Here is the best list of wheelsets for gravel bikes from 2023
In our list of the best carbon cyclocross wheels, of course, there are only high-priced models from many well-known manufacturers. These are often the absolute top models in the impeller sector at the highest level of technology. This was also reflected in the tests: none of the tested wheelsets showed major weaknesses and the differences were often to be found in small nuances.
How did we test the Cyclocross Carbon wheels?
Of course, we tested every single wheel set in the appropriate conditions and in the intended area of use: All wheels had to prove themselves on a cross course, and there different characteristics come into play than on the road: Stiffness and handling, for example, are much more important here than aerodynamics , since such high speeds are simply not achieved that this would be a decisive factor. The same applies to the weight of the wheels: Even if 200g is always 200g, whether on the road or in the forest, the extra weight doesn't play that much of a role in off-road use. Added to this is the greater importance of good braking properties, even in the wet.
In order to create the same conditions as possible for all wheels, we rode each set with the same tires. The choice fell on the rightly also very popular in the professional sector Schwalbe RocketRon. At this point, once again, many thanks Schwalbe for providing the test tires.
components: Shimano Dura-Ace C50: Weight isn't everything
One of my favorites is without a doubt the Shimano Dura Ace C50. The wheels offer good handling and are very agile in their riding style, which is particularly evident in cross. In addition to the comfortable and stable driving style, I liked the clean processing of the carbon rim. Especially from wet meadows you have the wheels in curves […]
components: Lightweight milestone: Noble and sensitive
The 4th generation of the milestones should be the best Lightweight has ever built. And that's the impression we had of them. Lightweight was able to up the ante and gave them more control when driving and better braking than ever. The logos on the rim are lasered in from model year 2014 and appear […]
components: Citec 6000 CX: brake master
Stability and aerodynamics are very important to the Citec 6000 CX. With only 16 spokes in the front wheel and 18 in the rear wheel, annoying air turbulence is reduced. However, this property is not decisive in cross-country skiing in order to cut a good figure off-road. However, the type of spokes is an important aspect. The arcless special spokes and the patented Power Block sleeves, […]
components: Ritchey WCS Apex Carbon: Stiff and convincing
An important feature of the Ritchey WCS Apex Tubular are the new lightweight Phantom hubs. The combination of conventional spokes and straight-pull spokes also saves some weight, but does not detract from the stiffness of the wheels. Due to this rigidity you have a noticeably good acceleration and a very good driving experience even when pedaling out of the saddle. The particularly […]
components: 3T Orbis T40 LTD: Simple eye-catcher
At first glance, the wheelset convinces with its unobtrusive, simple design, but the 3T Orbis T40 LTD stand out from the crowd. The unusual spoke holder in the rim makes this wheel set an eye-catcher. The CX-Ray bladed spokes from Sapim hooked into the rim provide the necessary stability. The spokes are tensioned at the hub […]
components: Vision Metron 40 – Convincing specialist
With its new model, Vision Metron 40, FSA is launching a new high-quality and stable wheel that is specially designed for cyclocross courses, cobblestone streets and spring classics. Thanks to the very good braking properties required for classics, these wheels always give you the feeling of having complete control of the bike, even in adverse weather conditions. The peculiarity of […]
components: Fulcrum Racing Speed XLR - Durable lightweight
Lightness is a top priority with the Fulcrum Racing Speed XLR. With only 1324g at a rim height of 50mm, the wheelset is one of the top 3 in our test in terms of weight components. In addition to the rim, the hub bodies are also made of carbon, which not only ensures low weight, but also high lateral rigidity of the […]
components: Roval Rapide CLX 40 Carbon: Light all-rounder
With the Rapide CLX 40 carbon wheelset, Specialized releases a new high-performance all-round wheelset. The optimized rim is very aerodynamic and the high rigidity speaks for a direct driving style and high driving stability. In addition, the rim has a slightly wider inner profile, which reduces rolling resistance. The low weight also speaks for the all-round capabilities of these wheels. For one […]
components: Airstreeem Carbon Aero 50: Asymmetrical with play
We found a very special feature in the Airstreeem Carbon Aero 50, which gives this wheelset its very own signature. The rear wheel rim is constructed asymmetrically, enabling even spoke tension on the drive and non-drive side and increasing rigidity throughout the wheel. This innovative and patented rim construction also has no negative effects on braking performance. At […]