The Micro Traxion is a redesign of Petzl’s Mini Traxion, it’s about 20% more efficient than the Mini and weights in at 85 g — nearly half the weight.It can be used with ropes ranging from 8 to 11 mm.
The Micro Traxion can be used in three different systems: first is the progress-capture pulley system that uses sealed ball bearings — making it 91% efficient. For those who aren’t familiar with pulley efficiency, there are two factors that determine a pulley’s efficiency: The larger the wheel — also known as the sheave — that your rope runs over, the more efficient it is and finally, you’ve got bushings vs. bearings; bushings need to be maintained regularly while sealed ball bearings require little maintenance and are very efficient. The main difference between both is that sealed bearings can be used in giddy environments, ie. canyoneering, rock climbing, caving, ice climbing etc., while bushing are a little less expensive and slightly stronger mechanically, they can jam with ice and get dirty in messy environments.
The Mini Traxion can also be used as a pulley and glide freely when it’s locked into the open position, and lastly, it can be used as an ascender.
Bottom Line: This thing is light, efficient, and will likely win awards for its all-around uses.
You’ll likely see it hitting shelves in the U.S. in March 2012 and retail for $95.
Update: check out the dedicated page on Petzl website for more info