Why have three different versions of each wheelset?
While most brands tend to take a one size fits all approach, we want to cater to the needs of each individual rider. For this reason, we have decided to offer three different options at three different price points. Let’s explore the differences.
What are the similarities and differences between them?
The main differences come down to weight, lateral stiffness, and weight limits. Performance in vertical impact tests is nearly identical, with each passing the Particle 90 Joule Vertical Impact Test. This is more than twice the UCI Vertical Impact Test, which only uses 40 joules.
What are the advantages of the Ultralight series wheels?
Ultralight wheels use advanced and complex carbon layups which significantly increases manufacturing costs. And the biggest advantage is of course, you guessed it, they are lighter. Our Ultralight rims are some of the lightest available, but unlike many super light wheels out there, these are designed with safety in mind. These are the ultimate wheels if you want to make a truly performance bike that can allow you to climb and accelerate like no other. They offer extremely low inertia, as rotational weight from rims and spokes is the most effective place to lose weight off your bike.
As mentioned before, they can survive strong impacts. The wheelset has a few disadvantages depending on who is riding them. We have conservatively given them a 100kg weight limit. Heavier riders can stress wheels more than the average person. If you and your bike are under 100kg, this wheelset can give you the best performance possible for most riding. Ultralight series wheels are our most compliant, offering better comfort.
While our lightest wheelsets with 4th gen carbon spokes, the GCX and RCX series start at just 1020 and 1030 grams for the pair respectively. The truth is that there are some sub-1kg wheelsets out there, but they are essentially purely hill-climb wheels and are not suitable for everyday riding. Our wheels are all designed with strength and practicality in mind. We also see great importance in rider safety, and that is why we use an impact test standard higher than competitors in the industry and use conservative weight limits. Our lightweight wheels also have sufficient spokes to offer excellent power transfer.
What are the advantages of Light series wheels?
While our Light series wheelsets are a step down in performance, they are by no means entry-level or even amateur wheels. These pack a serious punch. They can accommodate heavier riders up to 120kg and can cater to the needs of stronger sprinters who prefer stiffness over light weight. Their weight is still very respectable.
Since Light series wheels have a less complex manufacturing process, they are not as expensive to manufacture. As a result, they are priced $200 less for the pair as compared to the Ultralight wheelsets. They are a good middle ground for riders who do not want the highest performing wheels.
What are the advantages of Team wheels？
Team series wheels start at just $999 for the pair, making them some of the best value carbon spoke wheels out there. The rims are relatively simple to make from a manufacturing point of view as they use a more traditional carbon fiber layup. They can accommodate riders up to 140kg, and they have the best lateral stiffness. This does come with a weight penalty and a reduction in comfort, however. For this reason, we also offer RCX and GCX Team wheels, which offer all of the same stiffness benefits while being significantly lighter.
Lastly, the reason why we call these Team version wheels is because sponsored teams in general have to make sure they stay above the UCI weight limit of 6.8kg. Since most of the top riders use lightweight carbon frames, groupsets, forks, etc., they need to keep the weight low, but not too low. In some cases, however, some riders will prefer lighter weight wheels and heavier frames for lower inertia or heavier wheels for 2000+ watt sprints!
In Summary
No matter what wheelset you choose, you can’t go wrong. Please remember that each wheelset does have a maximum system weight, including rider, bike, and accessories. If you are on the limit, we recommend choosing the heavier option.