Redesigned for 2008, these ultra modern wheels have the distinctive paired spoke pattern that can be traced back to the revolutionary Rolf Vector design that was responsible for setting the trend for machine-built wheels 10 years ago.
The hubs are a work of art, with their cutaway sections for the crossing spokes to rest in and their smooth-running cartridge bearings.
These are laced to 20 DT Aerolite spokes arranged in a crossed pattern for the rear, and 18 for the front that leave the hub at an acute tangential angle to minimise stresses. We question the virtue of using weight-saving aluminium nipples, though, as adjusting them could prove difficult were the flats to round off as a result of the thread seizing in the spoke after being used on salty British roads.
These wheels rival the Mavic Ksyriums for outright speed and lateral stiffness. But don’t be deceived by the large area of the rim that appears to be unsupported by the spokes, as brake rub was absent and they remained perfectly true throughout testing. They’re supplied with titanium skewers.