitigate ice build up. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Answer this question:
ATK currently makes the best touring bindings on the market. It's an outstanding binding that is easy to get in and out of, very durable, a very functional and efficient design, and it skis very well. The freeride spacer makes a big difference and really sets the binding apart.
I've seen my ski partners have other bindings (Dynafit) fail on them mid run and these just keep on going. I came from the Salomon MTN which was a great binding. I think this one is easier to get in and out of, skis better, and is more durable.
My one complaint is the brake system. It's not a bad system and generally works fine but it has its moments when snow builds up below it. I would make sure to do your best to clean out any snow below the brake when you're transitioning. Even a minor amount of snow can cause the brake to not fully catch and eventually pop out when you start skinning again.
I would highly recommend this binding and other similar ATK bindings.
I've seen my ski partners have other bindings (Dynafit) fail on them mid run and these just keep on going. I came from the Salomon MTN which was a great binding. I think this one is easier to get in and out of, skis better, and is more durable.
My one complaint is the brake system. It's not a bad system and generally works fine but it has its moments when snow builds up below it. I would make sure to do your best to clean out any snow below the brake when you're transitioning. Even a minor amount of snow can cause the brake to not fully catch and eventually pop out when you start skinning again.
I would highly recommend this binding and other similar ATK bindings.
Comment on this review:
10/6/2021
Hello,
How should I choose which brake width to order on this binding?
Thanks!
How should I choose which brake width to order on this binding?
Thanks!
10/6/2021
Hi Mike,
Brake width depends on the waist width of your skis! The closer the brake width to the waist width of your ski, the more ideal the fit. However, brakes that are too narrow can be stretched to the correct width by up to 6mm depending on the brand. Additionally, brakes that are significantly wider than your ski may catch when you roll your skis on edge. reach out to us at help@skimo.co, and we can chat brakes for your set up!
Brake width depends on the waist width of your skis! The closer the brake width to the waist width of your ski, the more ideal the fit. However, brakes that are too narrow can be stretched to the correct width by up to 6mm depending on the brand. Additionally, brakes that are significantly wider than your ski may catch when you roll your skis on edge. reach out to us at help@skimo.co, and we can chat brakes for your set up!
Answer this question:
8/29/2021
Do you all have any intention of carrying the FR 16?
9/25/2021
Hi Riley, we now have a new listing for the Freeraider 16.
Answer this question:
3/18/2021
Do Dynafit ski crampons work with these or do you need to buy the ATK ski crampons?
3/18/2021
Hi Michael,
Yes, Dynafit ski crampons are compatible with ATK bindings! Refer to our Ski Crampon Compatibility article for a full guide on the world of Ski Crampons!
Yes, Dynafit ski crampons are compatible with ATK bindings! Refer to our Ski Crampon Compatibility article for a full guide on the world of Ski Crampons!
3/29/2021
They work, but they don't fit as well as the ATK crampons do.
Answer this question:
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