14 carbon and aluminium wheelsets in the test

Robert Kühnen

 · 11.01.2018

14 carbon and aluminium wheelsets in the testPhoto: Marius Maasewerd
14 carbon and aluminium wheelsets in the test

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Wide, light and strong - there are some real gems among the current MTB wheels with the Boost standard. In the test: six carbon and eight aluminium wheelsets between 491 and 1480 euros.

Wheels are not only eye-catching, but also an important part of the chassis. With their width, they determine the shape of the tyre and the air pressure with which it can be ridden. With the current wide rims - the average internal dimension in the test is around 30 millimetres - the pressure can be lowered and comfort and grip increased. These are strong arguments for retiring old narrow-track wheels and banishing them to a second or third bike and investing in new technology.

But which design should you choose? Conventional construction or system wheel? What weights are realistic? Can carbon rims survive a ride through rock gardens, or is it crazy to seriously rattle over rocks and root boards on carbon? Sure, everyone wants a light wheel. But wheels also need to be robust. Because if the wheel fails, the air is not only out of the tyre, but also out of the dream tour.

You can find these MTB wheelsets in the test:

Carbon wheels

  • 9th Wave Dirt-SW27
  • Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5
  • Bontrager Line Pro 30
  • Bulls Hattori
  • Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5"
  • Syntace C33i Straight Carbon (BIKE TIP: Test winner)

Aluminium wheels

  • DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30
  • E*Thirteen TRS+
  • Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35
  • Newmen Evolution SL A.30 (BIKE TIP: Price / Performance)
  • Spank Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset Boost
  • Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL
  • Veltec ETR-ExtraThree 27.5"
  • Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3
9th Wave Dirt-SW27 (Carbon)
Photo: Georg Grieshaber

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Two wheels stand out in the test

In terms of stiffness, all wheels benefit from the Boost design. Thanks to the wide installation dimensions, the rims stand firmly between the flanges, even though the thinnest spokes such as the Sapim CX-Ray are used. System wheels, i.e. specially matched hubs, spokes and rims, realise slightly lower weights than conventional setups. The wheelsets weigh between 1400 and 1950 grams, with the aluminium model from Newmen weighing in at 1597 grams between the carbon wheels, which naturally lead the weight ranking. The crash test reveals major differences. Here, the carbon rim from Syntace (1600 grams) shows extreme resilience and remains intact even under hard overload, which causes aluminium rims to buckle like an empty can of beer. Together with the other good qualities, this gives it a "Super" in the overall ranking. All other carbon rims fail much earlier, at the latest at impact level 5, but sometimes show minor damage even before that, which is not always easy to detect, but can be a nucleus for total failure. With carbon, the question always arises as to whether the manufacturer can guarantee to have the manufacturing fluctuations typical of carbon under control. Aluminium is more honest in this respect. The material is homogeneous, and a large impact always results in a dent. Smaller dents can be bent out again, but if the flank breaks, as with Sun Ringlé, the tour is over. The size of the bumps varies greatly. Newcomer Newmen stands out in this discipline for aluminium bikes and also gets a "Super" as a final verdict. The dent resistance is much better than with all other rims, thanks to a slightly flared flank, copied from the motocross sector. In the duel of the best - Syntace and Newmen - there is almost a stalemate between carbon and aluminium wheels. However, the latter costs less than half as much and is therefore the best value for money in the test.

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Conclusion Robert Kühnen, BIKE test editor:
Carbon is the material to make wheels as light as possible. But only by using a lot of fibre can they become so robust that their performance is beyond reproach. And then the weight advantage over the best aluminium wheels is gone. So common sense dictates that aluminium in its best form remains the first choice.

  Robert Kühnen, BIKE test editorPhoto: Daniel Kraus Robert Kühnen, BIKE test editor


Wide rims

The average inner width of the rims is 30 millimetres, which allows low tyre pressures. The wide Boost installation dimension - 110 mm at the front, 148 mm at the rear - makes the wheels stiff.


Tubeless

All rims in the test are suitable for tubeless operation. However, the effective diameters vary. A slightly oversized rim is helpful for a good seal.

Breaking test: carbon breaks, aluminium dents

The eternal competition for the best material does not stop at the rims. Our impact test simulates what happens when aluminium or carbon make hard contact with the ground.

