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Your complete guide to the 2021 trek mountain bike range.

Trek has had a long-standing presence in the mountain bike world with a vast range of bikes to back it up. The brands offering ranges from featherweight cross country bikes right through to downhill thoroughbreds. If you're in the market for a Trek bike and wondering which will suit you best, read on for our complete guide to their 2021 range.

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2021 Trek mountain bikes

• Full Stache
• Supercaliber

Understanding Trek's naming system

Trek's naming system follows a similar style to how Canyon names its bikes. Each bike's name is suffixed with a number, with higher value numbers corresponding to pricier and better-kitted bikes. Once we get to 9, Trek adds decimals to the suffix to denote changes in the bike's suspension package. All bikes with a 9 in the name get carbon frames but a 9.7 might get its suspension from Fox's Rhythm range for example, while a 9.8 will get better something from higher in the range. Also, you'll see that a lot of kit on the bikes come from Bontrager, for the uninitiated that's Trek's in-house component brand.

At the '9' level, we also see XT, XO1, and GX finding their way into the names. Yep, you've guessed it, that's the drivetrain the bike comes kitted with.

Another thing that's definitely worth mentioning is that a small selection of Trek's bike range is available through what the brand calls Project One. Project One offers the opportunity to have your bike personalised and custom painted with special, exclusive colours. This will mean you have to part ways with a heap of cash but in return, you'll get a bike that's unique to you.

As with the brand's range of bikes, the price range is vast with bikes starting from £440, right up to £9,200 and that's not even considering the Project One options. There's also a comprehensive range of gravel bikes and e-bikes.

Let's kick things off with the Slash. It's Trek's enduro bike which rolls on 29" wheels and gets 160mm of travel at the rear, paired with 170mm at the front. For 2021 it gets both an aluminium and carbon frame option all of which benefit from Trek's proprietary Knock Block system which saves your top and down tube if your front end spins during a crash. This bike also gets the Mino Link which is a geometry adjusting flip-chip, down tube guards threaded bottom brackets, an Active Braking Pivot, and storage in the downtube. As for the geometry, in the low setting, the Slash sees a 75.6° effective seat tube angle, a 64.1° head tube angle, and a 435mm chainstay. A large frame gets a 486mm reach. If you're after something a little more special, the Slash is available through Project One.

Slash 9.9 XTR

Topping the Slash range is the Slash 9.9 XTR. It gets Trek's OCLV carbon frame with the all-new RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock with an updated ThruShaft damper. At the front, you'll find the RockShox ZEB Ultimate RC2 which features chunky 38mm stanchions. As its name suggests there's a full Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain with an e*thirteen LG1 Race Carbon crank. The brakes here also come from the XTR lineup and they come with 4-pot calipers for extra stopping power. This bike rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line Pro 30 which are wrapped with a Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.6" Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewall, aramid bead tyre at the front and an SE5 Team Issue with the same spec in 2.4" at the rear. It also gets a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper with Bontrager supplying the 820mm wide carbon bar, 35mm stem along with the rest of the build kit.

Slash 9.9 XO1

The Slash 9.9 XO1 gets all of the same trimmings as the 9.9 XTR but benefits from a SRAM XO1 Eagle drivetrain and SRAM Code RSC Brakes, along with a slightly friendlier price tag.

Slash 9.8 GX

Shaving a few thousand pounds of the range-topper is the 9.8 GX. This one is still built around Trek's carbon frame but this one gets a slightly downgraded RockShox ZEB Select+ RC with a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate. Here we get a SRAM GX drivetrain with a matching crankset and SRAM Code R brakes. As for the rest of the bike, it's the same as the 9.9 XTR.

Slash 9.8 XT

As its name suggests, the Slash 9.8 XT gets a very similar built kit to the 9.8 GX. However, this bike sees a Shimano XT drivetrain with SLX M7120 four-piston brakes.

Dropping a full £1.8k off of the 9.8 models, the Slash 9.7 is still built around a carbon frame and it swaps the RockShox suspension with a Fox Rhythm 36 fork and a Fox Performance DPX2 EVOL shock. The drivetrain is a mix of SRAM GX and NX Eagle and the wheels here are the alloy Bontrager Line Comp 30's. Those come shod with a Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead 2.6" tyre at the front with a Bontrager XR4 with the same spec and a 2.4" width at the rear. Trek has also swapped the dropper post for a TransX post and there's Bontrager's own alloy finishing kit.

With the Slash 8, we no longer get a carbon frame but we do get a RockShox Lyric Select+ RC fork with a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate at the rear. This bike is driven by a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and there's a pair of SRAM Code R brakes. Everything else is the same as what you would get on the 9.7 model.

The Slash 7 rounds of the range with its alloy frame, RockShox Yari RC fork, RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock, and SRAM NX drivetrain. Here we get a pair of SRAM Guide T brakes and the rest of the bike follows suit with the 8.

Trek Remedy

The Remedy is Trek's long-legged trail bike which comes with four models for 2021. It rolls on 650b wheels and gets 160mm of travel at the front, with 150mm at the rear. Much like the Slash, the Remedy benefits from the Knock Block, the Active Braking Pivot, and the Mino Link. Geometry-wise, it gets a 65.6° head angle, a 74.2° effective seat tube angle, and 435mm chainstays in the low position. A large frame gets a 455mm reach, again in that low setting.

The Remedy 9.8 is the only bike in the 2021 line up that gets a carbon frame. It also gets a burly Fox Performance 38 paired with a Fox Performance Float DPX2 EVOL shock at the rear. This bike benefits from a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain matched with SRAM Code R brakes. As for the wheels, they're a pair of carbon Bontrager Line Elite 30's and they're wrapped with a Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls with an aramid bead in 2.6" with a Bontrager SE4 Team Issue with the same specs in the 2.4" width. Bontrager also supplies the dropper post with the Line Elite and the 820mm handlebar along with the 35mm stem.

As suggested by the lack of a '9' in its name, the Slash 8 comes kitted with an alloy frame. As for the fork, it's a RockShox Lyrik Select+ RC and that's paired with a RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ shock. This bike is also driven by a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain and it gets the same brakes as the 9.8 rig. Differing from the range-topper, this build sees in a pair of Bontrager Line Comp 30 alloy wheels which get an XR5 Team Issue tyre that's tubeless-ready with Inner Strength sidewalls and an aramid bead in 2.6", also from Bontrager. At the rear, there's an XR4 with the very same specification. The rest of the bike follows suit with the 9.8 model.

Remedy 8 XT

Rather unsurprisingly, the Remedy 8 XT comes with a very similar build to the 8 but gets an XT drivetrain and Deore M6120 four-pot brakes. Everything else on this build matches the Remedy 8.

The Remedy 7 is the cheapest 2021 Remedy on offer. It gets a RockShox Gold RL fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock. There's a SRAM NX drivetrain with SRAM Guide T brakes. Apart from that, everything else is the same as what you'll get on the Remedy 8's.

Trek Fuel EX

The Fuel EX is Trek's do it all trail bike. It gets 130mm of rear travel and 140mm at the front. Just like the Slash, the Fuel EX gets built-in downtube storage and the Active Braking Pivot. It comes with a RE:aktiv shock with Thru Shaft, something that you'll only find on Trek bikes. It promises more grip and control with a shock the reacts to the ground faster than anything else on the market, says Trek. This bike also gets the Mino Link, Knock Block, and Straight Shot downtube. The Fuel EX comes in five sizes with XS getting 650b hoops and M upwards getting 29" wheels. However, size S comes with a choice of either wheel size. As for the geometry in the low setting, the bike gets a 66° head angle, a 75° effective seat tube angle, and a 437mm chain stay. A large frame benefits from a 470mm reach.

Fuel EX 9.9 AXS

Topping the range with a pretty hefty pricetag is the 9.9 AXS. On this model, you'll get a Fox Factory 36 with a GRIP 2 damper, paired with a Fox Factory Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. Of course, we then get wireless shifting from SRAM and the AXS range along with a wireless RockShox Reverb AXS dropper. It rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels and they're wrapped with two Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads, measuring in with a 2.6" width at the front and a 2.4" at the rear. Bontrager supplies the finishing kit with a Knock Block stem and a 780mm OCLV carbon handlebar.

Fuel EX 9.9 XTR & XO1

Next up, the Fuel EX 9.9 XTR gets all of the bling. It's built around Trek's OCLV carbon frame and gets a Fox Factory 36 fork with a GRIP2 damper. At the back, there's a Fox Factory Float EVOL, RE:aktiv. As its name hints, this bike comes with a Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain with matching XTR M9120 four-piston brakes. There's also an option with a SRAM XO1 drivetrain with SRAM G2 RSC brakes. This one rolls on a pair of Bontrager Line Pro 30 OCLV carbon wheels which are wrapped in a pair of Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with the brand's Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid bead. At the front, there's a 2.6" tyre with a 2.4" at the rear on both wheel sizes. Then the bike comes kitted with a Bontrager Line Elite Dropper and the rest of the kit comes from the same brand.

Fuel EX 9.8 XT & GX

Offering a saving of over £2,000 over the top of the range bike is the 9.8 GX and XT. This bike comes with the same carbon frame as the most expensive bike but sees a downgrade in suspension and drivetrain. Here we get a Fox Performance 36 with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv shock. This rig comes with a choice of drivetrain with either SRAM's GX groupset or Shimano's XT. The GX build comes with SRAM G2 RS brakes whereas the XT model is stopped with a pair of Shimano SLX M7120 four-piston brakes. Everything else on these builds is the same as what you'll find on the 9.9 XTR model.

Fuel EX 9.7

The 9.7 is Trek's most affordable carbon-framed Fuel EX. It comes kitted with a Fox Rhythm 36 with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL shock. The drivetrain here is a mix of SRAM NX and GX with the former making up the shifter and the latter handing the mech. Gone are the carbon wheels, unfortunately, but instead we get a set of Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels wrapped in the very same tyres like the rest of the range. The rest of the bike follows suit with the pricier models but there's an alloy bar and stem.

Fuel EX 8 XT & GX

At the sub £3k mark Trek does away with the carbon frames and replaces them with cheaper alloy alternatives. On the priciest alloy option, we get a Fox Rythm 34 Float with a GRIP damper and a Fox Performance Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. On this build, there's a choice of either a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain or a Shimano XT with the former benefitting from SRAM G2 R brakes and the latter receiving a pair of Shimano MT4100 levers mated to MT420 four-piston callipers. This bike gets a pair of Bontrager Line Comp 30 alloy wheels and the rest of the build is the same as what you'll get on the 9.7 bike.

Fuel EX 7 NX

On the Fuel EX 7 NX we find a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork and a Fox Performance Float EVOL shock, note that this shock doesn't come with that special RE:aktiv tech. You've guessed it, this one comes equipped with a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain it gets its brakes from Shimano with a pair of MT4100 levers and MT410 callipers. The rest of the bike, including the wheels and tyres on this bike, is the same as the rest of the alloy range but we see a TransX dropper on this model.

Fuel EX 5 Deore

Rounding off the fairly extensive range is the reasonably priced Fuel EX Deore. It gets a RockShox Recon Silver fork with an X-Fusion Pro 2 shock. Then there's the Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes made up of MT201 levers and MT200 callipers. The wheels see a downgrade from the rest of the range with an Alex MD35 rim laced to Bontrager hubs. They're wrapped in a pair of Bontrager XR4 tyres and there's a TransX dropper post. The rest of the finishing kit comes from Bontrager.

Trek Top Fuel

Like it or not, but down-country bikes are becoming more and more prolific. Luckily for those who are on board with the trend Trek has a bike for you. It comes kitted with 120mm travel up front and 115mm at the rear with 29" wheels. In keeping with the rest of Trek's bikes so far the Top Fuel also gets a Straight Shot downtube and Trek's Active Braking Pivot. It's also kitted with the Mino Link and Control Freak cable management system. Moving onto the geometry, the Top Fuel sees a 68° head tube angle, a 75.7° effective seat tube angle and a 434mm chainstay. A large frame gets a 470mm reach and those numbers have been taken with the bike in its low setting. As for frame sizes, there's a choice from XS right up to XXL.

Top Fuel 9.9 XX1 AXS

A few hundred pounds shy of the 10k mark, this bike comes with all of the top tech. It's made around a carbon frame with a RockShox SID Ultimate fork with a Race Day Charger damper and a RockShox SID Luxe Ultimate shock. There's a RockShox TwistLoc Full Sprint lockout remote too. As for the drivetrain, here we get a SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 12-speed wireless set up with SRAM G2 Ultimate brakes. The wheels on this bike area pair of Bontrager Kovee Pro 30 Carbon hoops and they're kitted with a pair of Bontrager XR3 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads in a 2.4" width. Finally, there's a RockShox Reverb AXS wireless dropper post, Bontrager OCLV carbon bar with a 750mm width and 35mm clamp and a Bontrager stem.

Top Fuel 9.9 XTR & XO1

Next up, the Top Fuel XTR and XO1 models get the same carbon frame but this time there's a Fox Factory 34 Step Cast with a FIT4 damper paired with a Fox Factory Float shock. This bike also gets the RockShox Twistloc remote lockout. With this model, there's a choice of either a SRAM XO1 drivetrain or the Shimano XTR set up. The XO1 model gets SRAM G2 RSC four-piston brakes while the XTR gets XTR M9100 brakes. Everything else on the bike is the same as the AXS model but the dropper, which is a Bontrager Line Elite.

Top Fuel 9.8 XT & GX

The Top Fuel 9.8 sees a saving of £2.4k and gets its suspension from RockShox with the SID Select+ RL fork and RockShox SID Ultimate RL shock. There's a choice of drivetrain on this bike too between either a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed with SRAM G2 RSC brakes or a Shimano XT drivetrain with SLX M7000 brakes. Everything else on this bike is the same as its pricier brethren.

Top Fuel 9.7

The 9.7 model is the cheapest with a carbon frame and it comes with a RockShox Reba RL fork and a Fox Performance Float DPS shock. There's a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes consisting of MT501 levers and MT500 calipers. This bike makes a move to Bontrager Kovee Comp 23 alloy wheels and they get the same tyres as the rest of the range. We get an alloy cockpit and a Bontrager Line Dropper.

Top Fuel 8 NX

At this price point, Trek introduces alloy frames into the mix. With the 8 NX there's a RockShox Recon Gold RL Solo Air with a Fox Performance Float DPS. There's still a remote lockout here but it comes from Bontrager in the form of the Drop Lock. As its name suggests, this bike is driven by a SRAM NX drivetrain and it's stopped with a pair of SRAM Level T brakes. The rest of the bike is the same as what you'll find on the 9.7 model.

Top Fuel 7 SX

The Top Fuel 7 SX is the most affordable bike in the range featuring suspension from RockShox with the Judy SL Solo Air fork and the X-Fusion Pro 2 shock. There's a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT200 brakes. This one rolls on the same alloy wheels as the rest of the range with the same tyres. In fact, apart from the TransX dropper post, everything else matches the Top Fuel 8 NX.

Trek Full Stache

While the Full Stache hasn't had an update for 2021, it seems rude not to include it as there aren't an awful lot of full suspension 29+ bikes on the market. Of course, it rolls on 29" wheels with chunky 3" tyres. It also has 130mm of travel at both ends but the frame is compatible with up to a 140mm fork if you fancy some extra lairy riding. There's also the Mino Link, Control Freak cable management and the Knock Block. It's built around an aluminium frame and gets a 67° head tube angle, a 75.5° effective seat tube and a 430mm chainstay in the low setting. A large gets a 480mm reach, again in the low setting.

Full Stache 8

With its aluminium frame, you'll find a RockShox Pike Select Plus RC fork with a Fox Performance Float EVOL RE:aktiv shock. There's a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, aTruvativ Descendant 6k crank and SRAM Guide R brakes. This bike gets a pair of SUNringlé Duroc 40 SL wheels and they're shod with a pair of Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads. We get a Bontrager Line Dropper on this bike with a 780mm wide alloy bar, also from Bontrager.

Trek Supercaliber

Filling the role of the full suspension cross country bike is the rather unique looking Supercaliber. The standout feature of this bike is its IsoStrut suspension platform. It offers 60mm of fully tunable travel and what makes it special is that it does away with a rocker link thus saving a chunk of weight. The IsoStrut is also a structural feature of the frame which Trek says prevents twisting, flex and deflection which the brand claims offers a more direct power transfer. The whole range of Supercalibers feature carbon frames rolling on 29" hoops, Straight Shot downtube and the Knock Block. The geometry on this bike sees a 69° head angle, 74° seat tube angle and a 430mm chainstay. The reach of a large frame measures in at 455mm. There are six sizes from S to XXL and an ML size which gets a longer top tube than the M. Up front there's 100mm of travel.

Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 AXS

The Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 AXS takes the crown as Trek's most expensive mountain bike. It comes dripping with top-shelf kit such as the RockShox SID SL Ultimate with a Charger Race Day damper and a Fox Factory IsoStrut shock. This bike gets SRAMs XX1 Eagle AXS wireless drivetrain with the carbon crank and SRAM Level Ultimate brakes. It rolls on a pair of Bontrager Kovee XXX OCLV carbon wheels and they're wrapped with a set of 2.2" Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, tubeless ready tyres with Inner Strength Sidewalls and aramid beads. Then the finishing kit also comes from Bontrager and the line of carbon components, including a 720mm wide handlebar.

