Carbon wheels are like carbon frames. The very first ones fuelled controversial discussions in the MTB scene. Revered by some, reviled by others, they nevertheless found their way onto the market - although the very first models did not cut a good figure. Frequent breakages due to minimal hairline cracks, caused either by direct force or by normal stresses and assembly-line production.
And even after a certain amount of time, carbon frames still had the reputation of being ready for the dustbin after just one encounter with a stone or root. This may still be acceptable for a frame, but it's definitely not an option for a rim that is literally pre-programmed to encounter stones and roots.
However, just like carbon frames, carbon fibre rims have become better and better over the years. Today, they are light and reliable at the same time. But still expensive! Nevertheless, it took a long time for the first major companies to offer carbon fibre system wheels. DT Swiss dropped the hammer last year, and now Mavic is also on board.
Is the Mavic XA Pro Carbon competition for the DT Swiss XM 1200 Spline?
XA Pro Carbon is the name of the new flagship trail wheelset from Mavic and is in direct competition with the DT Swiss XM 1200 Spline. The wheelset is available in 27.5 and 29 inches and weighs 1490 and 1535 grams respectively. This makes it nominally a good 70 grams heavier than the DT Swiss competitor. The rim width is 26 millimetres, the spokes are conventional steel spokes and the hubs are both made of aluminium.
When it comes to compatibility, the customer has a free choice: Shimano or Sram freehub, Boost or conventional thru axle. The wheelset is even compatible with quick-releases using adapters. Also praiseworthy: The permissible system weight is 120 kilograms. Mavic also recommends tyre widths of 1.4 to 2.7 inches. Tubeless compatibility goes without saying.
The XA Pro Carbon was designed for trail use. Smaller jumps were just as much a part of the development specifications as rough trail descents, long durability and predictable handling despite the low weight. However, it is obvious that so much technology is not cheap. Mavic is asking 1700 euros for the wheelset, which will be available from September.
More about the Mavic XA Pro Carbon.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