Missed a stone or jumped right into a root? If the tyre punctures, the structural strength of the rim is what counts. We carried out an impact test to see what the rim can withstand. To do this, we mounted the wheels at an angle of 20 degrees and hit the rim flange with a 7.5-kilogram plastic hammer from five different heights. Aluminium rims quickly get dents, the depth of which we measured (table values above). We checked carbon rims for visible damage and made up to five attempts at five different points at the highest impact level. Sometimes four attempts go well without damage, and the rim breaks on the fifth. In the case of carbon, we rated the highest damage-free level, and in the case of breakage, we also devalued by one level. In the case of aluminium, we rated the level at which the deformation remained below one millimetre.

  The results of our break test of the carbon and aluminium wheels at a glance.Photo: BIKE Magazin The results of our break test of the carbon and aluminium wheels at a glance.  Indestructible: The Syntace carbon rim easily passes impact level 5, even the test at level 8 only cracks the top coat. An outstanding test result. You can plummet to the valley with it.Photo: Robert Kühnen Indestructible: The Syntace carbon rim easily passes impact level 5, even the test at level 8 only cracks the top coat. An outstanding test result. You can plummet to the valley with it.  Cracked: Carbon behaves digitally. The carbon rim from Acros holds up to impact level 4 without any visible signs, at impact level 5 the rim tears open. In rough terrain, such constructions are not a good choice.Photo: Robert Kühnen Cracked: Carbon behaves digitally. The carbon rim from Acros holds up to impact level 4 without any visible signs, at impact level 5 the rim tears open. In rough terrain, such constructions are not a good choice.  Buckled: Aluminium usually only buckles. But if it gets too much, it will also break - as in the picture of the Sun Ringlé rim, which is the only aluminium rim that tears significantly at impact level 5.Photo: Robert Kühnen Buckled: Aluminium usually only buckles. But if it gets too much, it will also break - as in the picture of the Sun Ringlé rim, which is the only aluminium rim that tears significantly at impact level 5.  Sturdy: Even at impact level 5, the dents in the Newmen aluminium rim are tiny. No aluminium rim can take the abuse better. The trick: The rim flanges are slightly flared.Photo: Robert Kühnen Sturdy: Even at impact level 5, the dents in the Newmen aluminium rim are tiny. No aluminium rim can take the abuse better. The trick: The rim flanges are slightly flared.

TEST RESULT 9TH WAVE Dirt-SW27

  9th Wave Dirt-SW27Photo: Georg Grieshaber 9th Wave Dirt-SW27


Price / Info 1299 Euro 9thwave-cycling.com
Description of the Carbon rim, 28 triple-crossed round spokes (2.0 / 1.5 / 2.0), incl. tape & valve
Available Diameter 27,5" / 29,5"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm, Pred. St.
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano/ XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.2" to 2.6"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 115 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29.4 / 585.5 mm
Weight² VR 691 g / HR 827 g / total 1518 g
Stiffness VR 78 N/mm / HR 61.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 370 kg x cm² / HR 369 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  9th Wave Dirt-SW27: evenly tensioned, slight left-right deviationsPhoto: BIKE Magazin 9th Wave Dirt-SW27: evenly tensioned, slight left-right deviations


Spoke tension deviation VR 16/18 %, HR 20/10 %
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion The lightweight, asymmetrical wide rim appears to be identical in construction to the Acros rim, but also shares its sensitivity to impact. Very good, homogeneous construction. Very good stiffness.


BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD

  9th Wave Dirt-SW27: Excellent construction with high-flange hubs and asymmetric carbon rims. Unfortunately too sensitive to impacts for rough terrain.  Photo: Robert Kühnen 9th Wave Dirt-SW27: Excellent construction with high-flange hubs and asymmetric carbon rims. Unfortunately too sensitive to impacts for rough terrain.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT ACROS A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5

  Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5Photo: Georg Grieshaber Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5


Price / Info 1199 Euro acros.de
Description of the Carbon rim, 28 triple-crossed aero spokes CX Ray (2.0 / 0.9 x 2.2 / 2.0), toothed disc freehub
Available Diameter 27,5" / 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole, centre lock
Available Front axle standards 15 x 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards 12 x 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2,5"
Max. Rider weight / disc size without / 200 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29.4 / 585.4 mm
Weight² VR 664 g / HR 741 g / total 1405 g
Stiffness VR 73 N/mm / HR 59 N/mm
Inertia VR 363 kg x cm²/ HR 360 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5: medium variations front and rearPhoto: BIKE Magazin Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5: medium variations front and rear


Spoke tension deviation VR 39/21 %, HR 39/22 %
Weight² (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion Lightest wheelset in the test. Thin spokes and asymmetric carbon rim reduce weight and inertia with very good stiffness. Not sufficiently impact-resistant for rocky terrain.


BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD

  Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5: The off-centre spoke holes ensure even tension on the left and right. Mechanically excellent, except for the weakness in the impact test.Photo: Robert Kühnen Acros A-Wheel ED Race Boost Carbon 27.5: The off-centre spoke holes ensure even tension on the left and right. Mechanically excellent, except for the weakness in the impact test.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT BONTRAGER Line Pro 30

  Bontrager Line Pro 30Photo: Georg Grieshaber Bontrager Line Pro 30


Price / Info 1200 Euro trekbikes.com
Description of the Carbon rim, 28 triple-crossed Aerolite spokes (2.0 / 1.5 / 2.0), incl. TL tape
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-holeCentrelock
Available Front axle standards 15 x 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards 12 x 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.2" to 2.6"
Max. Rider weight / disc size No restriction


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 28.6 / 586.9 mm
Weight² VR 750 g / HR 892 g / total 1642 g
Stiffness VR 74 N/mm / HR 64.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 436 kg x cm² / HR 442 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Bontrager Line Pro 30: Good distribution, rear left a little slackly tensionedPhoto: BIKE Magazin Bontrager Line Pro 30: Good distribution, rear left a little slackly tensioned


Spoke tension deviation VR 20/18 %, HR 25/12 %
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 4 out of 10 points


Conclusion Top for tubeless: Profiled plastic band and pronounced tubeless horn/bed allow the tyre to lock firmly into the oversized tyre seat. Early delamination costs points.


BIKE judgement³ GOOD

  Bontrager Line Pro 30: UST rim with crisp tyre fit - none has a larger diameter in the test. Great finish, but unfortunately not sufficiently impact-resistant.Photo: Robert Kühnen Bontrager Line Pro 30: UST rim with crisp tyre fit - none has a larger diameter in the test. Great finish, but unfortunately not sufficiently impact-resistant.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT BULLS Hattori

  Bulls HattoriPhoto: Georg Grieshaber Bulls Hattori


Price / Info 1199 Euro bulls.com
Description of the Carbon rim, 28 double-crossed spokes (2.0 / 1.6 / 2.0)
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole, Centrelock
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 mm, 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2,5"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 115 kg system / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 31.8 / 586.2 mm
Weight² VR 730 g / HR 884 g / total 1614 g
Stiffness VR 88 N/mm / HR 70.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 408 kg x cm² / HR 414 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Bulls Hattori: very uneven tension at the front and rearPhoto: BIKE Magazin Bulls Hattori: very uneven tension at the front and rear


Spoke tension deviation VR 38/64 %, HR 48/35 %
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 4 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion The voluminous wide rim sits stiffly between the flanges, but is not very impact-resistant. In addition, the spoking is quite uneven. Rim appears to be identical to Castle


BIKE judgement³ GOOD

  Bulls Hattori: The thick wide rim is recommended exclusively for tubeless tyres. Visually, the whole thing is very harmonious, but reveals weaknesses in the impact test.Photo: Robert Kühnen Bulls Hattori: The thick wide rim is recommended exclusively for tubeless tyres. Visually, the whole thing is very harmonious, but reveals weaknesses in the impact test.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT CASTLE CC Morgenstern 27.5"

  Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5"Photo: Georg Grieshaber Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5"


Price / Info 1499 Euro castlecc.de
Description of the Carbon rim, triple-crossed aero spokes 2 / 2, 3 x 1, incl. TL tape, valves
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm, Lefty
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width no limitation, 2.4" rec.
Max. Rider weight / disc size 130 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 31.7 / 586.2 mm
Weight² VR 694 g / HR 797 g / total 1491 g
Stiffness VR 65 N/mm / HR 52 N/mm
Inertia VR 409 kg x cm² / HR 413 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5": Left rear low base tension, otherwise solidPhoto: BIKE Magazin Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5": Left rear low base tension, otherwise solid


Spoke tension deviation VR 29/16 %, HR 10/29 %
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 8 out of 10 points


Conclusion The rim appears to be identical to Bulls, but is one step more robust in the impact test. The build quality is very good, and Castle comes third on points.


BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD

  Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5": Delicate knife spokes bind the thick carbon rim to the flanges. This reduces the stiffness of the rear wheel. However, it is somewhat more impact-resistant than the visually identical Bulls rim.Photo: Robert Kühnen Castle CC Morgenstern 27.5": Delicate knife spokes bind the thick carbon rim to the flanges. This reduces the stiffness of the rear wheel. However, it is somewhat more impact-resistant than the visually identical Bulls rim.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT SYNTACE C33i Straight

  Syntace C33i Straight CarbonPhoto: Georg Grieshaber Syntace C33i Straight Carbon


Price / Info 1480 Euro syntace.com
Description of the Carbon rim, 28 triple-crossed spokes (1.8 / 1.7 / 2.0), toothed disc freewheel
Available Diameter 26", 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2,6"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 110 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 32.9 / 585.7 mm
Weight² VR 764 g / HR 835 g / total 1599 g
Stiffness VR 76.5 N/mm / HR 66.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 438 kg x cm² / HR 427 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Syntace C33i Straight Carbon: Low basic tension, but quite evenPhoto: BIKE Magazin Syntace C33i Straight Carbon: Low basic tension, but quite even


Spoke tension deviation VR 18/18 %, HR 27/24 %
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 5 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 10 out of 10 points


Conclusion Test winner on points. The carbon rim can withstand very hard impacts without damage. Expensive, but more robust than the aluminium wheels. Great trail wheel. If carbon, then like this!


BIKE judgement³ SUPER


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT DT SWISS M1700 Spline 30

  DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30Photo: Georg Grieshaber DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30


Price / Info 648 Euro dtswiss.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 28 triple-cross DT Comp straight-pull spokes, toothed disc freehub
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole, Centrelock
Available Front axle standards 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width No restriction
Max. Rider weight / disc size 120 kg / 210 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29.7 / 585.2 mm
Weight² VR 852 g / HR 975 g / total 1827 g
Stiffness VR 93 N/mm / HR 74.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 497 kg x cm² / HR 511 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30: Very evenly tensionedPhoto: BIKE Magazin DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30: Very evenly tensioned


Spoke tension deviation VR 10/20 %, HR 14/11 %
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion Very evenly tensioned and stiff tyres. The small diameter of the tyre seat is not ideal for tubeless, but the tyres still packed air well when mounted.


BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD

  DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30: Robust appearance with a voluminous, oiled rim. The dents indicate a low material strength of the rim. The tyre seat is small compared to the others.Photo: Robert Kühnen DT Swiss M1700 Spline 30: Robust appearance with a voluminous, oiled rim. The dents indicate a low material strength of the rim. The tyre seat is small compared to the others.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT E*THIRTEEN TRS+

  E*Thirteen TRS+Photo: Georg Grieshaber E*Thirteen TRS+


Price / Info 798 Euro bythehive.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 28 triple-crossed 2.0 / 1.6 / 2.0 spokes, incl. TL band, valves
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.1" to 2.5"
Max. Rider weight / disc size no restriction / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 28.3 / 586 mm
Weight² VR 908 g / HR 1041 g / total 1949 g
Stiffness VR 70 N/mm / HR 62.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 482 kg x cm² / HR 482 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  E*Thirteen TRS+: Very evenly tensionedPhoto: BIKE Magazin E*Thirteen TRS+: Very evenly tensioned


Spoke tension deviation VR 10/15 %, HR 22/11 %
Weight² (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 8 out of 10 points


Conclusion The eye-catchers are the generously dimensioned hubs, which also weigh a lot. The fairly robust rims are prepared for tubeless mounting and the construction is flawless


BIKE judgement³ GOOD

  E*Thirteen TRS+: The voluminous hubs stand out visually, almost as thick as a hub dynamo. But underneath the metal casing, the traditionally stored hubs are simply hollow.Photo: Robert Kühnen E*Thirteen TRS+: The voluminous hubs stand out visually, almost as thick as a hub dynamo. But underneath the metal casing, the traditionally stored hubs are simply hollow.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULTS MAVIC XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35

  Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35Photo: Georg Grieshaber Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35


Price / Info 600 Euro mavic.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 24 double-crossed aero spokes 2 / 1.0 x 2.8, incl. tyres, axle adapters, TL valve and tape
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm, Lefty
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 1.4" to 2.7"
Max. Rider weight / disc size recomm. System weight 120 kg


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 24.8 / 585.5 mm
Weight² VR 808 g / HR 912 g / total 1720 g
Stiffness VR 73.5 N/mm / HR 62.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 454 kg x cm² / HR 452 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35: Overall strong fluctuations front and rearPhoto: BIKE Magazin Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35: Overall strong fluctuations front and rear


Spoke tension deviation VR 37/61%, HR 87/56%
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 5 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 4 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion Mavic milled the rim extensively - without much effect on inertia or weight. The stiffness is very good, but the build quality is only mediocre


BIKE judgement³ GOOD

  Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35: Frog green is the colour that sets the French brand apart. Even with the elaborately over-milled rim, which is quite narrow in this test field at just under 25 millimetres.Photo: Robert Kühnen Mavic XA Elite 27.5 Green 2.35: Frog green is the colour that sets the French brand apart. Even with the elaborately over-milled rim, which is quite narrow in this test field at just under 25 millimetres.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT NEWMEN Evolution SL A.30

  Newmen Evolution SL A 30Photo: Georg Grieshaber Newmen Evolution SL A 30


Price / Info 698 Euro newmen-components.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 28 three-cross Sapim D-Light straightpull spokes (2.0 / 1.65 / 2.0), toothed disc rim.
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.25" to 2.8"; recommended 2.4"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 125 kg system / 225 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29.7 / 585.9 mm
Weight² VR 753 g / HR 844 g / total 1597 g
Stiffness VR 68.5 N/mm / HR 63 N/mm
Inertia VR 457 kg x cm² / HR 459 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Newmen Evolution SL A.30: Very evenly tensionedPhoto: BIKE Magazin Newmen Evolution SL A.30: Very evenly tensioned


Spoke tension deviation VR 12/9 %, HR 14/12 %
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 9 out of 10 points


Conclusion The best aluminium wheel in the test: light, wide and exceptionally dent-resistant. The hubs are finely adjustable and perfectly spoked. Dream wheel at a fair price


BIKE judgement³ SUPER

  Newmen Evolution SL A.30: Not only the rims are impressive, the lightweight hubs are also gems with adjustable bearing play. Just don't lock too tightly, which reduces the durability of the bearings.Photo: Robert Kühnen Newmen Evolution SL A.30: Not only the rims are impressive, the lightweight hubs are also gems with adjustable bearing play. Just don't lock too tightly, which reduces the durability of the bearings.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT SPANK Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset Boost

  Spank Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset BoostPhoto: Georg Grieshaber Spank Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset Boost


Price / Info 645 Euro spank-ind.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 32 triple-crossed straight-pull spokes (2.0 / 1.8 / 2.0)
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.1" to 2.6"
Max. Rider weight / disc size without restriction / 200 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29.9 / 587 mm
Weight² VR 923 g / HR 995 g / total 1918 g
Stiffness VR 78 N/mm / HR 63.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 476 kg x cm² / HR 481 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Spank Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset Boost: High tension, low fluctuationsPhoto: BIKE Magazin Spank Oozy Trail 345 Wheelset Boost: High tension, low fluctuations


Spoke tension deviation VR 20/27 %, HR 21/16 %
Weight² (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 9 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 5 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion Tightly spoked, wide rim with unusual, wave-shaped bed for the best tubless handling. Average buckling behaviour. Well built and stiff. Quite heavy


BIKE judgement³ GOOD


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT SUN RINGLÈ Düroc 30 Expert AL

  Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert ALPhoto: Georg Grieshaber Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL


Price / Info 610 Euro sunringle.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 28 triple crossed Wheelsmith spokes (2.0 / 1.8 / 2.0)
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100/110 mm
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.0" to 2.3"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 150 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 27 / 585.8 mm
Weight² VR 805 g / HR 942 g / total 1747 g
Stiffness VR 59 N/mm / HR 48.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 414 kg x cm² / HR 442 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL: Front wheel very hard spoked, solid distributionPhoto: BIKE Magazin Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL: Front wheel very hard spoked, solid distribution


Spoke tension deviation VR 14/17 %, HR 24/26 %
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 4 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 4 out of 10 points


Conclusion Very well tensioned, but sensitive to impact: The rim buckles early and cracks at impact level 5. The concentricity tolerances are also not convincing


BIKE judgement³ SATISFACTORY

  Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL: The straight-pull spokes are sufficiently dimensioned. The fact that the rear wheel stiffness is not very high must be due to the rim.Photo: Robert Kühnen Sun Ringlé Düroc 30 Expert AL: The straight-pull spokes are sufficiently dimensioned. The fact that the rear wheel stiffness is not very high must be due to the rim.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT VELTEC ETR-ExtraThree 27.5"

  Veltec ETR-ExtraThree 27.5"Photo: Georg Grieshaber Veltec ETR-ExtraThree 27.5"


Price / Info 491 Euro veltec.de
Description of the Aluminium rim, 32 triple-cross DT-Comp spokes (2.0 / 1.8 / 2.0)
Available Diameter 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-hole
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100/110 mm, 20x100
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148 / 150, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.4" to 3.0"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 110 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 30.5 / 584.6 mm
Weight² VR 804 g / HR 928 g / total 1732 g
Stiffness VR 85.5 N/mm / HR 70.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 450 kg x cm² / HR 453 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Veltec ETR-ExtraThree 27.5": High tensions, somewhat irregular at the frontPhoto: BIKE Magazin Veltec ETR-ExtraThree 27.5": High tensions, somewhat irregular at the front


Spoke tension deviation VR 19/54 %, HR 27/11 %
Weight² (20 %) 7 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 5 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 6 out of 10 points


Conclusion Particularly favourable wheelset from the Eifel. Hard spoked, stiff, with an attractive weight for the price. The tyre seat is small - not ideal for tubeless sealing


BIKE judgement³
GOOD


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)

TEST RESULT WHIZZ WHEELS LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3

  Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Booster / ZTR Flow MK3Photo: Georg Grieshaber Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Booster / ZTR Flow MK3


Price / Info 695 Euro whizz-wheels.com
Description of the Aluminium rim, 32 triple-cross DT-Comp spokes (2.0 / 1.8 / 2.0), incl. TL tape
Available Diameter 26", 27,5", 29"
Available Brake mounts 6-holeCentrelock
Available Front axle standards QR¹, 15 x 100 / 110 mm
Available Rear axle standards QR¹, 12 x 142 / 148, Shimano / XD
Max. tyre width Tyre width 2.1 "to 3.0"
Max. Rider weight / disc size 113 kg / 203 mm


MEASURED VALUES
Rim width (inside) / tyre fit 29 / 586.7 mm
Weight² VR 898 g / HR 1003 g / total 1901 g
Stiffness VR 93.5 N/mm / HR 75.5 N/mm
Inertia VR 492 kg x cm² / HR 493 kg x cm²
Polar diagram VR / HR (spoke tension in Newtons, red: right side, blue: left side)

  Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3: medium variations front and rearPhoto: BIKE Magazin Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3: medium variations front and rear


Spoke tension deviation VR 20/38 %, HR 42/11 %
Weight² (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Inertia (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Stiffness (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Concentricity (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
Voltage distribution (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
Impact resistance (30 %) 4 out of 10 points


Conclusion The large shoulder diameter ensures a tight tubeless fit. With plenty of spokes, the construction is very stiff. However, the flat rim flanges are not very impact-resistant.


BIKE judgement³ GOOD

  Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3: Traditional wheel construction with the latest generation of NoTubes rims. The rim is flat and could be more impact-resistant. It gets hairline cracks early on.Photo: BIKE Magazin Whizz Wheels LRS DT 350 Boost / ZTR Flow MK3: Traditional wheel construction with the latest generation of NoTubes rims. The rim is flat and could be more impact-resistant. It gets hairline cracks early on.


¹QR stands for Quick Release = normal quick release
²Weight without thru axle / quick release incl. rim tape, ³BIKE judgement: rounded representation, total score is calculated without rounding.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (> 485 pts.), very good (436 to 485 pts.), good (386 to 435 pts.), satisfactory (336 to 385 pts.), with weaknesses (285 to 335 pts.), unsatisfactory (< 285 pts.)


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