The Swiss component manufacturer DT Swiss is expanding its range in the mountain bike segment with a new series of carbon rims. The Pure MTB Carbon range comprises three models for different areas of use: XRC 310 for cross-country, XMC 320 for all-mountain and EXC 330 for enduro. According to DT Swiss, the rims are particularly light and robust at the same time thanks to a new manufacturing process.
Innovative manufacturing technology
The centrepiece of the new rim series is a patented manufacturing process. This makes it possible to construct each rim in a single mould from the outside in. Maximum compression of the carbon layers is intended to minimise air inclusions, resulting in more uniform material properties and greater durability. In contrast to conventional manufacturing, in which the parts of a carbon rim are produced separately and then joined together, the new process allows a continuous fibre structure on the sensitive rim flange.
Surface directly from the mould
Another special feature of the Pure MTB carbon rims is the surface finish. The outermost carbon layer enables a high-quality surface directly from the mould without the need for further processing steps. The absence of a final coating also saves weight.
Comprehensive quality control
To ensure the quality of each individual rim, DT Swiss says it uses a patented quality control process. This makes it possible to scan each rim down to the level of individual layers. This means that rims with material defects can be sorted out before they go on sale.
Model-specific reinforcements
Depending on the area of use and the expected load, the rims are reinforced with additional carbon layers. This "Carbon Shield Technology" surrounds the entire rim and reinforces the rim flanges with long, uninterrupted fibres. This should serve as a protective shield against impacts and stronger impacts and prevent weakening between the carbon layers. The number of additional carbon layers increases according to the expected area of use.
Three models for different areas of application
The DT Swiss XRC 310 rim is designed for cross-country use and is the lightest carbon MTB rim in the portfolio. The XMC 320 for all-mountain use is aimed at versatility and is designed to provide an efficient and reliable wheel. DT Swiss has developed the EXC 330 for enduro use, which should be particularly robust and also forgive aggressive line choices.
Crash replacement and extended warranty
DT Swiss offers a "fair share policy" for the carbon rims. In the event of damage caused by riding errors or crashes that impair the function, customers can have the rim replaced at a reduced price. The personal contribution is 179 euros per wheel.
Technical specifications of the new DT Swiss carbon rims
XRC 310
- Dimension: 622x30 mm
- ERD: 602 mm
- Weight: 373 g
- Material: Carbon
- Number of holes: 28
- Max. System weight: 110 kg
- ASTM category: 3
- RRP: from 599 euros
XMC 320
- Dimensions: 584x30 mm (27.5"), 622x30 mm (29")
- ERD: 561 mm (27.5"), 601 mm (29")
- Weight: 440 g (27.5"), 470 g (29")
- Material: Carbon
- Number of holes: 28
- Max. System weight: 120 kg
- ASTM category: 4
- RRP: from 599 euros
EXC 330
- Dimensions: 584x30 mm (27.5"), 622x30 mm (29")
- ERD: 561 mm (27.5"), 601 mm (29")
- Weight: 500 g (27.5"), 535 g (29")
- Material: Carbon
- Number of holes: 28, 32
- Max. System weight: 130 kg
- ASTM category: 5
- RRP: from 599 euros
