Cadex is launching its first mountain bike wheelset, the Max XC WheelSystem. According to the manufacturer, the 29-inch system – developed for cross-country racing – weighs 1,248 grams, including rim tape and tubeless valves. Features include carbon spokes, a 30-millimetre inner rim width and a 120-tooth freehub. With this, Cadex is entering a category in which the recently launched FSA KFX i30, weighing 1,250 grams, is also competing. However, a direct weight comparison requires identical testing conditions. We have not yet been able to weigh both wheelsets.
Carbon spokes attached directly to the hub flange
Special feature: On the Cadex Max XC WheelSystem, the carbon spokes are connected directly to the carbon hub flanges. This design is intended to improve power transfer and reduce lateral deformation. The spoke tension can still be adjusted individually, as the connection to the carbon rims is made via traditional nipples. Syncros went all out with its exclusive Silverton SL wheelsets one step further. These outrageously expensive pieces of jewellery are made entirely from a single piece of carbon fibre and weigh about the same.
The wheels’ key strength is said to lie in their power transmission and propulsion. Thanks to the particularly rigid and efficient connection between the spokes and hubs, the rider’s input is said to be converted particularly effectively into speed and propulsion.
Facts about the Cadex Max XC
- Price: expected to be 4,200 euros
- Weight: 1,248 grams including rim tape and tubeless valves (29 inches)
- Wheel size: 29 inches
- Carbon spokes bonded to carbon hub flanges
- integrated titanium nipples
- Cadex ceramic bearings
- Internal jaw width: 30 mm
- Rim flanges: 5 mm, hookless
- Rim height: 20 mm
- Lifetime guarantee
- Recommended tyre width: 2.2 to 2.6 inches
The rear wheel hub features a helical-bevel ratchet drive with 120 teeth. Mathematically, this results in an engagement angle of three degrees, which is particularly useful for short bursts of acceleration on technical XC sections.
The 22-millimetre-high carbon rims are hookless and 30 millimetres wide on the inside. Cadex calls their rounded, five-millimetre-wide edges ‘Wide Guard’: they are designed to better protect the tyres and rims from hard impacts and reduce the risk of punctures. The manufacturer recommends tyre widths of 2.2 to 2.6 inches for this wheelset. CADEX’s technical specifications also state a weight of 1,208 grams excluding rim tape and valves, as well as freehub bodies compatible with Shimano Micro Spline and SRAM XD.
New SE models from Giant and Liv
Following its appearances in the World Cup, the Max XC is now making its debut on new production bikes. Of the two race full-suspension bikes Giant Anthem Advanced SL The Liv Pique Advanced SL is a new SE model set to be launched, with availability expected from November. The Anthem complements the wheelset with an integrated Contact SLR XC carbon cockpit and is available in Stormfire in sizes S to XL. The Pique is available in sizes XS to L. Both complete bikes are expected to cost 14,000 euros each, including the electronic Flight Attendant suspension system from RockShox.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
