In contrast, the engineers have really let off steam with the technical details. The hookless rims are quite wide at 25 millimetres (measured internally), which optimises the contact area of the tyres and thus guarantees the best possible grip. High-quality fibres were also used, which keeps the weight low and ensures stability at the same time. The top-mounted Boost hubs with the Straigt-Pull flanges round off the positive overall picture. The new XCR 1 is a performance show, even if the weight of 1648 grams is only in the midfield.
Stiff, robust, affordable and light enough for marathons - that sums up their character. They are also impressive on the trail. When sprinting from a standstill, the high stiffness is immediately noticeable. The power fed into the cranks is noticeably converted into acceleration without any loss. Otherwise, the XCR1s ride inconspicuously. The freewheel engages precisely and is barely audible when rolling along. It whirrs along as quiet as a whisper. As if it didn't want you to know it was there. For some, this may be too much of an understatement for a wheelset costing over 1000 euros. However, if you are simply looking for a pair of robust, good wheels, the XCR1 is a good choice.
Weight 1648 grams (29 inch)
Price 1100 Euro
Commentary on the Giant XCR1 wheels by BIKE reporter Henri Lesewitz
There are trendier wheels and some with a cooler freewheel sound. The XCR1 doesn't want to be spectacular. They want to perform at their best, nothing more. That's a good thing.
You can find this article in BIKE 2/2019. You can read the entire digital edition in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or the print edition in the DK shop reorder - while stocks last:
