The raised rims, together with the 28 bladed spokes and the oversized hub, create an intimidating image for the competitors in the starting block. The hissing of the freewheel further emphasises this. Racers in particular are likely to enjoy the torsionally stiff wheels, which are manufactured near Venice. The uneven, special surface is also intended to protect the carbon fibre structure more consistently from stone impacts than rounded shapes. After several hundred kilometres in mud, cold and road salt, the 29-inch wheels run as smoothly as on the first day. The spoke tension also remains constant. However, you should be able to expect this at the high price. We tested the CC version with clincher rims (90kg weight limit). Hub adapters are available for quick releases, Lefty forks and common thru-axle diameters.
Functionality ***** (five out of a maximum of 6 stars)
Shelf life ****** (six out of a maximum of 6 stars)
Price 2266 Euro
Weight 1369 grammes
Info www.alchemistbikes.com