Supercaliber XX1 & XTR

Next up the Supercaliber 9.9 XX1 and XTR get all of the same kit as the priciest model but they drop the fancy wireless shifting. Instead, there's a choice of either a SRAM XX1 Eagle drivetrain with SRAM Level Ultimate brakes or a Shimano XTR drivetrain with XTR M9100 brakes.

Supercaliber XT & GX

Seeing a considerable saving from the rest of the range, the Supercaliber 9.8 GX and XT models get a downgraded Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast fork with a GRIP2 damper. There's also that IsoStrut suspension also provided by Fox but this model doesn't get that sleek Kashima coating, coming from the brands Performance line-up. These models come with a choice of either a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed groupset with both choices coming kitted with Shimano Deore XT M8100 brakes. Here we get a pair of Bontrager Kovee Pro 30 carbon wheels, then the rest of the kit is the same as what you would get on the other bikes.

Supercaliber 9.7

The Supercaliber 9.7 is the most budget-friendly option in the range. It's still built around that OCLV carbon frame and the Performance level IsoStrut shock but gets a RockShox Reba RL fork. This one is driven by a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain and it's stopped by brakes from Shimano with the MT501 levers and MT500 calipers. This model gets slightly narrower Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon wheels with the same XR2 tyres but the rest of the bike comes from Bontrager's alloy line of kit.

Trek Procaliber

The Procaliber is Trek's lightweight cross country hardtail. Compared to the Supercaliber it presents a mighty cash saving if you're looking for a race-ready XC bike. That doesn't mean that it's not without some cool tech, however. The Supercaliber benefits from what Trek calls the IsoSpeed decoupler which allows the set tube to rotate independently from the top tube to seatstay junction which Trek says offers some vertical compliance without sacrificing pedalling efficiency. As with the rest of the range, this bike gets the Straight Shot downtube and Knock Block too. Each bike in the Supercaliber line up comes with a carbon frame which rolls on 29" wheels and can fit up to 2.4" rubber. Here we see a 68.8° head angle, a 73.8° seat tube angle and 432mm a chainstay. A large frame benefits from a 450mm reach and there are six sizes, from S up to XL, including an ML size which gets a longer top tube than the M. The Procaliber gets 100mm of suspension.

Procaliber 9.8

Built around an OCLV carbon frame the Procaliber 9.8 comes with a Fox Performance 32 Step-Cast fork with a GRIP damper. It's driven by a Shimano XT drivetrain with Deore XT M8100 brakes but this one gets an e*thirteen TRS Race Carbon crank. The wheels here are a pair of Bontrager Kovee Elite 30 carbon wheels and there's a pair of Bontrager 2.2" XR2 Team Issue, tubeless-ready tyres with Inner Strength sidewalls and aramid beads. The rest of the kit comes from Bontrager too, with a 720mm wide carbon handlebar.

Procaliber 9.7

This model comes equipped with a RockShox Reba RL Solo Air and a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT501 brake levers hosed to MT500 calipers. This bike gets Bontrager's Kovee Elite 23 wheels, then the rest of the bike matches the 9.8 model.

Procaliber 9.6

On the 9.6 model of the Procaliber you'll get a RockShox Recon Gold RL and a mixture of Shimano kit making up the drivetrain. There's an SLX M7100 shifter and an XT M8100 derailleur. With this model there's the move over to alloy wheels, they come from Bontrager and the Kovee's. Then there are the same tyres as the rest of the range and an all-alloy finishing kit from Bontrager.

Procaliber 9.5

Finally the Procaliber line-up is rounded off with the 9.5. Even as the cheapest bike, it still gets that OCLV carbon frame but sees a RockShox Judy SL fork. There's a full Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano MT200 brakes. Then the rest of the bike features the same kit that you'll find on the 9.6 model.

Trek X-Caliber

If you're looking for a race-ready cross country bike but you're on a budget, the X-Caliber is the bike for you. Accommodating for its affordable price point is an aluminium frame rather than the carbon you'll find on its pricier sibling, the Procaliber. The X-Caliber comes kitted with rack mounts, so it's bike-packing ready, along with a mount for a kickstand. All frames feature internal routing and they all come kitted with Trek's Blendr stem. The X-Caliber comes with either 650b wheels on sizes XS and S with all larger bikes (up to XXL) roll on 29" hoops. As for the geometry, there's a 73° effective seat tube angle on sizes M and up while the smaller two sizes get a 73.5° effective seat tube angle. Then there's a 69.5° head tube angle (S and XSs get a 69.3° HA) and a 438mm chainstay on M and up, and a 425mm chainstay on the smaller bikes. Sizes S to XL get 100mm of travel leaving XS with just 80mm. Although, the frame will accept a maximum of a 120mm fork while the XS can accept a 100mm fork.

X-Caliber 9

Heading up the range, the X-Caliber 9 gets a RockShox Judy Silver Solo Air with a TurnKey remote lockout. This bike gets a Shimano SLX M7100 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes made up of an MT401 lever and an MT400 caliper. The wheels on this one are a pair of Bontrager Kovees and they're wrapped with a pair of Bontrager XR3s in the 2.3" width on all sizes. The finishing kit comes from Bontrager too with an alloy bar, stem, and seat post.

X-Caliber 8

The middle of the range X-Caliber 8 comes with a RockShox Judy SL Solo Air fork with a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain. Stopping the bike is a pair of MT200 brakes from Shimano. As for the wheels, the rims come from Bontrager with a pair of kovees and they're laced to Formula DCL-141Q hubs. Then the rest of the bike is the same as the X-Caliber 9.

X-Caliber 7

The X-Caliber 7 gets much of the same kit as the X-Caliber 8 with the only difference in spec being its Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain.

Trek Roscoe

If you're looking for a trail orientated hardtail, the Roscoe fits the bill. Each build comes properly sorted with dropper posts, 120mm of travel (size S gets 100mm), 1x drivetrains and alloy frames. The bike also rolls on 650b+ wheels and tyres. They all feature internal cable routing, rack and kickstand mounts too. Onto the geometry, the Roscoe sees a 67.3° head angle, a 70.8° effective seat tube angle (with the medium frame getting a 70.7° effective seat angle and the S and XS getting 71.2° and 71.1° angles respectively), and a large frame gets a 428mm reach. As a 650b+ bike, it can run either 27.5x2.8" or 29x2.4" rubber.

On the Roscoe 8, you'll find a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork with a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain with Shimano brakes in the form of the MT501 lever paired with an MT500 caliper. It's worth noting that the fork comes with a flexy QR axle. The wheels here are made of rims from Bontrager and the Line 40s with a Bontrager hub at the front and a Formula hub at the rear. This bike gets a pair of Maxxis Rekon tubeless tyres with a 2.8" width and then the rest of the kit comes from Bontrager and the alloy range apart from the dropper post, which comes from TranzX with the JD-YSP18.

The Roscoe 7 benefits from most of the same kit as the 8, but this one gets a SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and Shimano MT200 brakes.

On the cheapest Roscoe 6 you'll get an SR Suntour XCM 32 coil sprung fork with a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain and MT200 brakes. This bike then rolls on Alex MD35 rims and Formula DC hubs which get a pair of Kenda Havok, wire beaded, 2.8" tyres. As for the rest of the build, that's just the same as the rest of the range.

Trek Marlin

If a sub £1k cross country, everyday bike is more your speed then it's worth checking out the Trek Marlin. Each bike in the range comes with an alloy frame and a fork with 100mm of travel (XS frames get 80mm). There are also rack and stand mounts, the Blendr stem, and internal cable routing. XS and S sizes roll on 650b wheels while sizes M to XXL get 29" hoops. On the Marlin, you'll get an effective seat tube angle of 73.5° on the XS and S frame while everything else benefits from a 71.9° effective seat tube angle. As for the head angle, on the smaller sizes it'll measure in at 69.3° and from M upwards it's a couple of degrees steeper at 69.5°. All frame sizes share a 438mm chainstay length and a large frame gets a 451mm reach.

The Marlin 7 comes kitted with a RockShox Judy coil sprung fork with a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain and Shimano MT200 disc brakes. The wheels are made of Bontrager Kovee rims laced to Formula DC hubs and they're wrapped with a pair of Bontrager XR2 Comp 2.2" tyres with wire beads. The rest of the bike comes with Bontrager's own finishing kit.

Trek Farley

Perhaps fat bikes are more your things. Allow me to introduce the Farley. There are two in the 2021 range with an alloy and a carbon option which, of course, roll on 4.5" tyres. Both bikes come with a dropper post, horizontal sliding dropouts, ideal for single speed setups and tubeless-ready tyres. As for the geometry, the Farley gets a 69° head angle, a 73° effective seat tube angle and a 455mm chainstay. The reach on a large is 441mm and there are four sizes available, from S to XL. 

The Farley 9.6 gets an OCLV carbon frame with a Bontrager Haru OCLV fork. The drivetrain on this bike comes from SRAM and the GX Eagle 12-speed shifting. As for wheels, they're Sunringle Mulefut 80 SL rims laced to Bontrager alloy hubs. Those are wrapped in a pair of Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, tubeless-ready tyres with inner strength sidewalls and aramid beads. The dropper kitted here is a TransX JD-YSP18 and the rest of the kit comes from Bontrager with a 750mm wide bar.

The Farley 5 is Trek's best value fat bike and it's built around an alloy frame. It gets a Shimano Deore M4100 10-speed drivetrain with SRAM Level brakes and there's a Race Face crank. It gets the same wheels as the 9.6 but the tyres here are a pair of Bontrager Gnarwhals. The rest of the kit is the same as the 9.6. It's worth mentioning that while the Farley 5 comes with a rigid fork, it'll happily accommodate a 100mm travel suspension fork.

Trek Session

The Session needs no introduction, but it's the brand's 650b downhill bike. There's only one model in the 2021 range which is built around an alloy frame. It gets Trek's Active Braking Pivot and the geometry adjusting Mino-Link. Up front, there's 200mm of travel and at the rear, there's 210mm. In the low setting, the Session gets a 63.6° head angle, a 445mm chainstay and a large frame gets a 426mm reach. There are four sizes, from S to XL and the 8 27.5 model will set you back £4,200

Trek Ticket

Finally, rounding off the Trek range of mountain bike is the Ticket. It's available as the full suspension, Ticket S (pictured) with 100mm of travel and the Ticket DJ, which is the hardtail version. Both come as a frame only with prices starting from £725, up to £1,400.

• www.trekbikes.com

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Liam Mercer

Tech Editor here at off.road.cc Liam can also be found photographing bikes as well as revelling in cycling's intricacies. Whether it's gravel, mountain, or e-MTB as long as it's a bike on dirt, he's happy.

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Mountain bike wheel size chart – everything you need to know

Are you eyeing up a new bike and want to know more about how the different wheel sizes stack up? Look no further

With several wheel size options out there it can be quite a challenge to figure out what it is exactly that you need for your mountain bike. We could be talking about vital inches that can make all the difference. Are the things people say about different wheel sizes true? Are bigger wheels faster? Smaller sizes more fun? With several standards established over the years, you may find yourself wondering which size might best suit your riding style.

Never mind choosing between the best mountain bike wheels and best gravel bike wheels , which size should you even be aiming for? We've taken the time to explain the differences between the most commonly available wheel sizes, and what unique features they bring to a ride, so you can make an informed decision. Read on for more.

The old guard: 26 inch MTB wheels

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Mountain bike wheel sizes are referred to by the diameter and they are commonly measured in inches. It all started with the 26-inch wheel diameter. 26-inch wheels have been about longer than most people alive. When we are talking about modern industry standards that is some serious consistency compared to recent years.

We used to have it so easy, it was 26-inch wheels or nothing. These days, like many other things in mountain biking we have evolved and moved on. So are 26 inch bikes dead? Well, kind of. On modern mountain bikes, the 26-inch wheel size is almost exclusively reserved for dirt jump and bikes for children. With spares becoming increasingly sparse, these days options for mainstream trail bikes have all but disappeared. The 26-inch wheel size can be made strong, stiff and the smaller frame size offers riders a bike that is more flickable and therefore still perfect for the dirt jump freestyle scene.

29er wheels: is bigger always better? 

There are debates all over the internet disputing who started the revolution of mountain bike wheel size. The legend and pioneer Gary Fisher arguably wasn't the first or the only one to develop and offer an alternative to 26-inch wheels but the influential Fisher did have the ear and the backing of industry giant Trek. However, the lack of supply paired with the quirky handling characteristics of early 29-inch wheels – also known as twenty niners – meant that it never really took off in the early 2000s.

Fast forward a decade and the 29er revolt slowly started to gather momentum again. First in the XC bike market, winning races and showcasing the benefits of the larger diameter. Trail and Enduro bikes were next, honing similar perks as XC bikes. With technology and development improving the strength, stiffness and reliability of the larger wheels, the world's fastest downhill racers began to trial the 29er and the results speak for themselves. Take a wander around your local bike shop and you will no doubt notice that the 29er wheels can be found on most types of mountain bike.

The 29-inch wheels create a bike that feels very different from its smaller wheeled cousins. They take a little more time to get rolling and up to speed, but once they are there they have the ability to roll over trail obstacles like rocks and roots. The wheel hits these obstacles at a shallower angle when compared to smaller wheels. To simplify, just think about how a skateboard wheel almost stops every time it strikes a tiny stone compared to a bike wheel that barely even slows at all. 

The 29er also boasts a longer contact patch with the ground, meaning more of the tire is on the ground once it conforms to the trail. The idea is a longer contact patch will aid traction while cornering and during technical climbs.

Early frame designs with 29-inch wheels felt awkward in tight turns and when you get some wind under the wheels. The bikes would take much more effort to pump the ground for speed. Modern advances in geometry and developments like Boost spacing allowed shorter chainstays and while retaining the tire clearance needed help to negate some of these early complaints.    

650B (27.5-inch) wheels: the middle ground 

After the rise of 29-inch wheels, there was room to trial something between the old 26-inch wheel and these larger wagon wheels. The 27.5-inch wheel size was developed. The aim was to take the benefits of each and create a ‘best of both’ middle ground, and they really took off. Sales were good and it was quickly accepted, and this finally killed off the 26-inch wheel on mainstream mountain bikes.

Also known as 650b wheels, 27.5-inch wheels allow the bike to retain some of the rollover capability while still giving a responsive and playful spirit, for that reason they can be still sometimes be found on longer travel bikes. The 27.5-inch wheel is also seen in some gravel bikes, allowing a bigger tire to be used compared to 700c (traditional road and CX wheel size) wheels. This increase in tire volume offers a little more comfort while also giving more of a mountain bike-like feel if you intend to push the term gravel a little on singletrack trails. 

Generally speaking, 27.5-inch wheels work with the more playful, nimble and nippy type of bike compared to 29-inch wheels. Some manufacturers offer models with either 29 or 27.5 wheels. The larger frame sizes have a 29er setup and the smaller sizes with 27.5 wheels slotted into the same model of bike. 

Plus size wheels

Plus size tires are offered in both 27.5 and 29-inch wheel sizes. The 27.5+ wheel standard has the same 584mm diameter as a regular 27.5-inch wheel, only the rim is wider to accommodate a tire that is around three inches wide. Some frames designed for a 27.5+ tire will also allow you to swap to a regular 29er wheel and tire combo as the outer diameter of 740mm is the same. 

With 29+ wheels the outer diameter grows to 778mm. The tires (2.8 to 3.0 inches wide) were designed for riders that prioritize traction and stability. 

The added grip that plus tires offer make them a perfect choice for riders who are new to mountain biking. The extra volume and traction give more confidence especially in loose and dry conditions. The added weight is the downside. Manufacturers have tried to combat this by offering lighter tires, but unfortunately once you start to really push these lighter tires harder into turns and trail obstacles, riders will run the risk of damaging the thinner side walls.

If you're using plus wheels and tires, make sure you set them up tubeless as they need running at low pressures to get the best out of them.

Any other sizes you need to consider?

Believe it or not but the options don't end there. Mixed wheel sizes or ‘mullet’ bikes are very much established now. Often described as “business up front and party at the back”, the mullet bike isn't actually all that new. At the risk of sounding old, I remember it the first time around, Specialized released the Bighit with mixed wheel sizes back in the early 2000s, albeit a 26-inch wheel at the front and a 24-inch wheel in the rear. 

These days the modern mullet bike has a larger 29-inch wheel slotted into the fork and a 27.5-inch wheel in the rear. This gives the benefit of the rollover with the 29er front wheel and the playful nature of the 27.5 with the rear. The mixed wheel size makes for a more nimble bike in the twisty stuff and also means you are less likely to buzz your bum on the rear tire when you are hanging off the back of the bike on super steep sections. 

It will also give the bike a slacker head angle which is great for the descents. The trade-off is the bike might not feel as balanced as it would otherwise, as the rear wheel will catch more of the hits while the front rolls over trail obstacles better.        

