Plum R 120 review

The Plum R 120 is an ISMF-certified, ultralight pin-tech race binding built for one purpose: speed. At just 120 g per foot, it combines a machined 7075 aluminum body, steel toe hardware, and POM support with fixed release values (forward 7, lateral 8), a rotating heel offering flat and a single 38 mm riser, and no brake by default. It’s a minimalist, competition-first tool—precise and fast, but unforgiving.

Who is it for?

• Skimo racers and weight-focused uphill specialists.
• Skiers using tech-insert boots on narrow race/touring skis (typically ≤ ~70 mm underfoot).
• Not ideal for heavier skiers (Plum discourages > ~90 kg), wide skis, or resort-style skiing.

Highlights

• 120 g per binding keeps transitions snappy and climbs efficient.
• “Too Facile” easy step-in toe feels quick and confidence-inspiring.
• Simple, race-ready operation: rotating heel, flat mode, and one 38 mm riser; no brake to fuss with.
• ISMF-certified for competition compliance.

On-snow performance

• Uphill: incredibly light on the foot; the single 38 mm riser covers steep skintracks well, and flat mode is welcome on mellow approaches.
• Transitions: the toe lock is positive, and the heel rotation is straightforward. Without a brake, swaps are fast—add the optional Race Stopper only if rules or terrain require it.
• Downhill: very direct power transfer and a classic race feel. The fixed release (7/8) and lack of heel elasticity mean less forgiveness in variable snow; setup and technique matter.

Specs explained

• Type of binding: Tech/pin (frameless) race. Prioritizes minimal weight and simplicity for competition, not freeride or wide skis.
• DIN / release value: Forward 7, lateral 8 (fixed). Non-adjustable—choose only if these values suit your weight, technique, and goals.
• Elastic travel: 0 mm at the heel. Delivers a crisp, precise feel but less shock absorption and tolerance to hard hits.
• Brake width: No brake included. Optional Plum Race Stopper fits very narrow skis (to roughly 68.5 mm), aimed at race setups.
• Weight: 120 g per binding (≈240 g/pair). Excellent for long climbs and fast accelerations.
• Compatibility: Tech-insert touring boots (e.g., ISO 9523 soles with inserts). Not for alpine soles (ISO 5355). Best on narrow race/touring skis (typically ≤ ~70 mm).
• Materials: 7075 aluminum (CNC’d), hardened steel front, POM heel support—high strength-to-weight for durability under race use.

Features and details

• Rotating heel with flat and one 38 mm riser.
• “Too Facile” step-in toe aids quick, reliable entry.
• Optional crampon/knife slot; 2-year warranty.

Comparisons

• ATK SL World Cup: similar weight and fixed-release ethos. ATK’s toe action is famously crisp; Plum’s “Too Facile” offers notably easy step-in.
• Dynafit Low Tech Race 105: even lighter but equally minimalist. The R 120 feels stout and straightforward with competitive ease of use.
• Ski Trab Gara Titan WC: comparable mass and intent. Your choice comes down to step-in feel, accessory ecosystem, and availability.

Mounting and setup

• No adjustment track: have it mounted to your exact boot sole length (BSL). A second boot often requires a different mount or plate.
• Consider the Race Stopper only for very narrow skis (≈ ≤ 68.5 mm). In brake-less races, a leash may be required—check your rulebook.

Durability and care

• The 7075 aluminum chassis and steel toe insert are proven materials for strength at low weight. Rinse after gritty days, inspect pins and lock rollers, and keep screws torqued.

Key takeaways

• Ultralight race feel: maximum efficiency uphill and in transitions.
• Fixed release (7/8): simple and consistent, but not adjustable.
• Minimalist by design: no heel elasticity or track—precise but less forgiving.
• Narrow focus: shines on ≤ ~70 mm skis; optional brake only to ~68.5 mm.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is the Plum R 120 ISMF-certified?
A: Yes. It meets ISMF requirements, making it legal for skimo competitions that mandate certification.

Q: Can I adjust the release values?
A: No. Forward is 7 and lateral is 8. Choose this binding only if those values fit your profile.

Q: Will it work with my boots?
A: You need tech-insert touring boots. Alpine soles without inserts will not work.

Q: What ski width is appropriate?
A: It’s designed for narrow race skis. Plum and retailers commonly point to ~70 mm as a practical upper limit; the Race Stopper fits to about 68.5 mm.

Q: Does it have a ski brake?
A: Not by default. The optional Plum Race Stopper is compatible with the R 120 for narrow skis.

Verdict

If your priority is pure skimo speed, the Plum R 120 delivers: ultralight, straightforward, and fast. You trade adjustability, elasticity, and broad ski compatibility for race-day performance. For a more forgiving, all-round touring setup, look to a lightweight tech binding with an adjustment track and brake.