Cracked rims and broken spokes are typical long-term damage to modern system wheels. This was confirmed by our first Durability test in TOUR 7/2013in which we compared the mid-range models with aluminium rims from the leading manufacturers with each other. This is confirmed not least by the numerous letters from readers following the test.
Although particularly light rims and few spokes with high tension are beneficial for measurable technical properties such as weight, stiffness, acceleration and aerodynamics, they can form a problematic combination when it comes to durability. In the first TOUR endurance test of 16 models with aluminium rims on the roller test bench of Ralf Bohle GmbH, manufacturer of Schwalbe tyres, two wheelsets from Easton and the Shimano WH-RS 61 (rim cracks at the spoke holes and even torn spokes) as well as the Ksyrium SLS wheel from Mavic (broken aluminium spoke) showed signs of damage. The rest of the test field went through the procedure unscathed, apart from repairable lateral impacts on the Campagnolo Scirocco, Citec 3000 Classic and DT Swiss RR21 Dicut.
Opportunity for outsiders
The second part now features ten interesting models that were either not yet available in the spring or did not make it into the first field of participants because the brand is not so widespread.
The test results of these brand new 2014 models can be found below as a PDF download:
- Aerycs A 2730 SL
- American Classic Argent Tubeless Road
- Bontrager Race X Lite TLR
- FSA Energy
- Reynolds Stratus Pro
- Ritchey Zeta II WCS
- Rose RS 1400
- Shimano Ultegra 6800
- Veltec Speed AL
- Vision T30
TOUR is also available digital->
Downloads:
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