If you spend the majority of your time riding in the most extreme conditions in the deep sand of the desert or in sub-zero temperatures in snow, then you might want to try a fat bike. These bikes have huge ballooned tires as wide as five inches that roll on 26 or 27.5-inch sized wheels. The larger footprint and low pressures allow the bike to float over soft snow and sand. On the largest tires with the softest conditions, you can expect tire pressures as low as a couple of PSI. These smaller diameter wheels but with huge thick tires still offer a smooth ride on trails even with little or no suspension. Fat bikes also make for good bikepacking steeds as the wide tires spread the extra weight, stopping the tires from sinking into soft ground. These are pretty specialist bikes and they have their limitations on harder surfaces with the added rolling resistance.

Dean is a freelance cycling journalist and a self-confessed pedal addict based in Dorset, who's fortunate to have the New Forest National Park and the Isle of Purbeck on his doorstep. Not confined to his local spots, riding bikes has meant Dean has been fortunate to travel the world in search of the best trails. From summers spent in the Alps to exploring iconic locations such as Scotland, Aosta Valley, the Pyrenees, Finale Ligure, New Zealand and Whistler to name a few. Over the years he has dabbled in racing DH and enduro to XC. More recently Dean has been exploring the UK with his gravel bike and loves a bikepacking trip. As passionate about writing as much as his riding, by recapturing his adventures through his stories and sharing his own experiences of products by writing technical reviews, he's also a regular contributor for Singletrack and Grit CX .

Rides: Open U.P

Height: 180cm

Weight: 65kg 

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Trek 4500 Mountain Bike Review: Is it worth your money?

Mountain biking is an exhilarating and fulfilling hobby, but let’s be real, it can also be pretty expensive. 

Luckily, there are plenty of great budget bikes on the market that don’t compromise on performance. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at one of those bikes – the Trek 4500 Mountain Bike. 

So, if you’re in the market for a bike that won’t break the bank but still offers plenty of features and versatility, stick around for this review.

Trek 4500 MTB At A Glance 

Trek 4500 is an amazing hardtail mountain bike from Trek. It provides good riding on technical trails, and the lightweight frame makes it very convenient for beginners.

Trek 4500 inspires confidence on the trail with solid handling and durable components. It sports 26-inch tires and a suspension fork to smooth out bumps and major impacts. 

It also comes with a Shimano drivetrain, a RockShox Dart 2 fork, and with sturdy double-walled rims, so you can roll over anything with confidence. Also, the hydraulic disc brakes in the later models deliver precise stopping ability.

• High quality aluminum frame
• Durable components
• Reliable brakes and gears
• Sturdy wheels and tires
• Complex 3X drivetrain
• Small 26-inch wheels

Unfortunately, Trek doesn’t make this bike anymore, but there are some really impressive newer models with better designs which are excellent alternatives to the 4500 Trek mountain bike. 

I recommend Trek Marlin 5 and Trek Fuel EX 5 as great alternatives, you can scroll down to see our brief review of these bikes. 

Trek 4500 Mountain Bike: Features and Specifications

Frame and fork.

Trek 4500 Mountain Bike is the perfect companion for beginner trail riders who want a lightweight and durable bike that can handle mountain trails with ease. 

The hardtail aluminum frame makes it an excellent budget bike, with a trail-taming front suspension that absorbs impacts and road noise.

It comes equipped with a RockShox Dart 2 with 100mm travel suspension fork, which might not be the lightest, but it is super strong and very reliable.

Actually, the Suntour XCM suspension on the Trek 4500 makes it a budget to mid-range bike that packs a punch. And the relatively tight head tube angle that offers flexible handling for easy steering and control, especially during climbs and descents. 

With its great budget fork, the Trek 4500 is quite comfortable on longer rides and actually able to handle some riding on technical trails.

From my experience, the Trek 4500 is an excellent choice for beginners who want to hit the trails with confidence and style.

Gears and Brakes

Shimano is well-known for making reliable gears with smooth shifting and easy maintenance. And the Trek 4500 features Shimano components, it has the Shimano Alivio groupset.

With the Trek 4500, you get an incredible range of gearing, from low gears that smoothly take up steep climbs to a good range of high gears for fast descents.

Before this bike model was discontinued, it had many different models, and a few of its features changed with each new release. For instance, the oldest models were fitted with rim brakes, but the later models were upgraded to more reliable and effective hydraulic disc brakes. 

These bikes had the Shimano M395, which have excellent stopping power and will stop on a dime even in wet conditions. 

Now, whether you’re just starting out on mountain trails or you’re an experienced rider, you can trust the Shimano groupset and hydraulic disc brakes to give you the performance you need to tackle any terrain.

Wheels and Tires

If you’re looking for a mountain bike with excellent handling ability and great acceleration, then the Trek 4500 is a great choice. 

4500 Trek is equipped with 26″ wheels, which are smaller than other sizes like 27.5″ or 29″, but they make up for it with their maneuverability, and you can always fit larger tires.

The wheels are designed to be strong and durable, with 32 spokes and double-walled rims, this means that you can take on any trail without worrying about your wheels getting damaged.

Plus, it comes with Bontrager 26×2.2″ tires that provide great flexibility, but the traction is not so great. Bigger and wider tires on a mountain bike are ideal for providing traction on trails with loose dirt, and they also help to absorb shocks and bumps on the trail. 

Thankfully, you can always swap the 26-inches tire on the Trek 4500 for bigger ones. However, even the small tires are not so bad. With those tires, you can actually hit the trails with confidence and take on any challenge that comes your way.

The wheels and tires of the Trek 4500 are a great combination that provides excellent handling, durability, and versatility. 

Saddle and Handlebars

A good saddle and adjustable handlebars are crucial components of a mountain bike, as they can greatly impact your riding experience. 

With a comfortable saddle, you can ride for long periods without experiencing discomfort, while adjustable handlebars allow you to customize your riding position to suit your preferences and riding style.

For the Trek 4500 though, the comfort of the saddle is highly subjective. Whether you find it comfortable or not depends on how it makes your backside feel. From my experience, not many people find it comfortable, but that’s not an issue because you can always install a better saddle.  

And for the handlebars, Trek 4500 comes equipped with Bontrager handlebars, grips, and a stem. Its handlebar’s 31.8mm diameter and 15mm rise give it plenty of space for a comfortable grip when riding.

These handlebars are quite impressive and provide excellent grip, even in wet or muddy conditions, and helps to absorb shocks and vibrations on the trail.

The bar’s robust design can withstand some abuse while being used on the trail. And the stem has a 10-degree rise, which provides a comfortable riding position while also keeping you in control of your bike. 

The stem is also adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune your riding position for maximum comfort and performance.

Size and weight 

Trek 4500 comes in a range of sizes to fit different riders, with options ranging from 13″ all the way up to 24″, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for you. The frame sizes are precisely 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5, 23.5″

And for the weight, the Trek 4500 is relatively lightweight for a mountain bike, with an average weight of about 30 lbs (13.6 kg). That means it’s easy to handle and maneuver on the trails without being too heavy to carry around when needed. 

The maximum weight limit of 275 to 300 lbs is also good, providing plenty of support for a wide range of riders.

Ride quality and performance

The Trek 4500 is an all-around amazing bike. Its comfortable ride and great performance make it an excellent choice for any rider, regardless of skill level. 

While it may not be the lightest bike on the market, it has an incredible range of gears, making it very adaptable and easy to conquer a variety of terrain. 

Plus, its 26″ wheels provide excellent handling and acceleration, while the Bontrager XR2 26″ tires provide good grip in all kinds of conditions.

One of the best things about the Trek 4500 is its versatility. Whether you’re tackling light, dusty paths or hitting some loose terrain with serious speed, this bike can handle it all. 

Its sturdy frame and durable components make it perfect for trail riding, while the adjustable handlebars and comfortable saddle ensure a comfortable ride.

I highly recommend the Trek 4500 for anyone looking for a mid-range bike that delivers outstanding performance at a great price. Its combination of affordability, versatility, and quality makes it an excellent investment for anyone who loves mountain biking.

Best Trek 4500 Mountain Bike Alternatives

As Trek doesn’t make the 4500 mountain bikes anymore, you cannot buy them brand new. But, you will find even better performing Trek mountain bikes with more advanced features and superior build quality. 

If you absolutely want a Trek bike, then I recommend the Trek Fuel EX 5 or the Trek Marlin 5 as great alternatives for the Trek 4500. But if you’re willing to try a different brand, then the Schwinn Bonafide is a great choice with a much lower price tag.

Trek Fuel EX 5

Fuel EX 5 is a very efficient full-suspension trail bike that’s ready to handle the most rugged mountain terrains. It’s built for speed, with a sturdy chassis and supportive front and rear suspension to give you loads of support on both climbs and descents.

The Trek Fuel EX 5 stands out as a high-value, high-performance mountain bike with remarkable adaptability. It’s fitted with a Shimano 1×12 drivetrain, a dropper post for getting low on descents, and hydraulic disc brakes.

As a heavy trail-rider, this bike most likely checks all the boxes on your wishlist for a new bike. It’s a sure-footed bike that delivers better stability and control. And more importantly, it’s a fun bike to ride. 

Trek Marlin 5

Trek Marlin 5 is a trail mountain bike that’s built to gracefully handle daily adventures on rough terrains. It has a lightweight aluminum frame with a 2×8 drivetrain for smooth riding and shifting and powerful hydraulic disc brakes which provide fast and precise stopping. 

While the Marlin 5 is made for trail riding, it’s also versatile and can double as a commuter bike. This bike has a stunning frame with internal routing for the brake and shift cables, which can extend the lifespan of your wires by shielding them from the environment.

It’s the perfect bike for new trail riders and comes in seven frame sizes to fit riders of all heights. Marlin 5 is elegant and comfortable, with a ton of features that are typically reserved for more pricey bikes.

Schwinn Bonafide MTB

The Bonafide MTB is another great bike from Schwinn. It’s a mid-range bike with interesting features and an affordable price tag. 

The Schwinn Bonafide MTB gives you a pleasant and reliable riding experience with its aluminum mountain frame and sturdy suspension fork that absorbs bumps and big hits.

As a hardtail mountain bike, it’s designed for the trail with large 29″ knobby tires and durable alloy rims. The alloy rims increase longevity without adding extra weight, while the mechanical disc brakes offer precise stopping on the trail. 

The gear shifting is smooth and seamless, thanks to the 24-speed trigger shifters and front and rear derailleurs. This bike is fun and easy to ride, which makes it great for heavy riders.

Finally, is Trek 4500 mountain bike a good buy?

Well, that’s my review of the Trek 4500 Mountain Bike. I hope you found it helpful in making your decision. I know that mountain biking can be an expensive hobby, but the Trek 4500 provides a lot of value for the price. 

It’s versatile, sturdy, and has a great set of features that make it a great bike for a variety of riders. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly mountain bike that can handle a range of terrain, the Trek 4500 might just be the bike for you.

You likely won’t find a brand-new Trek 4500, but the alternative options included above are really great choices.

You may also like:

• Best Budget Mountain Bikes Under $400
• Best Budget Mountain Bikes Under $300
• Best Mountain Bikes for $1500 and below

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As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

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UCI Mountain Bike World Series 2024: Fort William gets Gravity action underway

Updated 30/04/2024 at 20:15 GMT

The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup returns to the iconic Fort William in Scotland, as the world’s best downhill mountain bikers converge on the famous and historic course for the opening UCI Downhill (DHI) World Cup of the 2024 season. The first of the year's Gravity races, racing gets underway in Fort William on Saturday, May 4.

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Best Electric Mountain Bikes of 2024

Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs)may not be as popular as their unpowered cousins, but they’ve opened up the trails to more riders in a big way. Electric mountain bikes typically contain a large battery pack on the down tube and an electric motor. This gives riders an extra boost, similar to conventional and commuter e-bikes but with a hardier build to deal with the rigors of trail riding.

Choosing the best electric mountain bike for your trail rides can be a bit of a challenge. In addition to considering your needs and preferences, riders should also compare battery life and range, motor types, power output, bike weight and maximum load, frame material, geometry, cost, and warranty. We’ve taken all of that into consideration as we compiled this list of the best electric mountain bikes of 2024.

Table of Contents

• Electric Mountain Bikes
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Specialized Turbo Levo Comp  »

Six different geometry settings

Higher than average max load

700Wh battery with good range

Fork and dampener not top-notch

Noisy motor at high torque

The combination of an above-average number of geometry settings, a high maximum weight load, superior motor torque, and a long range makes the   Specialized Turbo Levo Comp the best overall choice. The Turbo Levo Comp has six different geometry settings, which gives a wider variety of riders the chance to enjoy this eMTB to its fullest. Plus, the bike can carry 309 pounds of weight.

Specialized’s Turbo Full Power System 2.2 Motor provides a respectable 90Nm of torque powered by a 700Wh battery. If that sounds like gibberish, it basically means that you can ride an above-average distance of 33 miles on this bike when it’s fully charged. The simple user interface is built into the top tube, directly in front of the rider, which allows you to keep an eye on the output and battery life as you ride. The Mission Control app is also an added perk; within the app, you can adjust the motor and battery output, and change up the bike display. You can also monitor battery health in the app, and you’ll get status alerts for performance issues.

Specilaized’s lifetime warranty for the original owner requires bike registration, but it covers structural defects and problems with workmanship to the frame, fork, seat stay, and chainstay. That’s far more coverage than we found on most other bikes we researched.

Complaints of the Turbo Levo stem from its harsher ride on truly rough terrain. This is due to Specialized’s choice of gear in the fork and stem, giving it a stiffer ride than more premium eMTBs. I don’t think that’s a deal breaker; but for $9,000, the choice not to build in a more forgiving frame for deep bushwhacking is disappointing.

Radon Jealous Hybrid 9.0 625  »

High-suspension travel

Lightweight compared to other budget options

Powerful Bosch motor

Higher end components

Hard-tailed

Still more expensive than a budget non-electric MTB

Oversimplified user interface

Radon’s Jealous Hybrid 9.0 625 may not be the most powerful or sporty in their collection, but it does the job for mountain bikers on a budget. The combination of a Bosch 625 Wh battery along with the Radon Performance Line CV motor pushes out an impressive 250W of power and 85Nm of torque, giving you 29 miles of riding, even with considerable elevation gain. This is the same system that powers some of the higher-end eMTBs such as Trek’s Powerfly FS 9, but you get it for less than $3,000.

The adjustable front air suspension system opens this bike up to more riders as it can be changed on the fly to accommodate different rider heights – something unique to bikes of this class. The huge 11-50 tooth cassette allows for a higher-than-average amount of control on both climbs and descents, bolstered by the deceleration in downhill mode. Though not as progressive as something like the Turbo Levo, Radon’s geometry is supplemented by an adjustable dropper post. This gives riders the option to easily raise or lower their seat height with the press of a button, instead of having to jump off with a wrench in hand.

The combination of a lightweight aluminum frame with the power of Bosch’s CX motor makes for a fantastic experience both climbing and descending on this bike. Still, a few people complain about comfort issues; that’s because this eMTB is designed as a hardtail. To stay comfortable, you’ll need to stick to tamer trails than you might with a bike that has dual suspension.

In the end, though, this bike’s lower price, along with moderate to high-end components, makes it a steal for riders entering the world of mountain biking on an electric model.

Giant Trance X Advanced E+ EL  »

Smaller, more powerful battery

Ideal battery range of 80 miles

Built by a professional mechanic

Lightweight

Lack of color options for each model

Complicated delivery

Buggy application

Once you get past the sticker shock of all five figures behind Giant’s flagship bike, the Giant Trance X Advanced E+ EL, you’ll see that the quality put into this bike is worth the price tag. Giant has a partnership with Yamaha, which it used to design the SyncDrive Pro, a lightweight version of Giant’s previous motor that still manages to put out 85Nm of torque. In a much-sought-after change from the previous model; the motor is in a higher position; and Giant has upped the ground clearance of the bike, making for a more protected position for the motor and battery.

We were impressed by Giant’s six-sensor monitoring system, which instantly determines how much extra power is needed from the motor, based on terrain. This system can be tweaked manually by adjusting different support ratios to tune up the powertrain based on your unique riding style. Long-distance riders will appreciate that Giant’s maximum battery life was nearly double (and often more) than that of the other bikes we researched. It can take you up to 80 miles on a full battery. Although the RiddControl app is meant to be used with Giant bikes, beware that users have complained about the app. It tends to be buggy and difficult to navigate.

Giant also partnered with Panasonic to produce a more powerful battery than you’ll find in past models, jumping power up to 625Wh with the option of adding an Energypack Plus extender for an extra 250Wh. These newer batteries use a larger, more efficient cell type that claims to have a higher discharge capacity per cycle, making for longer rides without worrying about running out of juice. We also like that this newer battery design is more easily recycled after end-of-life is reached.

Giant also offers an in-house repair partnership with Yamaha. However, the complex nature of the Trance X means that Giant won’t deliver a bike right to your door. The cost of delivery and assembly is included with the bike, but it means getting the finished product is more complicated, especially if you live remotely or outside of a major urban center. Giant will help you find a certified mechanic as close as possible to your location.

