Under 1000g wheelset is a New Standard? Deep Dive into the 1015g MTB Wheelset
Is Sub-1100g the New Standard? A Deep Dive into the 1015g Carbon MTB Wheelset
In the world of cross-country (XC) mountain biking, weight has always been king. But we’ve reached a point where “lightweight” isn’t enough—wheels now need to be wide, stiff, and resilient enough to handle increasingly technical World Cup-style descents.
Today, we’re looking at a wheelset that tips the scales at a staggering 1015g. Is this just another lightweight carbon hoop, or is it a glimpse into the future of MTB performance?
The Rim: Breaking the “Triangle” Mold
The heart of this wheelset is a rim that measures 36mm externally and 30mm internally. In recent years, 30mm has become the “golden ratio” for XC, allowing riders to run lower tire pressures for better traction without the tire squirming under load.
What makes this specific rim fascinating is its 22mm depth and its profile:
- The “Circular” Advantage: By designing a profile that is “closer to a circle” rather than a traditional deep V or box section, the rim gains incredible radial compliance.
- Ride Quality: This shape helps the wheel absorb trail chatter and harsh impacts, reducing rider fatigue and keeping the tire glued to the ground.
- Strength-to-Weight: At only 22mm deep, it sheds unnecessary material while maintaining the structural integrity needed for aggressive riding.
The Spokes: 3.5mm Carbon Power
The most striking visual—and technical—feature is the use of 3.5mm wide carbon spokes.
- Bladed for Speed: These aren’t just round sticks; their width provides significant lateral stiffness, ensuring that when you out-of-the-saddle sprint, every watt goes into forward motion.
- T-Head Design: Utilizing T-head carbon spokes is a premium touch. It prevents the spoke from twisting during the build and truing process, ensuring the carbon fibers remain perfectly aligned for maximum tension and longevity.
The Hub: Lightweight Muscle
The 308g Boost version hub (24H) acts as the anchor for this featherweight build. Achieving a 308g weight for a Boost-spaced hub set while maintaining durable bearings and a reliable engagement system is a feat of engineering. With a 24-hole count, the wheel balances weight savings with enough structural points to handle the high torque of modern 12-speed drivetrains.
The Verdict: Is it a Game Changer?
At 1015g, this wheelset is firmly in the “super-light” category, rivaling the most expensive factory builds on the market. However, it’s the combination of the 30mm internal width and the compliant circular rim profile that makes it interesting.
It isn’t just a climbing wheel; it’s designed to be a “down-country” weapon that offers:
- Instant Acceleration: Minimal rotational mass.
- Superior Traction: Wide rim base for modern 2.25″–2.4″ tires.
- Damping: The low-profile circular rim avoids the “harsh” feeling often associated with cheap carbon.
