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Acros Trail-Carbon
Previously only represented in the cross-country and enduro segment, Acros is now also targeting bikers without a racing licence with its trail carbon wheels. The hookless carbon rim with an asymmetrical profile is designed to offer high stability and puncture resistance. In favour of durability, the hub body runs on stately 19-millimetre axles. A speciality of Acros: the volume of the freewheel can be adjusted in three stages. Stealth mode or wasp swarm - the biker has the choice here.
From 1500 grams | 1299 euros | 29 millimetres inside dimension
DT Swiss M1900
In addition to all the carbon wheels, DT Swiss supplies the New edition of the popular 1900 spline series probably the most important aluminium wheel innovation. The entry-level models in the Swiss range now also come with the toothed disc freehub, which was previously reserved for more expensive models. Compared to the previous pawl design, this should improve the engagement angle and durability. As before, the 1900 wheels are available in a weight-optimised version. X-1900- (Cross-Country), as stable E-1900- (Enduro) and as M-1900 variant for trail use.
1894 grams | 449 euros | 30 millimetres inside dimension
Newmen SL X.A.30
With a weight of 1325 grams in 29 inches, the SL X.A.30 is really light, even by cross-country standards. Extra-light rims ensure fast acceleration, and thanks to the quiet fade freewheel, you can sneak up on your opponents unnoticed. But the SL X.A.30 should also cut a fine figure in trail use. The internal dimension of 30 millimetres and the permissible system weight of 125 kilograms are strong for the intended use. Nevertheless, anyone who likes to hit the rocks at full throttle on a modern all-mountain bike should look for something more stable.
1325 grams | 1675 euros | 30 millimetres inside dimension
Bike Ahead Three Zero
The exclusive Three-Zero wheelset laminated by the carbon specialists at Bike Ahead in Würzburg. However, the highlight of this wheel is not just the weight: the special rim profile with a completely circumferential laminate should make the rim particularly resistant to punctures. The special shape of the rim should also provide better support for the tyre and prevent the tyre from buckling even at extremely low pressures.
from 1380 grams | 2499 euros | 30 millimetres inside dimension
Mavic Crossmax XL R
Although the completely newly developed Crossmax XL R, like all Mavic wheels, is manufactured entirely in France, it is one of the most affordable entry points into the world of carbon wheels. Although the Mavic wheels are not super light, they fulfil the ASTM 4 enduro standard and score points with beautiful details such as the hand-finished rims and the extremely finely toothed disc freehub. The spokes, which are kept in one length throughout, make the mechanic's work easier if necessary. If you register the wheel with Mavic, the warranty is valid for the life of the first owner.
1595 grams | 1250 euros | 30 millimetres inside dimension
The right tyres for down-country bikes
Light trail rims are of little use if heavy tyres slow down propulsion. In line with the ever-growing group of cross-country full-suspension bikes with dropper posts, long forks and more suspension travel, tyre manufacturers are now launching their own down-country models. Weighing around 800 grams, these tyres also cut a fine figure on lightweight trail bikes. Right at the front: Swallow with the Wicked Willwho is in a first test with very low rolling resistance and good traction, even in the wet. Also new is the Vittoria Syerrawhich, like the Schwalbe, sits between the cross-country tyres and the now quite heavy touring tyres in terms of weight and intended use. Corresponding models from other manufacturers are set to follow in 2022.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