Scott Lumen eRIDE  »

Only 34 lbs. total

Smaller motor and battery system

Modular design

Sporty handling with stealthy frame

Adaptable suspension

Lower max weight

Top tier price

More involved cable maintenance

Convoluted warranty

The Scott Lumen eRIDE is only 34 pounds and designed with slimness in mind; its ultra-light focus shows up in everything from the frame to the motor.

At 50Nm, the TQ-HPR50 motor puts out the lowest torque of any bike on this list. But given that the bike is half the weight of some of the heavier models, the power-to-weight ratio is substantially higher. SCOTT has integrated both the motor and battery directly into the frame, giving the Lumen more space to accommodate an extra water bottle and a seamless, plug-and-play range extender. This system makes it very easy to mix and match on the go for either more range or more water for those sweaty uphills.

The Lumen eRIDE contains a TwinLoc remote; with it, you can opt into three very distinct suspension modes: descent, traction control, and lockout. A built-in display sits right on the top tube and shows rider power, battery status, ride mode, and estimated range remaining.

Common complaints stem from SCOTT’s choice of integrating cables into the frame, which makes for a stealthy, smooth look but leads to more involved maintenance work if you need to replace or repair something. Another issue is SCOTT’s convoluted warranty policy that only applies to the frame, is good for only five years, and requires registration within the first 10 days. The warranty is also affected if you don’t bring your bike to an authorized SCOTT dealer, so you’re out of luck if you don’t have one in your area.

Aventon Adventure.2  »

Under $2,000

Lifetime warranty for a budget price

Simplified use

High storage space

High range for weight

More limited use than other models

Difficult to use without the motor

Not as customizable

At 77 pounds, the Aventon Adventure.2 is more than double the weight of the Lumen but can carry almost double the maximum load, making it more of a pack mule than the other models on this list. The powerful brushless rear-hub motor puts out a good amount of torque, which, along with the big battery, can be pushed to up to 60 miles on one charge.

The Aventon truly shines in its price: $1,799 as of the writing of this article, which is one of the cheaper models out there. And don’t let this low price fool you, as the Aventure.2 has significant bang for that kind of buck. It’s comfortable to ride, with 80mm of front suspension and beefy, 4-inch tires. And it can handle nearly every terrain: gravel, mud, pavement, and beyond. Built-in fenders and lights also make for a comfortable and safer ride on roadways and at night.

The user interface is also incredibly well-designed: It’s backlit, with a color LED screen that sits right on top of the stem in front of the rider. This shows the same info as you’ll find on top-of-the-line Lumen or Trance X bikes, and it even has a USB port to charge either a phone or another device. Although the Aventon app isn’t as integrated or in-depth as some of the more premium contenders, it’s very easy to use and has enough info for most riders.

Considering its cost, customer support and warranty from Aventon are top-notch, with a lifetime warranty for an original owner and 90 days to register the bike – a whole 80 days more than SCOTT offers.

The Bottom Line 

Electric mountain bikes are still fairly new, and they are only going to get lighter, cheaper, and more powerful. You certainly don’t need an eMTB to go up and enjoy the trails, but having something with a little more power makes the sport that much more accessible to beginners. Options abound both for the weekend warrior who also wants an e-bike to commute in town, or the committed rider who wants top-of-the-line efficiency, weight, and power.

The extra weight inherent to these systems will turn many riders away. “Think of someone who likes to do downhill sections with tight corners and jumps; they will not appreciate the extra weight,” says Jeff Wight, owner and operator of eBike Generation.

Things To Consider When Buying Electric Mountain Bikes

“There are many different kinds of e-bikes and you can tailor your selection to the type of riding that you do,” says Wight. Understanding the terrain you plan to ride on is also going to dictate what kind of bike you buy.

If you’re seriously looking at buying an eMTB, here are a couple of things to consider:

Price: You can pay a few thousand dollars for an electric mountain bike, or more than $10,000. What’s the major difference? One of the biggest drivers of cost is the frame build and materials. For example, aluminum builds usually have lower price tags while the carbon fiber frames easily push into the five-figure range.

Motor Type and Power Output: This is expressed both in terms of Watts (W) and Newton-meters (Nm). When you’re buying an eMTB, check the style of the motor. As the name suggests, a hub motor is built into the back wheel of the bike and provides power directly into that wheel. Conversely, a mid-drive motor is built into the frame, usually where the down tube meets the bottom bracket. These two systems work in separate ways to produce power: think automatic vs. manual transmission.

Battery Output and Range: A motor is nothing without a power source, and the style and substance of a battery can make or break your riding experience. Measured in Watt-hours (Wh), it’s important to look at how much energy the battery can discharge over a certain amount of time as this will give you a good idea of how long it will last during a ride. Battery range is variable and has to do with the quality of the battery, the needs of the rider, and the weight of the bike it’s supposed to be powering. On an ultralight bike like the Lumen, for example, the drive system doesn’t need as much power as it simply doesn’t have to push as much mass as compared to something like the much heavier Aventure.2.

Bike Weight and Max Load: This metric has a huge impact on a rider’s experience and often has a direct relation to cost, motor power, and geometry. Mostly, a bike’s weight will be determined by what the frame is built from. Carbon fiber builds allow for ultralight bikes to hit the sub-40 pound mark while run-of-the-mill aluminum builds are more in the 50- 60-pound range. This has a huge impact on the strength of the motor and battery, as well as the maximum weight of the bike. A heavier bike equals a stronger motor and battery with a higher max load capacity.

Frame Material and Geometry: Related to both weight and motor power, the frame material and geometry greatly impact the rider experience. Bikes that have flexible or adjustable geometry allow riders to micro-tune their riding experience, opening up that model to a wider variety of riders. This often correlates directly with cost, as bikes with higher-quality frames and adjustable geometry give a single bike more flexibility on climbs, descents, and types of terrain.

Customer Service and Warranty: These bikes aren’t cheap and having a solid warranty and customer service team behind a purchase can mean the difference between a fantastic rider experience and buyer’s remorse. We’ve found that this runs the gambit from a sub-par two-year limited warranty on only the frame to a lifetime warranty for the frame, motor, and battery. Some companies have different requirements for getting the best warranty so read the fine print.

How We Chose The Best Electric Mountain Bikes

Our contributor, Jenni Gritters, used her own knowledge and extensive research about mountain bikes, and the optimal specifications for electric mountain bikes. Gritters also consulted with several experts for this guide including Jeff Wright and Chris Pruitt. Jeff Wight is the owner and operator of eBike Generation , a small business that provides outfitted eMTBs to hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. He also keeps track of e-bike regulations by state to help riders understand what they can and can’t do on the road. Chris Pruitt is the CEO and a certified trainer at WorkoutHealthy , who trains and treats mountain bikers and happens to be an avid rider himself. His focus is on exercise and outdoor tech which, along with his work on mountain bikes, gives him a unique perspective on the ever-evolving world of eMTBs.

For each electric mountain bike, Gritters considered bike weight, materials, geometry, price, battery size and range, user reviews, and more.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US

Jenni Gritters is a journalist with a decade of experience covering outdoor gear, writing about everything from kids' balance bikes to the best hiking boots. She lives in Bend, Oregon, an outdoor playground of a mountain town. For this article, Gritters consulted Jeff Wight, owner and operator of eBike Generation, and Chriss Pruitt, CEO and certified trainer at WorkoutHealthy.

“There are many different kinds of eMTBs and you can tailor your selection to the type of riding that you do,” Wight says. 

Understanding what you’re planning to ride on both in terms of terrain and distance will dictate what bike you buy, and you should visit a bike store to learn more about the best match for your style. Wight lists the things you should ask about: mid versus hub motors, motor size, battery size, a derailleur versus an internally geared hub, a hardtail versus rear suspension, wheel size, and tire specs.

“Ensure the bike’s battery supports the distance you plan to cover,” says Pruitt. With an electric mountain bike, having the best motor and frame matters little if you run out of power!

In short, the motor and battery affect the performance of an electric mountain bike significantly. The power of the motor and the amount of power supplied over time by the battery will impact your ride. Both are directly related to how heavy the bike is and understanding the power-to-weight ratio of the entire system.

You should make your motor and battery choices based on the type of terrain you plan to ride on, Wight says.

Mid-drive motors will work better for riders on steep terrain, because of their design and how they transfer power to the bike. On rides when traction might be an issue, you should consider a hub motor (either front or rear-wheel mounted).

“Battery care is critical to preserving the life of this important (and expensive) component. Shifting mechanisms will need adjustment if the bike is not shifting correctly, as well,” says Wight. This is something all bike mechanics will know how to do and is something bikers can learn for themselves.

The motor and battery of an eMTB make up for the more complex – and expensive – components on the bike and make maintenance more complicated.

“Store the battery in a cool place to extend its lifespan,” says Pruitt, as temperature fluctuation hurts how much charge a battery has, as well as how long it can release that charge over time.

“Size guides from the manufacturers will help you choose the right size for you,” says Wight. Again, always consider what terrain you’ll be riding on and how long your rides will be; this will often give a good idea of what kind of geometry your ideal bike should have.

“Some of these bikes are pretty heavy,” continued Wight, “and things like getting them up onto a bike rack, or schlepping them around in your garage, are different than a non-ebike.”

Like shopping for a car, “The best advice is to test-ride the bike to ensure it fits well,” says Pruitt.

“Look for a good set of brakes. You want lots of stopping power for these heavy bikes in rough terrain,” says Pruitt.

“Built-in lights and reflective materials for visibility in low light conditions are paramount,” according to Wight. You should also check the maximum weight of the bike before riding it.

About Our Team

Jenni gritters.

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Staff Writer

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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Trek Fuel EX 7 XL Mountain Bike

Lehi , UT | 20 Hours

Description

Fuel EX 7 shines when you're charging down tricky descents, where the dropper post, upgraded 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork, and 130mm of rear travel come in handy. A lightweight aluminum frame, Tubeless Ready wheels, and a reliable 1x12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain make this an awesome all-around full suspension mountain bike.

Used only 3x! Switched to e-bike. Excellent like new condition. Size XL frame. Purchased from scheels in 2020 for $3k.

Located traverse mountain in Lehi

See other listings for bike hitch and other trek bike.

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The Best Road Bike Wheels of 2024

When it comes to road bike components, a quality set of wheels is one of the biggest performance upgrades you can make . Whether you’re looking to improve aerodynamics, reduce weight, or simply improve the ride feel of your bike, there are lots of great options to suit every need and preference.

Of course, having all those options can make deciding which road bike wheels to buy a challenge, especially when every brand and model claims to be better than the next. And, the rapid evolution of road bike wheels in recent years means that choosing the right wheels has gotten even more confusing than it used to be. Carbon, aluminum, disc brake, rim brake, rim depth, rim width, hookless tubeless, hooked tubeless, or clincher? There are so many options these days it could make your head spin.

To help provide some clarity, we’ve tested a huge selection of the best road bike wheels on the market to provide honest feedback about how they perform in the real world. Each set of wheels was tested by review author Bennett Shane or another member of our editorial team. Over hundreds of miles of riding, we examined and scrutinized each model’s performance while considering important factors like weight, stiffness, stability, vibration damping, aerodynamics, tire compatibility, and overall build quality.

Whether you’re a climber looking for a snappy and feathery set of low-profile rims, a breakaway addict looking for a set of “deeps” to save every watt of drag possible, or a roadie with an uncanny knack for getting lost on gravel, we’ve tested many of the most popular models and some lesser known newcomers to help you decide on this crucial upgrade.

Among the models we’ve tested, we zeroed in on our favorites which are listed below, followed by the best of the rest which are also great options we feel are worthy of consideration. To see all the models we tested at a glance, check out our comparison chart, and if you need help deciding what you need, take a look at our buying advice and FAQ section.

• Best All-Around Carbon Road Bike Wheels: Reserve 40|44 DT 350
• Best Value Carbon Road Bike Wheels: Hunt 44 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc
• Best Carbon Disc Climbing Road Bike Wheels: Cadex 36 Disc
• Best All-Around Aluminum Road Bike Wheels: Roval Alpinist SLX
• Best All-Around Road Bike Wheels for Rim Brakes: HED Ardennes RA Black
• Best Climbing Road Bike Wheels for Rim Brakes: HiFi EP30 SL Rim Brake Carbon Clinchers
• Best Entry-Level Race Wheels: Vision Trimax 35 DB CL
• Most Elegant Road Bike Wheels: Chris King ARD44

Reserve 40|44 DT 350

• MSRP $1799 (DT 350, as tested), $2,199 (DT 240), $2,499 (DT 180)
• Weight 1534g (other hub options are lighter)
• Tubeless Yes, Hooked Tubeless Ready
• Rim material Carbon
• Brake Type Disc, Centerlock
• Depth 40mm (front) / 44mm (rear)
• Width 25.5mm internal/33mm external (front), 25mm internal/31mm external (rear)
• Plush ride quality
• Responsive performance
• Choice in hub spec
• Minimal branding
• Not the lightest
• No stock Campagnolo freehub option

Reserve is the wheel supplier of Team Visma-Lease a Bike, whose riders won the general classifications of all three grand tours in 2023. So, it’s safe to assume their latest road wheels, including the brilliant 40|44 DT 350 wheels, are fast enough for the rest of us. While the 40|44 are speedy and efficient, Reserve touts comfort as the most compelling attribute, and we strongly agree. These are the most buttery-smooth and pleasant carbon wheels we tested and are an ideal choice for racking up big miles on any road, from minty fresh tarmac to aged and weathered pavement, even dirt and hardpack gravel. With internal rim widths of 25 mm in front and 25.5mm in the rear, they are optimized for tires no smaller than 28mm, all the way up to 45mm, making them a solid choice for those with all-road intentions. 

Another reason to love the 40|44 and all Reserve wheels is the choice of pricing, based on the hub spec. Our test set featured the workhorse DT Swiss 350 Staightpull hubs, and retail for $1799. The DT 350 packs a huge amount of performance, reliability, and serviceability into the 40|44 while allowing the weight to remain respectable at just over 1500g with tubeless tape and valves installed. At an additional cost, Reserve also offers the 40|44 with DT Swiss 240 (1445g) and DT 180 (1381g) hubs for weight savings, but realistically, hubs are about reliability and quick cassette engagement, both of which the 350 has covered and then some. 

As the name denotes, the 40|44 are a mixed-depth wheelset, meaning the front rim is shallower than the rear. Reserve designs all of their road wheels this way because, in reality, the demands and conditions affecting front and rear wheels are slightly different. Up front, turbulent air is hitting a lighter wheel that is bearing far less of the rider’s weight and is free to rotate along with the fork. So, the shallower 40mm rim offers more stability because it catches less airflow. The taller 44mm rear rim makes for a slightly stiffer wheel build, for more responsive acceleration. Bearing more of the rider’s weight, shielded from the wind by the rider’s lower body and locked into the rear triangle of the bike, the rear wheel is much less of a liability in blustery conditions, so there’s no downside to the increased depth.

Straightpull spokes are another great choice for this wheelset, allowing for very high spoke tension, which creates plenty of responsiveness during accelerations and lateral stiffness during aggressive maneuvering. 

Reserve also made the 40|44 easy to get along with. The hooked tubeless-ready rims are compatible with any tubeless tire or clinchers run with tubes. DT Swiss’ hubs are reliable and easy to service. There is also no weight limit and Reserve offers a lifetime warranty and crash replacement discount for added peace of mind to protect your investment. And, our experience with Reserve’s warranty department has always been good. 

While other wheels might stand out more in certain situations, the Reserve 40|44 is a super capable all-arounder that has you covered on any ride, pace, surface, or distance. At $1799 US, they are moderately priced (compared to some premium options) and a great performance and comfort upgrade for any disc brake road bike.

Read our full review of the Reserve 40|44 Road Wheels .

Hunt 44 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc

• MSRP $1,279
• Weight 1528g (including tape, valves, and rotor lock rings)
• Tubeless Yes, Hooked Tubeless
• Ri Material Carbon
• Width 20mm internal / 29mm external
• Affordable for carbon
• All the freehub body options
• Come with rotor lock rings, tape and valves
• Great ride quality
• Quick engagment
• Test wheels trapped water inside
• 240 lbs weight limit

Hunt Bike Wheels have made a name for themselves and become synonymous with value in the cycling wheel market. The Hunt 44 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc wheels are a great example. This is a quality carbon wheelset with virtually no drawbacks that performs nearly on par with models that cost as much as double the price.

As the name suggests, the 44 Aerodynamicist Carbon features a Carbon rim with a 44mm depth. This depth strikes a good middle ground between super-deep aero rims and shallower rims where they still slice through the air efficiently but avoid getting pushed around in variable winds. The hooked rims are 20mm wide internally and 29mm wide externally, and Hunt claims they are aero-optimized for use with 25c-28c tires. That said, they should work with any tires between 23-50mm as the hooked rim is compatible with tubeless-ready tires or clinchers with a tube.

The rims are laced with straight-pull aero spokes to Hunt hubs with center lock brake rotor interfaces, plus they come with rotor lock rings, which is a nice touch. The freehub features three pawls and a 48-tooth ratchet for quick 7.5-degree engagement. Hunt has also accounted for all freehub styles, and you can pick between Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, Campagnolo, and Campagnolo N3W (Ekar), so drivetrain compatibility shouldn’t be an issue. They also include a spacer for 8/9/10 speed cassettes along with a few spare spokes, nipples, and washers.

