Fulcrum says its new Soniq 42 wheels “maximise comfort” thanks to their FF80 carbon lamination rims, while the sawtooth rim profile optimises aerodynamics and stability.
These features are a combination of technology that debuted on Fulcrum’s most recent wheels. The carbon lamination appeared on Fulcrum’s Wind wheels in 2023 and the ‘2-Wave’ rim profile is borrowed from its more recent Sharq wheels.
Fulcrum says the Soniq 42 is suitable for road and gravel riding. “It’s the ideal choice for anyone seeking a unique, distinctive, and functional wheel – ready to handle any road with ease and unmistakable style,” the brand says.
Maximum comfort
While Fulcrum hasn’t given much away about its FF80 lamination, it says the carbon design provides “maximum comfort, especially on long rides and mixed surfaces”.
When it launched the Wind wheels, Fulcrum also said the FF80 mix helped keep weight down compared to the carbon used in the Fulcrum Speed wheels, which had the same rim shape. So this carbon contributes to the Soniq’s claimed weight of 1,595g, too.
The Soniq 42 has Fulcrum’s 2-Way Fit technology, where an undrilled rim bed means you can fit tubeless tyres without rim tape.
“This makes the wheel not only stronger but also easier to manage and maintain – making Soniq 42 ideal for both seasoned cyclists and those seeking a high-quality, hassle-free product,” says Fulcrum.
2-Wave rim
The most distinctive feature of the Soniq 42 is the sawtooth rim, which it borrows from the Sharq wheels.
It’s a design we’ve seen from other brands, such as Zipp and Princeton CarbonWorks, and Fulcrum says it “optimises aerodynamics and stability”.
Fulcrum hasn’t gone into any more detail, but if the rim is identical to that of its Sharq wheels, it should save 21 per cent energy at 0-10 degrees of yaw, and 29 per cent at 10-20 degrees.
Due to the wavy design, the rim depth varies from 42 to 47mm. Fulcrum says this “contributes to the wheel’s dynamic and responsive behavior”.
The rim has an internal width of 25mm.
A hub derived from the Wind series
Fulcrum says the hub on the Soniq 42 wheels is “derived” from the hub used on its Wind wheels.
With an aluminium body, the hub has sealed bearings and preload adjustment. Fulcrum says this “ensures long-lasting smooth rolling” for a “solid and precise ride feel”.
The new Soniq 42 wheelset costs £1,599.99 / $2,079 / €1,590.
