Velocity USA recently announced the release of its new Blunt SS rim, a cross-country oriented aluminium hoop that boasts a very generous 26.6mm internal width (30mm external measurement) plus some impressive claimed weight figures. The 29er version supposedly comes in at 425g, while the 27.5in model is just 395g.
The SS is the third iteration of Velocity's popular Blunt rim family. Despite the nomenclature, Velocity says the SS is lighter than both the original and the SL versions thanks to thinner extrusion walls, but yet also supposedly stronger given the more generous dimensions and thicker spoke bed.
Velocity's new Blunt SS rim looks to be an appealing option not just for XC riding but for CX, too
Meanwhile, shallow bead hooks and a wider internal shelf promise to make the SS more tubeless-friendly, particularly with wider-profile tyres that are often more difficult to keep from burping at low pressures – which should make the SS a potentially appealing option for cyclocross racers, too.
For now, Velocity will only offer the Blunt SS in 27.5in and 29in diameters and 32-hole or 28-hole drillings but in your choice of four colors: anodized black, anodized silver, white, and polished. Bare rims retail for US$110.99; complete wheelsets range from US$789.99-1,089.99. (UK and Australian pricing was not immediately available.)
For more information visit www.velocityusa.com.