Beyond the build, the performance of the 44 Aerodynamicist is also great. They feel lighter than their weight suggests when climbing and getting on the gas, yet reassuringly stable at speed and generally unfazed when subject to crosswinds. They also provide a good amount of comfort over less-than-perfect road surfaces like weathered pavement or the occasional detour down a gravel road. They also look fantastic, with a matte black finish and subtle logos that look classy and will go with any bike build.

At $1,279, the Hunt 44 Aerodynamicist still are no drop in the bucket, but they’re hundreds less than most moderately priced carbon road wheels. On top of that, Hunt offers a 3-year warranty and riders can purchase the H_Care lifetime crash replacement policy for $69. They also have a 60-day Ride and Return Policy, so you try these wheels with confidence knowing that you’re not committed if you don’t happen to like them. But, you probably will because these are excellent wheels, especially for the price.

Read our full review of the Hunt 44 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc wheels .

Cadex 36 Disc Tubeless

• MSRP $2500/set (or $1400/front and $1800/rear)
• Weight 1354g (including tape and valves)
• Tubeless Yes, Hookless
• Width 22.4mm internal / 26mm external
• Incredibly responsive
• Predictable and confident handling
• Comfortable ride
• Tire choice is limited to hookless tubeless only

If you aren’t familiar, Cadex is the component division of Giant Bicycles, and they produce a wide range of bike parts and accessories including premium wheels like the Cadex 36 Disc . Given their reputation for delivering exceptional performance and featuring the specs to support that, we were excited to see how good they really are. 

Big Gains for Big Days is the Why behind the 36 Disc, according to Cadex. At 1354g with tape and valves installed, the Cadex 36 is an impressively light wheelset but delivers more than just uphill speed. With a 22.4 internal width and a hookless rim, the Cadex 36 Disc are also optimized for running bigger tires at lower pressure, which makes big days on the bike less exhausting through improved rolling efficiency and enhanced comfort. 

High tensile strength carbon spokes are a big part of the weight savings achieved in the Cadex 36 Disc but also make for an incredibly stiff and responsive wheel. The spokes are bladed for improved aerodynamics and stability in windy conditions. Cadex’s own R1-C30 low-friction hubs feature precision-machined internals and ceramic bearings which they claim roll up to 50% more smoothly than steel hub bearings. Additionally, Cadex uses what they call “Custom-Tuned Dynamic Balanced Lacing” to achieve a wider bracing angle and higher spoke tension to bolster stiffness and responsiveness.

Setup was quick and easy as the wheels come with tubeless tapes and valves installed. Tires seated easily with just a floor pump, but be aware that the Cadex 36 Disc rim is hookless, so it is absolutely critical to run compatible hookless approved tires. No clincher tires are compatible with hookless rims, and a fair number of “tubeless-ready” tires are not compatible with hookless rims, either, so it’s best to do some research prior to choosing your rubber. (They are currently selling the wheels as a set with tires included for $2,500)

“Big gains” is something that can be felt from the first pedal stroke. The Cadex 36 spin up very easily and hold speed incredibly well uphill. Stomping on the pedals, the lateral rigidity reminds one of a deeper rim, but with the responsiveness and zest of a wheel this light. Whether tapping out a deliberate, measured cadence or dropping the hammer, these wheels are happy to do whatever you please. And despite their stiffness, at 36mm deep, the Cadex 36 do still offer some forgiveness over road chatter, cracks, and bumps in the road. Handling at all speeds is predictable, precise, and they feel stable at speed and virtually unaffected by crosswinds.

While it can certainly be hard to justify the premium price tag of the Cadex 36 wheels at $1,400 and $1,800 for the front and rear, respectively, they are currently being sold for $2,500 as a set with a pair of Cadex tires. While that clearly isn’t inexpensive, it’s an easier pill to swallow and even undercuts the price of several other premium wheelsets. And, Cadex’s Composite Confidence Guarantee covers damage for the first two years, along with a 5-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

So, if you’re looking for some light, stiff, and classy-looking wheels to help make hills feel flatter, the Cadex 36 is worth a serious look. They don’t come cheap but these wheels offer premium performance for those seeking the best.

Read our full review of the Cadex 36 Disc wheels .

Roval Aplinist SLX Disc

• Weight 1485g
• Rim material Aluminum
• Width 20mm internal / 23.5mm external
• Excellent hubs
• Great handling
• Comfortable
• Reasonably lightweight
• Could be wider

Roval touts the Alpinist SLX as the best aluminum wheelset the company has ever produced for road riding. By combining tubeless ready rims laced to excellent DT Swiss 350 hubs with Sapim spokes and nipples, they’ve created a respectably lightweight wheelset that does everything well. At $800, the Alpinist SLX sits at a price point a few hundred dollars below entry-level carbon fiber wheels, which in many cases are less inspiring to ride than premium aluminum, being heavier or built with lower-quality hubs.  

The Alpinist SLX rim is made from 6061 aluminum aluminum alloy with a shot-peened finish. The rim is a hooked and tubeless-ready design with a moderate internal width of 20mm and an external width of 23.5mm that will work great with tires from 25 to 30c. While a touch narrower than what is quickly becoming the norm, these rims still work great with the vast majority of tires most people are using for pure road riding. That said, the Alpinist SLX rim still manages to feel plush and maneuverable, especially when set up tubeless with 30c rubber. With aluminum rims and a lightweight overall build, it’s critical to choose the best tires, otherwise, the ride quality and rolling resistance will be less than ideal. And, being a more affordable aluminum option, it leaves room in the budget to upgrade tires as well. 

Moving away from the rim, it’s clear that Roval was committed to making intelligent choices in selecting the parts for the Alpinist SLX wheelset, making them as well-rounded as some more expensive custom-built wheels. First, we find Sapim D-Light spokes, which aren’t the lightest or most aero spokes, but do enhance the ride quality of the Alpinist SLX. Those are laced to the legendary DT Swiss 350 hub with a 36-tooth star ratchet system for solid 10-degree engagement under power. The DT 350 is also one of the most reliable and easily serviced hubs ever produced.

Setting up the Alpinist SLX tubeless was fairly easy, with both tape and tubeless valves supplied inside the box. We did need to use an air compressor to pop the tire beads into place, but once that was done, the tires held air perfectly. 

On the road, the Alpinist SLX were pleasant to ride at a steady pace across any terrain. Only during the most extreme maneuvers and accelerations was it evident that they weren’t quite as stiff and snappy as some carbon options we tested. It’s no surprise that many of the professional teams that Specialized sponsors use the Alpinist SLX as training wheels between races. These are comfortable, predictable, and stable wheels for munching up big miles.

If you want an affordable, comfortable, and worry-free upgrade to your stock aluminum wheels, the Roval Alpinist SLX are a smart pick. Just be sure to match them with a high-end tubeless tire to realize their full potential.

HED Ardennes RA Black

• MSRP $1,300
• Weight 1475g
• Tubeless Yes. Hooked Tubeless Ready
• Brake Type Rim
• Depth 24.5mm
• Width 21mm internal / 25mm external
• Serious braking power
• Exquisite ride quality
• Looks the business
• Perfectly built

For the rim brake holdouts, we feel the HED Ardennes RA Black is one of the best wheelsets available, regardless of rim material. With a great design and all-around performance, the aluminum-rimmed Ardennes avoid many of the compromises and shortcomings of carbon fiber rim brake models that cost significantly more.  

The “Black” in HED Ardennes RA Black is a reference to its namesake, the textured black braking surface that features “Turbine Braking Technology”. The main benefit of Turbine Braking Technology is that the textured surface dramatically reduces stopping distances and the force required at the brake lever, which is of particular importance when running rim brakes. HED makes some lofty promises that these wheels will stop up to 25% faster in dry conditions and as much as 70% faster in wet conditions compared to other rim brake wheels with carbon brake tracks. The other obvious benefit is that the black brake track looks super stealthy, just like carbon rims, but without the concerns around heat buildup at the brake track, and poor wet-weather braking performance.

While controlling your speed is obviously super-critical, these wheels are also focused on ride quality and performance. The rims themselves are designed and constructed to provide a comfortable yet lively ride with an internal width of 21mm that is well suited to pure road riding tire widths between 23 and 30c. Unlike disc brake wheels, brake track width and tire volume are more of a consideration, and here the HED Ardennes hit the sweet spot.

Those rims are laced to HED HU216 (f) and Sonic 545 (r) hubs with Sapim CX-Ray bladed spokes. The front wheel uses straight pull spokes and radial lacing while the rear uses J-bend spokes in a 2x cross pattern. These spokes are light, aerodynamic, and provide a great ride quality in addition to being relatively easy to find should you need to replace one. And, in our experience with HED Ardennes wheels, you may never need to replace one or even true your wheels. The 5-pawl freehub engages quickly, and while it has a somewhat aggressive freewheeling sound, it isn’t over the top.

HED includes tubeless rim tape with the wheels, but you’ll need valve stems to complete the system which they sell separately for $15 a pop on their site in a range of lengths. Outside of that, setting up tires proved to be super easy and only required the use of a floor pump.

On the road, the HED Ardennes RA Black feel efficient and comfortable and not far off from more expensive deep-section carbon hoops. Super discerning riders might feel a slight reduction in efficiency, but the ride quality, responsiveness, and comfort these wheels provide over rough pavement is hard to ignore. Likewise, the rim brake stopping power is the best we’ve ever experienced, competitive in power and modulation to hydraulic disc brakes.

So, if you’re not convinced that carbon fiber rims or disc brakes are for you, the HED Ardennes RA Black is our top recommendation. While $1,300 isn’t exactly cheap, they cost less than most carbon options while providing a nicely balanced ride quality, excellent stopping power, and good looks.

Read our full review of the HED Ardennes RA Black wheels.

HiFi EP30 SL Rim Brake Carbon Clinchers

• Weight 1320g
• Rim material Full carbon
• Width 19mm internal / 25mm external
• What is gravity?
• Micro-hooked tubeless rims for the win
• Sensible width for rim brake frame clearances
• Replacement spokes may take time to source

HiFi Sound Cycling Components is based in Portland, Oregon, and has focused on hand-built wheels for every major cycling discipline since 2013. Since bike racing is about going fast, it’s no surprise that HiFi remains committed to offering high-end rim-brake wheelsets, like the EP30 SL .

Setting up the EP30 SL with tubeless tires was a cinch, thanks to nice and sticky tubeless tape that only requires one layer, and high-quality tubeless valves, which are included with purchase. Since the EP30 SL rim is hooked, you can run any tire under the sun with or without an innertube, which we love and applaud. While the rim is hooked, the hook is less pronounced than traditional clincher rims, a design HiFi terms “micro-hook”. The benefits are the tire security and compatibility of a traditional hooked design, with a more advanced rim/tire interface that allows the tire to better protect the top edge of the brake track from impacts with potholes and other road debris.

The EP30 SL’s 19/25mm internal/external width is a bit narrower than most road wheels being developed at present. Keeping in mind that the tires must safely clear rim brake calipers and narrow parts of the frame and fork, 19/25mm is a smart choice from a compatibility standpoint. Thanks to a ride quality that balances stiffness with a good amount of compliance, we found that with 25c and 28c rubber installed, the EP30 SL had a nice balance of speed and comfort, and allowed the tire to grip confidently at all times.

At 1320 grams, the EP30 SL is an ideal choice for hilly terrain, but far away from a niche wheelset for pure climbers. Not only were the 395g rims quick to spin up, but the 30mm deep profile was tenacious at high speed, helping us bomb down descents and charge across flat terrain like much deeper options. The EP30 SL rim offers plenty of stiffness, providing pinpoint maneuverability and surefooted confidence with the bike leaning through fast turns. Climbing on them is special, though. We set numerous personal best times on local climbs that we’ve ridden dozens of times while testing these wheels.

The braking performance of the EP30 SL rim was excellent, with zero shuttering, squealing, or brake fade. While we don’t recommend any carbon brake track wheel for day-in and day-out riding in wet and grimy conditions, we can confirm that the EP30 SL is ready to descend aggressively and ride in traffic with total confidence, in dry and slightly damp conditions. They also come with carbon-specific brake pads that we found to work great for slowing down in a hurry.

The EP30 HiFi Fidelity R36SL straight pull hubs feature high-quality Japanese steel bearings and use a 4-pawl system engaging with a 36-tooth ring. The R36SL hubs offer quick and reliable engagement, lightweight, and long-term dependability. The R36SL hubs are laced by hand to the EP30 SL rim with Sapim CX-Ray straight pull spokes. and Sapim Secure Lock Alloy nipples. The front wheel features an 18-spoke radial lacing pattern, while the rear utilizes a 24-hole 2:1 lacing pattern with 16 spokes on the drive side and 8 on the non-drive.

In the case of major incidents, HiFi offers a generous crash replacement policy that provides a 50% off MSRP discount on any wheel and necessary parts that are structurally damaged in a crash or accident. HiFi also guarantees their wheels to be free of manufacturing defects for 24 months from the date of purchase by the original owner. 

At $1970, the HiFi EP30 SL is a significant investment but will have you setting new personal bests and keep your beloved rim brake race bike on the road for many more years to come, instead of spending a lot more money to ride a different bike that is heavier and more complicated to maintain.

Vision Trimax 35 DB CL

• Weight 1650g
• Width 19mm internal / 23mm external
• Excellent lateral stiffness
• Affordable speed
• Narrow by today’s norms
• 3-pawl freehub engages less quickly

The Vision Trimax 35 DB CL wheelset represents an affordable upgrade in aerodynamics and lateral stiffness, making it a great choice for those just getting into road racing or time-trialing. 

The Trimax 35 rim features a slightly more aggressive 35mm depth and material is milled away around the spokes nipples, ensuring a race-worthy strength-to-weight ratio and creating a striking aesthetic. While Vision offers no specific aerodynamic claims about the Trimax 35 rim, it’s documented that deeper rims provide an advantage when riding at higher speed, by giving the air more surface to flow across, thus reducing the turbulence and aero drag that slows the rim down.

The rim is wide enough across the spoke bed to work well with 28c tires but for the best aerodynamics, a 25c tire is ideal and will create a smooth transition from the rim to the tire sidewall. Thankfully, the Vision Trimax 35 is tubeless ready, so those smaller 25c tires will still be comfortable and fast-rolling because they can be run at lower pressure without a tube inside. 

While the Trimax 35 DB CL wheelset isn’t a featherweight option at 1650 grams, when set up tubeless and paired with a lightweight and supple tire, it’s a fast set of wheels. The deeper rim and shorter spokes react with vigor to sudden spikes in power. The only thing that holds these wheels back a bit at times is the 3-pawl freehub, which takes a moment to engage the rear wheel during sudden accelerations, which we found most noticeable when climbing. Once the climbing is done, the Trimax 35 wheels are more than ready to rip descents, corners, and long flat stretches of open road. 

We were honestly quite pleasantly surprised by the Vision Trimax 35 DB CL given their reasonable cost of just $550. Sometimes it’s easy to get swept up in all the latest and greatest tech when testing the best of the best. To their credit, Vision has created a fast and nice-looking set of wheels that won’t break the bank but might help you break away from the pack.

Chris King ARD44

• Weight 1525g
• Tubeless Yes, Hookless Tubeless
• Rim material Fusion Fiber
• Width 25mm internal / 30.5mm external
• Flat out gorgeous
• Unbeatable comfort
• Built to last – lifetime warranty
• Recyclable rims
• Made in USA
• Your new bank balance
• A tad heavier than similarly priced options

Chris King has been making some of the most lust-worthy components in the cycling industry for many years, but the ARD44 is the brand’s first dedicated wheels for road cycling. These also happen to be the first road wheels made with Fusion Fiber , a US-made carbon fiber that has previously been applied in both gravel and mountain bike wheels. Built around Chris King’s excellent R45D hubs, these hookless tubeless wheels come at a premium price but back that up with amazing craftsmanship, stellar ride quality, and an outstanding lifetime warranty.

One of the standout features of the ARD44 wheels is the Fusion Fiber rims. Made in Utah by CSS Composites, Fusion Fiber has been used by Forge+Bond and in Chris King’s other recent complete GRD and MTN wheelsets. Using a thermoplastic resin, Fusion Fiber is not only recyclable but claims to absorb vibration better than traditional carbon fiber as well. On the road, the comfort is readily apparent as they soak up road buzz and impact as well as any other wheels we’ve tried. That smoothness translates directly to grip and rolling efficiency since everything seems less affected by imperfections in the road surface, handling is super calm and predictable, and the wheels are surprisingly quiet and damp sounding too (other than the freehub).

With a 44mm depth, the ARD44 rims offer a moderate level of aero advantage, which is enhanced by the hookless design for a smoother transition at the rim-tire interface. Despite the 44mm depth, we found them to be impressively stable in crosswinds where some deep section rims can feel sketchy. In varying winds, they did not waver or get pushed around and felt more similar to shallower designs. The hookless design and 25mm internal/30.5mm external width have been “aerodynamically tailored for 28mm-30mm tires”, meaning tires of those sizes will be the most aero-efficient. That said, they are claimed to work with tires up to 47mm wide, meaning they also have your all-road and gravel needs covered.

At the center of those rims are Chris King R45D hubs which are made in their factory in Portland, OR. These stunning hubs are available in a range of color options, have a center lock brake rotor interface, and can be purchased with Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, or Shimano Microspline freehub bodies. The house-made stainless steel bearings are ultra-smooth (plus you can upgrade to ceramic for $110) and feature King’s RingDrive system which has 45 points of simultaneous engagement, or 8°, for a zesty, precise feel. Twenty-four bladed, J-bend Sapim CX-Ray spokes connect the rims and hubs together.

At 1525g, the ARD44 isn’t the lightest wheelset around, but what little additional weight they have goes virtually unnoticed on the road, much the same way that cracked and weathered pavement seems to disappear beneath you. Should you manage to damage your wheels, Chris King’s Lifetime Warranty has your back, and they really mean it. If you damage your rim, they will pay for shipping both ways, a new rim and rebuild, plus a hub service. It doesn’t get much better than that.

At $2850, the ARD44 wheelset is well within premium-priced wheelset territory. While they aren’t the lightest, they offer a beautiful ride quality through their Fusion Fiber rims, bombproof Chris King hubs, excellent craftsmanship, and attention to detail. They are also great looking, with a raw carbon finish and subtle, matte King logos. For those in search of an elegant carbon wheelset to grace your forever bike and who value comfort and stability over outright speed, then the Chris King ARD44 may well be worth the cost.

Read our full review of the Chris King ARD44 road wheels.

Best of the Rest

Zipp 303 firecrest tubeless disc.

• MSRP $2,046
• Weight 1352g (no tape or valves included)
• Tubeless Yes. Hookless Tubeless
• Brake Type Disc, Centerlock (also comes in rim brake version)
• Depth 40 mm
• Width 25mm internal / 30 mm external
• Lighting quick acceleration
• Balances aerodynamics and handling
• Tire options limited to hookless tubeless

The latest version of Zipp’s 303 Firecrest marks a few significant changes for this venerated line of wheels. Most notably, the 303 has become even more versatile, by adding width and adopting a hookless rim profile. While that does limit you to fewer compatible tires, the hookless design actually opens up more possibilities for the 303, as an “all-road” wheelset, capable of being fast, smooth, and comfortable while standing up to abuse from unruly and unpaved roads. 

A hookless rim is an interesting choice for a wheelset so steeped in road heritage, as the technology was first developed for mountain bike rims before becoming commonplace on gravel and cyclocross-focused designs. While it is true that tire options become limited with hookless rims, nearly all leading brands now offer a road tire that is hookless compatible. For a sampling of these, check out our Buyer’s Guide to the Best Road Bike Tires of 2024 .

For a road wheelset, the primary claimed benefit of hookless is the more aerodynamic and efficient profile that the tire assumes when installed. By smoothing the transition from rim to tire, airflow is less disrupted and the rim itself is less exposed to impact. Additionally, manufacturers claim the rim itself can be kept lighter without adding hooks. Yet despite these claimed advantages, there are plenty of riders who are opposed to hookless rims in road riding.

So, how does this new-school philosophy in rim design affect the ride characteristics of the 303 Firecrest? When paired with 28c tires (the minimum volume that is compatible, according to Zipp) and inflated to 70 PSI, the 303 Firecrest feels so smooth, that it takes some getting used to. On a few occasions during the first ride, we were compelled to look down to ensure there wasn’t a puncture. In reality, the 303 Firecrest and the wider tires were doing their job in perfect harmony, soaking up road buzz and decreasing rolling resistance, which in turn preserves more speed and more energy in the rider, a win-win! While that level of smoothness doesn’t always translate well to cornering, we found it felt natural, confident, and precise. This is due to the 30mm external rim width, which prevents the tire from deforming under the lateral force generated by leaning the bike into a turn. 

Climbing, the 303’s low weight was readily apparent, and they made easy work of even double-digit gradients. The rear hub’s 66-point engagement helps here as there is no lag when your cadence drops or pedaling gets choppy. At high speed, the 40mm deep rim was surprisingly efficient, reminiscent of a rim with greater depth. With the 303 Firecrest, it’s easier to hold onto higher speeds, because the entire wheel and tire (+ bike and rider) system is suspended more efficiently above the road, so the road is essentially smoothed out, and watts are thereby saved.

Testing this wheelset wasn’t as much an “ah-ha” as an “uh-huh”, as the 303 Firecrest has been and will remain on the short list of the best-performing road wheels available. Zipp realizes that their bread and butter – aerodynamics – has hit a plateau in development, and smartly pivoted to rolling resistance to stay ahead of the pack with the 303 Firecrest. At $2046, they are actually competitively priced compared to many top-tier models. It’s a hard wheelset to look away from and was even harder to send back to Zipp.

Bontrager Aeolus Pro 49V Disc TLR

• MSRP $1,800
• Weight 1555g
• Rim material OCLV NEXT Thermoplastic Carbon
• Width 25mm internal / 32mm external
• Wide rims for higher volume tires

The Bontrager Aeolus Pro 49V is an aerodynamic road disc upgrade that’s within reach for more riders compared to the brand’s premium Aeolus RSL model. Bontrager’s use of OCLV NEXT thermoplastic carbon makes the Aeolus Pro 49V rim more durable and better able to dampen vibrations, resulting in a lower rolling resistance for a smoother and faster wheelset. The aerodynamically-optimized 25mm internal width rim is ideal for pairing with higher volume road tires size 28c and above. Because of the added width, the Aeolus Pro 49V rims allow those larger tires to run at lower pressures, enhancing traction and comfort. 

We had the chance to test the Aeolus Pro 49V back-to-back against the range-topping Aeolus RSL 51. On the same bike, with the same tires and tire pressure, riding the same 15-mile loop, it was honestly challenging to identify a difference in performance. If the test had been blind, we’re not sure we could have correctly which was the $1800 wheelset, or the one costing $1,000 more. Safe to say that whatever difference could be measured by CFD analysis, or by a truly rigorous road test using a power meter, the differences would be marginal. 

So, where exactly do the cost savings come from? The most direct cost-saving difference is the level of carbon fiber used in the respective rims. While the Aeolus RSL range features Bontrager’s lighter top-tier “RSL OCLV”, the Aeolus Pro range uses the  slightly heavier “OCLV Next” carbon, to match the same level of strength as the RSL. The heavier rims are part of why the Aeolus Pro 49V weighs 1555g, while the Aeolus RSL 51 wheelset is just 1410g. 

Moving away from the rim, the Aeolus Pro 49V uses heavier hubs, which don’t use the same DT-Swiss internals as the Aeolus RSL 51. Still, the Bontrager Rapid Drive 108 hubs found on the Aoelus Pro 49V offer excellent engagement and a precise, snappy feel when accelerating and climbing. They also feature the same DT Swiss Aerolite Spokes, which can withstand super-high tension and have been tested to be one of the most aerodynamically efficient spokes available. 

Next to the Aeolus RSL 51, the Aeolus Pro 49V has a less refined finish, but it’s certainly still a classy-looking wheelset. As someone who likes to occasionally throw fast wheels on my gravel bike for a race, the extra 2mm of internal rim width and the extra $1000 in my bank account would choosing between the two super easy. While weight is what a lot of folks fixate on when upgrading wheels, in our experience this year testing wheels and tires, we’ve downgraded its importance somewhat, assuming it’s under 1600g. Aerodynamics and low rolling resistance are where it’s at for us, and the Aeolus Pro 49V delivers both in good measure. 

All Bontrager carbon wheels are warrantied for life for the original purchaser and come with the added protection of Carbon Care. If you structurally damage your wheels while riding in the first two years of ownership, Bontrager will replace them. This is a significantly more generous offer than what most carbon wheel manufacturers list as “protection”. So, if you’re looking for a versatile aero wheelset that is comfortable and reliable and has an excellent warranty, the Bontrager Aeolus Pro 49V is a winning pick.

ENVE SES 3.4

• MSRP $2,850
• Weight 1455g
• Rim material Carbon fiber
• Depth 39mm front / 43mm rear
• Top-notch handling
• Compliant ride quality
• Hookless rims limit tire options
• Internal nipples not ideal with tubeless tire

The ENVE SES 3.4 is a versatile, aero, light, and fast wheelset, according to ENVE, and we agree that it’s one of the best all-around wheelsets available. While it doesn’t stake a claim as the best wheel in any particular category, it excels across the board, making it a true all-rounder and a great pick for those of us who want one carbon wheelset that can do it all quite well. In the real world, where the dynamics of road cycling are constantly changing, the ENVE SES 3.4 adapts seamlessly to whatever’s up the road, from steep climbs to twisty, pothole-riddled descents, to windblown straightaways.

At 25mm wide internally, the SES 3.4 is wide enough to support huge gravel tires but is also aerodynamically optimized for 28c road tires designed for road racing. Speaking of tires, the ENVE SES 3.4’s hookless rim is only compatible with approved hookless tubeless-ready tires. It is possible to run the ENVE SES 3.4 with tubes, but those tubes will still need to be used in conjunction with a hookless tubeless-ready tire. In most cases, such a combination will be heavy and add significant rolling resistance, so we recommend the ENVE SES 3.4 only for riders who intend to use tubeless tires. 

The SES 3.4 rims are different depths, but only marginally so, with a 39mm front and 43mm rear. The added depth bolsters responsiveness in the rear and the shallower front rim is more easily maneuvered, and also easier to hold steady in windy conditions. Responsiveness also gets a boost from the excellent ENVE Premium Road Hubs, which feature flange diameters, spacing, and spoke hole lacing that are all intended to maximize torsional stiffness, spoke tangency, and power transfer. 

Until a few competitors updated their wheels recently, the SES 3.4 were the most comfortable wheels we had ever tested. While they are no longer alone at the top in terms of ride quality, they’re still at the top. The SES 3.4 has an uncanny ability to ride pitch-perfect relative to whatever tire size and pressure is installed. Whether shod in 29c ENVE SES race tires at 68PSI, or a set of knobby gravel 42s, the ride is always responsive but well-damped, inspiring you to take any type of ride you choose.

The one thing we don’t like about the ENVE 3.4 also goes for every wheel ENVE makes, and a few other brands as well, and that’s internal nipples. This design saves a couple of watts of drag and gives ENVE wheels a sleek appearance, but truing the wheels becomes considerably more difficult when it involves tearing apart a complete tubeless tire setup, including removing the tape, before even beginning to adjust the spoke nipples. It’s not a huge issue, but most of the industry sticks with external nipples, for easy spoke tension adjustments that don’t involve tire and tape removal. 

That one issue aside, the ENVE SES 3.4 is everything we want a quiver-killer, all-around wheelset to be. As ENVE says, they are versatile, thanks to their width, aero of course (this is ENVE we’re talking about), light at 1455g, and fast, thanks to their low rolling resistance and excellent hubs. At $2850, they’re also expensive, but that’s no surprise with ENVE, a company that is still batting .1000 after a long time in the game.

Shimano Dura-Ace C50 Tubeless Disc

• MSRP $2,100
• Weight 1461g
• Width 21mm internal / 28mm external
• Priced less than many high-end competitors
• Fast everywhere
• Look the business
• Compatible with any road tire
• Compatible only with Shimano cassettes
• Hubs require proactive maintenance
• Not as wide as many compeititors

Looking at Shimano’s latest Dura-Ace C50 Tubeless Disc Wheelset, one might think that these race-bred deeps are among the most expensive carbon road wheels available. The Dura-Ace moniker, painted no less than six times on each rim, is synonymous with cost-no-object bike builds. Aside from the Dura-Ace branding, the C50 wheelset strikes a stance that looks seriously fast and thoroughly refined, as we’d expect of any wheelset at the top of the Shimano range.

And yet, the Dura Ace C50 cost $2,100 which is less than many of the other premium options on the market. It’s an interesting price point, just a few hundred dollars more than some newcomers without the race-winning pedigree, and nearly 15-20% less than other premium offerings from ENVE, Chris King, Zipp, and Roval. For racers running the requisite Shimano drivetrain, the allure of the C50 combined with its pricing makes them impossible to ignore. 

The C50’s 50mm rim is an all-around aero rim that has tangible watt-saving benefits when pedaling at high speed and also gives a huge boost on descents but never feels sluggish to spin up or maneuver. Its depth is only noticeable when starting from a complete stop and during very slow-speed maneuvers. Once you’re rolling, the C50 feels eager to attack any terrain or situation. For riders wanting a shallower rim that is quicker to spin up and change direction at high speed, Shimano offers the 36mm deep Dura Ace C36 . For racers, and I do mean racers, wanting the most free speed available, the Dura Ace C60 takes it even deeper, for high-speed races on flat to rolling terrain. Of course, most of us only want to have one high-end wheelset that can do it all, and of the Dura-Ace range, the C50 is that wheel. 

We thoroughly enjoyed riding the Dura Ace C50, which is something that isn’t always the case with wheels this deep. While it’s nice knowing on a scientific level that wheels are fast because they are deep and aerodynamically optimized for slightly wider tires, often wheels of this depth feel cumbersome to spin up and less than eager to change direction quickly, and can be less than plush throughout long rides on rough roads. The C50s offer a damped ride quality and hum happily across broken pavement. They are nimble, allowing for easy course correction at high speed when the need arises. Climbing is surprisingly nice, with a direct, eager response to accelerations and a smooth and easy efficiency during steady seated efforts. All these things are great and should be checked off by any high-end 50mm wheel, but are all outshined by how the Dura Ace C50 responds to all-out throw-downs of power. These wheels light up and burn across the tarmac.

High praise aside, an important consideration with these or any road wheels from Shimano is that Shimano hubs are now only compatible with Shimano cassettes, and it’s not possible to run these wheels with any 12-speed drivetrain from SRAM or Campagnolo. Next, Shimano hubs use a cup-and-cone style bearing system that needs to be serviced at more frequent intervals than the much more common cartridge bearing hubs. Lastly, these are road wheels, not gravel-sometimes, do whatever wheels. They do not have the ride quality and handling characteristics that work well on super rough terrain, and what little gravel we did ride rendered them less than potent weapons.

So, for those running a Shimano drivetrain who want to race or just shred aggressively on paved roads, and who ride in dry climates or don’t shy away from a little proactive hub maintenance, the Dura Ace C50 wheelset is a clear winner in the all-around deep section carbon wheel category.

OTHR Anywhr 40

• MSRP $1,749
• Weight 1360g
• Tubeless Yes, Micro-Hooked Tubeless Ready
• Rim material Toray T800s carbon fiber
• Width 24mm internal / 31mm external
• Top-shelf build
• Still moderately expensive
• Silver Holographic decals are super flashy (also come in black)

OTHR is the component division of Ritte Cycles, much like Bontrager is to Trek or Roval is to Specialized. I mention these other brands because some of their top-tier carbon wheels are priced such that not many of us can afford, or justify them. Dissatisfied with other options, the Ritte engineers set out to make wheels for the “meat of the bell curve”. So, Ritte created OTHR and went to work picking apart the most advanced wheels, in a quest to come up with something competitive with these top-tier offerings, at a more reasonable price, resulting in the brilliant Anywhr 40 Wheelset .

“Anywhr” is a fitting name for this wheelset, as it performs well on any surface, gradient, and wind condition. For us, the Anywhr 40 is most impressive on long rides where tapping out a steady pace over varied terrain is key, and wheels must balance aerodynamics, low inertia, and comfort. These wheels make sense for a large segment of riders, from dedicated road and crit racers, to endurance-focused g-roadie, or recreational riders who want to have fun and ride great wheels.

The Anywhr 40 were a breeze to set up tubeless, thanks to OTHR mounting and seating Vittoria Corsa Pro Control 30c tires before shipping the wheels. If you’re not a fan of doing tubeless setups at home, we recommend purchasing new tires with your Anywhr 40, to enjoy this convenience and get on the road quickly. 

Climbing and descending on the Anywhr 40 was dreamy. Uphill, the wheels held speed easily, seeming to smooth out the small acceleration and deceleration of each pedal stroke. This is made possible by not only the low rim weight of 395g but also the 36-tooth ratchet system in the rear hub, which engages the cassette quickly. On descents, the 24mm wide rim maximized the tire’s grip but also held shape perfectly to quickly change direction when needed. At high speed, the 40mm depth means the front wheel was stable and predictable, allowing us to descend aggressively with total confidence. 

The situation we weren’t blown away by the Anywhr 40 was in all-out sprints. These wheels feel more about consistent speed by way of low rolling resistance versus short bursts of acceleration. While some other wheels were a bit spicier than the Anywhr 40 when we had the urge to throw down our max power, those wheels’ deeper, heavier rims were also less comfortable, and not as easy to maneuver as the Anywhr 40.

After testing and loving the OTHR Anywhr 40 , we’re scratching our heads and trying to understand why many of the high-end wheels we tested cost almost double. While they may not dominate the best wheels from Zipp, ENVE, and the like in any one area, they are equal to all these wheels in that  “meat of the bell curve” Ritte references, where we do 95% of our riding. For this reason, we think they are a solid value and are worth a serious look for anyone looking to upgrade this year.

Shimano 105 C32 Tubeless Disc (WH-RS710)

• MSRP $1,050
• Weight 1504g
• Compatible with Shimano cassettes only

The Shimano 105 C32 Tubeless Disc wheelset may not be all that exciting on paper, with higher weight than some of its shallow carbon competitors, and a respectable but safe internal width of 21mm. At $1049, the price itself may even cast doubts on its ability to perform against many other wheels costing double that and beyond. 

In reality, the Shimano C32 is one of those rare but glorious products that receive very little hype and attention but deliver astonishing performance and value. On the road, the C32 is impressive, climbing much better than its weight of 1504g would suggest, gliding over weathered pavement with reassuring stability, and maneuvering precisely and confidently at any speed. 

Only at high speeds above 30 mph does it become obvious that the Shimano C32 are not as aero as some slightly deeper options in the 40mm range. That said, the C32 feel so stable and easy to maneuver at speed that it lends confidence which will in turn enable you to maneuver the bike more efficiently and go plenty fast. And, for those seeking a slightly more aero version, Shimano also makes the C46 with a 46mm rim depth.

Shimano lists one of the key features of the C32 as its ability to “be easily matched to any bike”. While it’s true that these wheels will work with any disc brake road frameset using 12×100 and 12×142 thru axles, and their subdued aesthetics won’t clash with any other equipment, the C32 is not currently compatible with bikes running SRAM or Campagnolo drivetrains. Without getting into the weeds, when running a 12-speed drivetrain, Shimano hubs are now only compatible with Shimano cassettes, and this is due mainly to SRAM’s adoption of a 10-tooth cog and development of their own “XDR” freehub system to match their 12-speed cassettes. If you’re running 11-speed SRAM and your cassette bottoms out with an 11-tooth cog, you do have the option to use the Shimano C32. 

In addition to limited compatibility, Shimano hubs use a cup-and-cone style bearing system that needs to be serviced at more frequent intervals than the much more common cartridge bearing hubs found in other wheels. Lastly, these are road wheels, not gravel-sometimes, do whatever wheels. While their moderate width and shallow depth could work well on well-packed gravel, with tires up to about 40c, we wouldn’t want to constantly expose the hubs to dust and grime that come with gravel riding. 

Those concerns aside, ride quality, precise handling, and easy acceleration are all reasons why this wheelset that costs just over $1000 is a great investment in your Shimano-equipped road bike. With the money saved by avoiding far more expensive wheels, you’ll be able to easily upgrade to a great set of tires to help the Shimano C32 Tubeless Disc wheels ride their best.

Reynolds AR 58

• MSRP $1,450
• Weight 1700g
• Brake Type Rim (Disc option available)
• Width 19mm internal / 28mm external
• Aero gains you can feel
• Fair price for a carbon wheelset
• Heavier than some of the competition
• Narrower internal width

The Reynolds AR 58 feature the same highly aerodynamic rim that is used in the more expensive AR 58X but saves $250 and adds a few grams by using mid-range Sapim Sprint spokes, brass nipples, and economically-designed hubs. While that extra mass might be noticeable on the first few turns of the pedals, once the AR 58 are up to speed, they perform just like their more expensive counterpart, the AR 58X. 

The AR 58 rim measures 58mm deep, positioning the AR 58 in the class of aero wheels that don’t just look fast, but offer a tangible feeling of free speed. The rim is optimized for 23-28c tires, although with a relatively narrow 19mm internal width, we found they handled and rolled best when shod with 25c tires. 

Out of the box, our test set of AR 58 was perfectly true and round, and the spoke tension was even. Setting the AR 58 up tubeless was a breeze, as the rims come pre-taped, and required only a floor pump to seat the tires. 

Braking is excellent on the rim brake version we tested, which is no surprise as Reynolds has long been a leader in carbon brake track performance. Reynolds’ proprietary Ctg2 brake track offers tremendous heat resistance, to prevent the dreaded loss of power and resin-melting that can occur quickly with carbon rims of lesser quality. Reynolds also includes a pair of Cryo blue brake pads, so you can be sure to have the best possible braking performance.

That said, these wheels aren’t for scenarios where braking is a priority. They wouldn’t be our first pick in mountainous terrain or urban settings. It’s not a knock on these wheels specifically, but if you’re considering a carbon rim brake wheelset upgrade, and like to climb and descend, or need to repeatedly accelerate and then stop, something with a shallower depth will fit the bill better. The AR 58 are about holding onto more speed with less effort. Group rides, flat-to-rolling road races, time trials, and high-speed KoM hunting are the realm of this seriously fast aero wheelset. 

At 1700g, with a narrower-than-average width, the AR 58 is ideal for a powerful rider who wants to turn a big gear quickly. If keeping the weight of your bike down is a priority, Reynolds also offers the AR 41, which offers significantly less aerodynamic advantage but sheds over 250g. 

The Reynolds AR 58 is a narrowly focused wheelset for a specific type of riding on roads that allow the speed to remain high at all times. That said, when used in its element, it’s one of the fastest and most fun-to-ride wheels we’ve ever tested, at a moderate price, comparatively speaking.

HED Vanquish RC4 Performance Series

• MSRP $1,750
• Weight 1542g
• Brake Type Disc
• Width 21mm internal / 30mm external
• A bit heavier than other 40mm deep options

The HED Vanquish RC4 Performance wheelset is a responsive and predictable wheel that feels ready to race anything from a gran fondo in the high mountains to an urban criterium. At 40mm deep, the rims offer a moderate aero advantage, but compared to most wheels with deep carbon rims, the Vanquish RC4 feels more eager to accelerate. This is most noticeable on steep pitches of climbs, or when pounding the pedals to gain speed out of corners. 

The Vanquish RC Performance lineup of wheels features the same rim profile as the more expensive and lighter Vanquish RC Pro lineup but uses a less expensive carbon fiber and slightly different hub internals to keep the price more approachable at $1,750 US. After spending time on a variety of HED wheels over the years from both the Performance and Pro levels, we feel that HED does an excellent job of preserving all the critical aspects of the Pro Series when tweaking the finer points to create the Performance line. Ride quality, handling, and reliability are all top-notch, just in a slightly heavier overall package. And, although the 1542g weight might make the bike feel a tad heavier to hold than some other mid-depth carbon wheels, the Vanquish “ride light”, meaning they feel quick to accelerate and hold speed well when working against gravity. 

Ride quality is direct but refined. With a 21mm internal width, the hooked, tubeless-ready Vanquish rim is optimized for tires from 25 to 30c and is compatible with both tubeless and clincher road tires. We found that the RC4 rode best with 28c tubeless tires at around 75 PSI (160lb rider), balancing low rolling resistance with razor-sharp handling. To be clear, these are road wheels, and while certainly compatible with larger gravel tires, are not as compliant as HED’s “Emporia” line of gravel wheels. We appreciate this, as we found that some wheels we’ve tried that are designed to ride well on both road and gravel lack the on-road responsiveness of the HED Vanquish. 

HED’s in-house designed GP Performance hubs feature stiff axles and a 5-pawl freehub for quick acceleration. Sealed cartridge bearings are easily replaced when the time comes. Sapim CX-Ray spokes complete the build and offer excellent ride quality and responsiveness. The HED Vanquish RC4 Performance wheelset is built by hand at HED’s facility in Roseville, Minnesota. In our experience, every HED wheel that comes out of this facility is perfectly built and runs for thousands of miles with zero issues. 

At $1,750, the HED Vanquish RC4 Performance has some stiff competition at that price point, and we feel it performs right alongside them. Sure, some options at this depth are lighter, but with the right tires at the right pressure, the extra 100g or so won’t factor into speed all that much.

Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc

• MSRP $2,700
• Weight 1410g
• Rim material OCLV Carbon fiber
• Width 23mm internal / 30.5mm external
• Lightweight and aero
• Razor sharp handling
• Lifetime warranty
• 12 speed freehubs sold separately

Using advancements in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling, Bontrager has created its fastest lineup of carbon road wheels ever, with the Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc anchoring the range as a versatile all-around aero option weighing just 1410 grams and delivering a super smooth ride. Previously, CFD modeling was limited to two-dimensional simulations of air turbulence, but now, according to Bontrager, engineers “run the whole design process in three dimensions. Now we can account for every gram of drag in every direction through every plane across all aspects of the wheel.” 

The benefit is a rim that is not only better in calm conditions but also more stable in the wind and offers lower tire rolling resistance. Reduced rolling resistance is now the primary driver of increased speed, and while a lot of the gains are from tire compounds, rims like the Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc have grown wider – 23mm internally in this case –  to spread and support the tire so it can work as efficiently as possible. How efficiently you might ask? Well, according to Bontrager, when tested with a 25c Bontrager tubeless clincher the Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc saved 6.3 watts at 28mph, over the outgoing Aelous XXX 47mm with a sew-up tubular. 

Moving away from the exceptionally fast rims, Bontrager continued to choose the best for the Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc, building them with DT Swiss 240 hubs. The DT 240 is a step up from the venerable DT 350, providing a reduction in weight and offering good engagement in the rear by way of a 36-tooth star ratchet EXP freehub system. 

The Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc wheels feel incredibly fast on the road. The gains in aerodynamic and rolling efficiency are especially evident on downhills where even a moderately fit rider can easily hit or exceed the types of speeds for which these wheels are optimized. Even steep climbs were a welcome sight, as the responsiveness of the entire wheel system, and especially the rapidly engaging rear hub, seemed to flatten and shorten every steep pitch. 

At $2700, you’d expect nothing less, but it’s fair to say that it’s easy to spend as much or more and not get as much speed as the Aeolus RSL 51 TLR Disc delivers. Knowing that these wheels are easy to service, with external nipples, DT Swiss sealed bearing hubs, and come with a full crash replacement guarantee for 2 years, as well as a lifetime warranty, you can rest easy, knowing your money was spent on new PR’s, not gimmicks, and your investment is protected in the event of a crash.

HiFi The 45 Disc Carbon Clinchers

• MSRP $2,090
• Weight 1520g
• Balanced aerodynamics and
• Heavier than other 45mm options

HiFi’s The 45 Disc Carbon is an all-around race wheelset that delivers free speed, comfortable ride quality, and predictable handling across a wide spectrum of riding, from criteriums to fast-paced gravel races. At 45mm deep, the Anti-flutter (toroidal) carbon rim provides a noticeable and measurable aero advantage without the impact on low-speed acceleration, comfort, or maneuverability that accompany much deeper rims. 

At 21mm internal and 25mm external width, The 45 rim also supports the larger 28c and beyond road tires that have become the norm since the advent of disc brakes. Since the rim is micro-hooked, The 45 is compatible with any clincher or tubeless-ready tire on the market. The micro-hook offers the tire security of a traditional hooked rim but also smooths out the rim-tire interface for better aerodynamics and impact protection. Tubeless tape and valves are included with each set of The 45 Clincher Wheels.

Setting up The 45 tubeless was easy, with a single layer of HiFi’s own tubeless tape, and a standard floor pump. The 45 were shod in Vittoria Corsa Pro Control 28c tires, which measured 29.3mm when inflated to 75 PSI. 

On the road, The 45 Carbon Clinchers inspire the confidence to get up to speed and stay there, whether on windy flat sections, climbs, or descents. The Sapim bladed spokes and Japanese-manufactured stainless bearings inside the HiFi R36 hubs ensure that the entire wheel system runs comfortably and smoothly. Freehub engagement is rapid, thanks to a 4-pawl system engaging a 36-tooth ring in the rear, making those steep pitches and sudden surges of speed things to relish. 

At $2090, HiFi’s The 45 Clincher sits at a competitive price point alongside Shimano’s Dura-Ace C50 ($2099) and a few hundred dollars more than other high-achieving wheels in this test, like the HED Vanquish RC4 ($1750). Since you can’t really go wrong, the decision between these three wheels should be made based on the marginal differences. For instance, while the Dura-Ace C50 might have a bit more bling and carry a smidge more speed on the fastest routes, the cup-and-cone bearings in the hubs require more proactive maintenance and are only compatible with Shimano freehubs. While the HED Vanquish RC4 is less expensive and feels a bit more pugnacious on grippy climbs, the HiFi are more compliant and potentially a bit more aero thanks to 5mm of additional depth. 

In other words, HiFi’s The 45 Disc Carbon are a balanced, versatile, all-around great set of wheels that competes with some of the best around. They also happen to look great, in our opinion, and pair particularly well with HiFi’s black/gold handlebar tape .

Ritchey Classic Zeta Disc Wheels

• Weight 1750g
• Brake Type Disc, 6-bolt
• Depth 23.4mm
• Width 19.5mm internal / 24.4mm external
• Classic aesthetics
• Smooth handling
• Affordable quality
• Not ideal for tires >28c
• 6-bolt disc rotor interface only
• Heavier weight

The Ritchey Classic Zeta Disc wheelset stands out from the stealthy masses of disc brake wheels, built with high-polish components that are also high-performance and high-value. For 2024, Ritchey engineers have upgraded the Classic Zeta disc with a 4-pawl freehub for faster drivetrain engagement, and DT Swiss Competition spokes for reliable performance mile after mile. 

The Classic Zeta Disc features a shallow aluminum rim that is compliant, easy to maneuver, and quick to spin up. The rim width is a conservative but reasonable 19.5mm internally, and 24.4mm externally, which means that the Classic Zeta Disc will work best with tires ranging from 25-28c. The Classic Zeta disc will safely accept tires larger than that but will create a bit of the lightbulb profile that wider rims prevent. If running wider tires in the 30-35c range is important, the Ritchey WCS Zeta Disc wheels are worth a look. 

For recreational road riding, the Classic Zeta Disc is a blissful mixture of smooth and compliant ride quality, easy acceleration, and stable handling. Compared to an OE (Original Equipment) wheelset, The Classic Zeta Disc is an impactful upgrade and well worth the cost of $449 US. 

The disc brake interface is 6-bolt, which is a less common spec of disc rotor, and something to be aware of when setting up the Classic Zeta Disc. It’s fairly unlikely that the rotors that are coming off of OE wheels are compatible, so factor in the expense of a pair of 6-bolt rotors into the setup cost of the Classic Zeta Disc. 

Aside from that small compatibility issue, the Classic Zeta Disc is an easy wheelset to own and ride. If you plan to use them on paved roads only, we recommend setting the Classic Zeta with innertubes, to avoid the additional expense of tubeless tape and valves, neither of which are included. In our opinion, the benefits of tubeless road tires are marginal at best with tires under 30c, which is simply a bigger tire than what is optimal for the Classic Zeta Disc rim. 

The hubs use sealed cartridge bearings which run smooth and are easily replaced when the time comes. Brass spoke nipples won’t corrode and lend a stout reliability to the build of the Classic Zeta Disc.

At 1750g, one could label the Classic Zeta Disc as a heavy road wheelset, but we take a more nuanced view, which is that it’s important to avoid compounding the weight of these wheels by pairing them with heavy tires. This is another reason to go with a lightweight 25-28c clincher and lightweight innertube, versus a likely heavier road tubeless tire setup. 

The Classic Zeta also makes a great workhorse training or winter wheelset for a classy metal bike, so you can preserve your carbon deeps for summertime when fitness and riding conditions are at their peak. At $449.00, the Ritchey Classic Zeta disc is a robust and classic wheel that will carry you through countless rides in efficient comfort with money left in your bank account.

Comparison Chart

Why you should trust us.

At Bikerumor, we love riding our bikes and we’re always seeking out the latest and greatest products to help improve our performance and enhance our experience out on the road. And, we know that a quality set of road bike wheels is one of the best performance upgrades you can make. Fortunately, we’re always testing out fresh new wheels, and we get to try just about everything on the market. This gives us the opportunity to pass along our experience and help you navigate the myriad options that are out there.

For this buyer’s guide, author Bennett Shane did a large group test including the majority of the models included, supplemented by a few models that our editorial team has tested and loved. Bennett is an avid road cyclist who has been riding seriously for over two decades. Though his racing days are largely behind him, he still rides obsessively for fun, fitness, and to test out a huge range of cycling products for reviews. Bennett spent many years working at various prominent brands in the cycling industry and is about as knowledgeable as one can be about cycling products and technologies from apparel to components. His road cycling and industry experience combine to give him a keen ability to analyze the gear he tests, and we’ve called on that skill a lot lately for a huge range of road cycling-specific buyer’s guides. In addition to road bike wheels, Bennett has tested apparel like cycling bib shorts and jackets, components like road bike pedals , and accessories including road bike shoes and helmets.

To test wheels, we received each model and set up each wheelset tubeless. For the vast majority of the wheels included here, we used the Vittoria Pro Control TLR in 28mm as a control tire, although a few models were tested with other road bike tires for various reasons. We used Silca’s Tire Pressure Calculator to ensure that tire pressure was optimal and in most cases rode the wheels over the same test route to compare them in the same scenarios and surface conditions. The primary test route features flat, rolling, and hilly terrain with climbs topping out at around the 25-minute mark for a well-trained rider. We also intentionally rode deeper wheels whenever windy conditions arrived, to test their stability. We did not use a wind tunnel to verify any aerodynamic claims made by manufacturers, instead, we chose to focus on the tangible things that most riders care about, such as ride quality, handling, acceleration, durability, and serviceability, including warranty and crash replacement provisions.

Buying Advice: How to Choose Road Bike Wheels

With so many road bike wheels to choose from, finding the right set of new hoops can seem like a daunting proposition. Some considerations are pretty straightforward, like choosing wheels for disc or rim brakes, but there are many other factors to weigh when making a purchase decision. Below, we provide a little explanation about choices in rim material, rim width, rim depth, tire compatibility, freehub bodies, and more.

Rim Material

The material used in the construction of the rims is one of the biggest factors separating aftermarket road bike wheels. Most road bike rims are made from either aluminum or carbon fiber and there are great wheels being produced in either material.

Carbon Fiber

Since carbon wheelset pricing starts above where aluminum wheels typically max out, it’s fair to assume that simply by choosing a carbon fiber wheel, your bike will instantly be much lighter. In reality, carbon fiber rims are often no lighter than aluminum rims, and depending on the depth of the rim, can often result in a hefty wheel that won’t be particularly fun for climbing. Of course, aerodynamics are a bigger concern than weight for many riders, and here carbon fiber has an undeniable advantage over aluminum, in that it can molded into an array of shapes to cheat the wind.

While rim material has only a fraction of the effect on ride quality as tires do, carbon rims do typically give any bike a more damped, efficient ride quality, most noticeable on rougher surfaces. Carbon fiber, and more specifically the interfaces in the composite structure, have a greater ability to absorb high-frequency vibration than aluminum. This feeling has been enhanced by the advent of disc brakes, as engineers are now free to design the rim/tire interface with no braking in mind. With the brake track out of the picture, the trend has been to use less carbon at the outermost edge of the rim, and to size and shape the carbon such that it promotes better shock absorption and lower rolling resistance through the tires.

The primary downside to carbon fiber is that it is expensive, with carbon wheels often costing double that of their aluminum counterparts. And, until very recently, carbon fiber rims haven’t been the most environmentally friendly given the difficulty of recycling the material. A small handful of brands are now making carbon fiber rims with thermoplastic resin that makes them more easily recyclable including the Chris King ARD44 wheels which are made with thermoplastic Fusion Fiber .

Aluminum has been used for many years in the production of road bike wheels and is generally much more affordable than carbon fiber. Not only is the raw material less expensive, but the production costs are also typically much lower. As a result, most aluminum road bike wheels are less expensive, though there are still plenty of premium aluminum options. Due to the lower cost, many low to mid-range complete bike builds will usually come with aluminum wheels/rims. This is not to say that wheels made with aluminum rims won’t be a performance upgrade over a set of cheaper stock wheels, far from it. In fact, there are aluminum wheels that rival their carbon counterparts in terms of both weight and ride quality, while beating them handily when it comes to price. A prime example is the Roval Alpinist SLX , which at $800 are much more affordable than premium carbon options without giving up much in terms of performance.

Road rims have grown in width recently to improve their compatibility with the corresponding growth in the width of road bike tires. Some brands and models are now at 25mm in internal width, a 20% increase in some cases from just a few years ago. The width refers to the internal distance between the bead hooks on the inside of the rim, not the external width including the bead walls. Increasing internal width improves the relationship between the rim and tire, particularly when using wider tires. Wider modern road tires in the 28-32c range will take on a more domed shape with slightly larger air volume when mounted to a wider rim, thus improving the aerodynamics of the rim/tire system as a whole, while reducing rolling resistance, improving handling, and boosting comfort through a larger volume of air.

In our opinion, rims narrower than 21mm (internal) are almost outdated at this point. Rims in the 21-23mm wide range are adequately wide for any true road tire. Rims with 25mm internal width are designed and intended to be able to accommodate road and gravel tires that are upwards of 40mm in width, so while not any disadvantage, per se, this rim width means those rims will typically only work for tires 28c and wider. That said, those who like to explore smooth gravel or poorly maintained paved mountain roads may enjoy the benefits of a wider rim paired with a plumper all-road tire. It is worth mentioning that since older frames, whether made for rim or disc brakes, may be designed to only clear a maximum of 25mm, you’ll want to check out the areas of your frame and fork where clearance is tight, to ensure that newer, wider rims will be compatible and safe to ride.

With many aftermarket road bike wheels being made for purposes like aerodynamics or climbing/lightweight, the rims themselves are being designed differently for their specific use cases. One of the most obvious and visible differentiators is the depth of the rims which range from deep to shallow, and everything in between. In general, the deeper a rim gets, the more aerodynamic it becomes, so aero wheels typically have a taller rim profile, usually 40-50mm and above. While deep section rims can provide aerodynamic benefits, the extra material needed to construct them can add weight and the additional structure can present as stiffer and less forgiving than lower-profile options. Aero rims are also more susceptible to the effects of cross winds which can impact your bike’s stability and handling in gusty conditions.

Shallow section rims typically don’t provide the same aerodynamic benefits as deeper aero rims, but they are generally lighter-weight and the lower profile of the rim allows them to be a bit more compliant. While that is a very broad generalization, most super light climbing wheels also happen to be relatively low-profile. Many modern all-around wheels have a mid-section depth, 30-40mm or so, which aims to balance the attributes of low weight, ride quality, and aerodynamic benefits. These are often the best choice for riders who want a wheelset that performs day in and day out on any type of ride.

Tire Compatibility

Virtually all road bike wheels being produced these days are compatible with some tubeless road tires. However, you need to be sure that you use tires that are compatible with your specific rims. Each type of rim has advantages and drawbacks. This is particularly true of hookless tubeless rims which are not compatible with all tubeless tires and are wholly incompatible with clincher tires. Hookless tubeless rims have comparatively limited tire options and should only be used with ETRTO-approved hookless tubeless tires, but provide the best impact protection for the rim, and complement larger, 28-32c tires best. While many of the best road bike wheel manufacturers in the business are making hookless road rims and wheels, there is plenty of lively debate about hookless rims and tires for road riding.

Hooked tubeless-ready rims feature a small bead “hook” that is intended to provide added security with the bead of the tires. Hooked tubeless rims offer compatibility with any tire, but are slightly more vulnerable to impact and may incur a very slight aero penalty at the rim-tire interface in some cases. Clincher rims may still be available but have dwindled with the industry-wide transition to tubeless. Clincher tires are compatible with tubeless-ready hooked and micro-hooked rims but require a tube. Clincher rims and tires are easy to set up and maintain if you’re okay with foregoing tubeless technology. 

-Hookless tubeless rim compatibility: APPROVED hookless tubeless tires (with or without inner tube)

-Hooked tubeless-ready clincher rim compatibility: ALL tubeless and clincher tires (with or without tube)

-Clincher rim compatibility: ALL tubeless and clincher tires (WITH innertube)

Brakes and Axles

Almost every new bike released in 2023 and 2024 is being made for use with 12mm thru-axles and disc brakes with a few exceptions. And after years of mixing road and MTB technology together to form a maelstrom of “standards”, things have settled down and are more straightforward in terms of wheel-to-frame and hub-to-brake compatibility. The standards are below.

-Axles: 100mm x 12mm front; 142mm x 12mm rear. 

-Brake rotor interface: Center lock is the most common by far, although there are some 6-bolt hubs available as well.

There are still plenty of folks who prefer rim brakes and there are quite a few rim brake frames in use (and some still being produced), so they are still relevant but less common. Fortunately, there are still quite a few wheels being produced for rim brakes, and we tested a few of the best options available. The HED Ardennes RA Black and the HiFi EP30 SL Rim Brake Carbon wheels are a couple of our favorites.

Many of you reading this may have bikes made from 2013-2018 that use disc brakes but also have dropouts made for traditional quick-release skewers (9mm) to hold the hub axles in the frame and fork. Therefore, you’ll need to confirm that any wheel you purchase to upgrade this bike can be converted to quick-release axles with different end caps. This is done by changing the end caps and is an easy job, assuming that quick-release end caps are included or available for the wheels you are choosing. 

When selecting wheels online, the vendor will typically present a menu of freehub options that correspond to the type of cassette that will be mounted on the hub rear wheel. Options will include Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, Campagnolo, and possibly Shimano Mircospline. If the option you need isn’t available at the time of purchase, it likely can be ordered directly from the manufacturer separately, at an additional cost. Most wheel and hub manufacturers make a full assortment of freehub bodies, with some notable exceptions, the most glaring of which is Shimano, which only offers freehubs that are optimized for its own Hyperglide and Microspline cassette interfaces. While other 11-speed cassettes, and 12-speed cassettes from alternative brands, like Rotor and KMC, are compatible with Shimano wheels, SRAM and Campagnolo 12-speed cassettes are not. 

Freehub Engagement

Freehub engagement is an often overlooked aspect of road wheel performance and is a big deal for riders who like to ride in hilly terrain or race. Without getting too technical, higher engagement hubs decrease the number of degrees between engagement points and therefore the delay from when your power hits the pedal to when the cassette engages, and that power is translated into forward progress. While freehub engagement speed is arguably less important in road cycling where riders typically spin the pedals at a smoother, more even cadence than mountain bikers or gravel riders, quick engagement is appreciated by many on the road as well. Hubs using at least 5 “pawls” or a “ratchet” system will provide this rapid engagement, and you’ll feel it working when hopping out of the saddle on a steep climb or accelerating hard out of a corner. 

Hub Bearings

The majority of road bike wheels spin on steel bearings because they are more affordable, work well, and typically last a pretty long time. Ceramic bearings are a popular upgrade option in ultra-premium wheels. Harder than steel, with a smoother surface and more uniform dimensions, ceramic bearings distribute the load equally across every ball while also reducing friction. The result is less power required from the rider to spin the bearing. Without exposure to extreme contamination from road spray or pressure washing, ceramic bearings may outlast steel bearings in most situations. Good thing, too, as they cost as much as some nice wheelsets to replace if they ever do wear out. The bottom line is that cycling never gets easier, you just go faster, so if you’re looking for wheels to change the way your bike rides, ceramic bearings are not necessary. If you’re looking for every possible efficiency gain for your next race, or to own every piece of bling kit under the sun, then go ceramic. If you’re ceramic-curious but it’s not an option at the time of purchase, you can typically upgrade down the line. 

Spoke count refers to the number of spokes connecting the hub to the rim. Generally speaking, the more spokes used to build a wheel, the stiffer, more durable, and heavier that wheel is. Spoke quality, nipple material, build quality, rim design, rider weight, and especially use case all factor into determining the correct spoke count for your next wheelset. But spoke count alone should not be used as a threshold for a wheel to be considered durable, stiff, or safe. High-quality spokes, laced to well-designed rims by hand will often facilitate a lower spoke count with no compromises on stiffness and durability. 

Internal nipples on tubeless rims can be problematic from a maintenance standpoint. While this design may offer a small aerodynamic advantage and offer svelte aesthetics, it also requires removal and reinstallation of the tubeless tire system to make adjustments to spoke tension. It’s an added cost or time requirement that is something to be aware of. 

Carbon spokes are becoming more prevalent, and while they tangibly improve responsiveness, the potential downtime to source replacements makes this a choice worthy of shrewd judgment. If you’re on the lighter side, tend to ride smooth roads that are close to home, and have the budget to preemptively order some compatible spares, carbon spokes are a nice upgrade. All mid-range and high-end spokes are bladed or butted to varying degrees. These features help increase strength, improve ride quality, save weight, and enhance aerodynamics. Straight pull spokes also bolster responsiveness and overall wheel strength. Top spokes include Sapim CX-Ray and Sprint, DT Swiss Aerolite, and Aerocomp, but numerous options compete with these. If a wheelset doesn’t disclose the type of spoke used in the build, or only the brand, it’s worth digging to find out, as this part of the wheel is sadly often used as a cost-control measure, and yet is critical to how a wheel feels, performs, and holds together long-term. 

While a nice set of aftermarket wheels can absolutely be a major performance upgrade, many premium options cost more than some complete bikes. Fancier materials, high-end hubs, ceramic bearings, carbon fiber production costs, and lots of engineering may factor into the price of many wheels to make the price higher. Of course, if cost isn’t a concern, then some of the super-premium wheels like the Chris King ARD44 or the Cadex 36 Disc may be just the ticket to transform the way your bike rides. Still, many of the performance gains may only truly matter to high-performance cyclists and racers.

If, like most people, you aren’t swimming in cash, then there are some better values to be found in more moderately priced wheels with performance differences that will likely be negligible. Of course, when we say “moderately priced” we are talking about wheels in the $1,500 to $1,800 range, like the Reserve 40|44 DT 350 , or the OTHR Anywhr 40 , which still probably sounds expensive to lots of people. But, when compared to wheels that cost $2,500 or more, they are certainly more affordable, comparatively speaking.

Since even mid-range road bike wheels will still be out of many people’s budget, it’s good to know that there are quite a few aftermarket options that will blow the performance of most stock wheels out of the water. A couple of good examples are the $800 Roval Alpinist SLX or the $550 Vision Trimax 35 DB CL wheels. These wheels may be made with aluminum rims, but they perform well while costing a fraction of the price of many of the high-end competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The wheels on your road bike are one of the components that can have a noticeable impact on the performance of your bike and your comfort and enjoyment on the road. The stock wheels that come on many complete bikes, particularly low-mid priced builds, are often chosen not for their performance, but as a way for brands to save money. By investing in a quality set of aftermarket wheels, you can choose a model that offers specific performance benefits to suit your needs and preferences.

Deep-section aero wheels can provide improved aerodynamics to help powerful riders or racers move faster. Feathery climbing wheels can help riders get up hills faster. Mid-depth all-around wheels can do everything pretty darn well and many wheels can enhance the ride quality of your bike through vibration-damping, resulting in a smoother, faster ride with greater control, comfort, and less fatigue.

When considering a road bike wheel upgrade, that usually means spending money with the goal of improving your bike’s performance and enhancing its ride quality. More often than not, this means shelling out big bucks for a wheelset with carbon fiber rims. While there are plenty of excellent aluminum wheelsets on the market, carbon fiber does have some advantages.

Carbon rims are generally lighter than comparable aluminum rims. Carbon fiber absorbs vibration more readily than aluminum for a smoother, more comfortable ride. Carbon can also be manipulated in ways to produce specific shapes and performance characteristics. Carbon is also very strong, and many rims come with exceptional warranties (lifetime in some cases) that can help justify the higher price. And, while carbon wheels have traditionally been very pricey, some brands and models are now only just a little more expensive (or less) than nice aluminum models. Hunt is a good example, as their Aerodynamicist wheelset costs $1,279 .

There’s a reason that time trialists wear silly helmets and ride deep-section wheels when they’re racing. Aerodynamics matter. The benefits of aero road wheels may not be worth the cost for purely recreational riders, but racers who are seeking to squeeze out every marginal gain possible can often find some extra speed and time on the clock by riding them. While the deeper rims add some weight, that is typically offset by the rim’s ability to cut more smoothly through the air. These benefits are most tangible in race situations, flat and rolling terrain, and over time. There are numerous studies and testing results that can be found online that back this up.

That said, deep-section aero rims are often less ideal for climbing due to the added weight, and they can sometimes be less stable in cross-winds compared to shallower rim profiles. For this reason, many manufacturers are producing mid-depth rims in the 40mm range that provide a slight aero advantage while keeping weight lower and reducing cross-wind instability.

The best road bike wheels are the ones that are geared towards the type of riding you do most of the time . Do you spend significant amounts of time climbing big hills? Then a light, feathery, responsive wheelset can help reduce the overall weight of your bike and rotational mass, and make climbing more enjoyable. Do you ride mostly on flat or gently rolling terrain? Then perhaps a deep-section wheel is a good choice to help maximize your aerodynamic gains.

Do you ride all types of terrain? The happy middle ground between the lightweight climbing wheels and the aero wheels is probably the best bet for finding a well-rounded wheelset that does everything pretty darn well. Do you ride rough pavement, sometimes find yourself on well-maintained gravel roads, or switch it up between gravel and road riding? Some of the new, wider (25mm internal) wheels on the market might be the best fit. These wheels work well with bigger all-road and gravel tires which can enhance comfort and control on mixed surfaces.

Hookless rims gained popularity in the mountain and gravel worlds but have recently caught on in road cycling as well. Traditionally, road rims had small hooks on the bead wall (and many still do) that are intended to interface with the bead of the tire for a secure connection between the two. More recently, many road rim and wheel manufacturers have done away with the bead hooks, hence the term hookless, as it makes the rims slightly easier to produce, is claimed to make them more resistant to damage from impact, and the lack of the bead hook provides a smoother transition between the tire and rim and can improve aerodynamics slightly. Without the bead hook, however, hookless rims are only intended for use with ETRTO-approved hookless compatible tires that have been produced to meet higher tolerances on hookless rims. Hookless tubeless rims generally have lower maximum pressures and there is guidance on tire compatibility from ETRTO and from the brands themselves.

Does anyone need to ride hookless tubeless road wheels? Not necessarily, but many of the best road bike wheels on the market use hookless rims. That said, this technology is hotly debated and many riders believe it is unnecessary and unsafe. Regardless of public opinion, hookless tubeless wheel and tire combinations are ridden safely by many thousands of cyclists, and it is here to stay.

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