HuntBikeWheels is the latest brand to join the world of wheel tech. The company’s first range shows a focus on tubeless-ready road wheels with wide rims and disc-specific options.
The first wheel from Hunt is a collaborative piece with the new Mason Progressive Cycles bike company, founded by Dom Mason after his 15 years with Kinesis. Called the Mason X Hunt Four Season Disc, the wheels are designed for all-year use and were created to complement that brand’s “small batch, quality crafted and detailed bicycles”.
Full details are as yet unavailable, but Hunt has confirmed that that wheels will be available in 22 to 24mm width rims, will weigh between 1,395 and 1,650g and cost £200 to £450 (US$300 to 675). The wheels will go on sale in March, with rim-brake models following in April.
Tech used in the wheels’ production includes sealed bearings by EZO Japan and triple-butted stainless aero PSR spokes from Pillar. The rims are made from super-light niobium alloy, which according to Hunt uses an advanced T10 heat treatment process to deliver outstanding weight, stiffness and durability. This means rims can be wider and deeper yet maintain uphill performance, thanks to their low weight.
It’s been a speedy journey from idea to inception for HuntBikeWheels – founder Tom Marchment began the project in September 2014. Sourcing, development, testing and production have all happened in only four months. The name comes from the brand’s search for improving every element of the wheels.
Marchment says: “Having tested tubeless extensively on and off road we know it answers many issues; noticeably improving ride quality, grip and puncture protection. We see tubeless-tyres as offering the greatest benefits for year round and winter-riding when poor road conditions and punctures are a major issue, hence several Hunt wheels are aimed at this type of riding”.
“I’ve been working with my brother Peter at his company ITS Cycling Ltd since August 2014. We both knew the spec of the wheels we wanted to ride ourselves but they weren't easily available from other wheel brands. We ideally wanted to buy from a wheel company that we could contact directly to get help and spares if needed. Then we thought; there are loads of other riders we know that want the same, here’s an opportunity to use our expertise and customer service skills to help, and of course we kind of love of cycling… a lot.”
The wheels will be available through local bike shops or direct with worldwide shipping from the HuntBikeWheels website. Check out the gallery above for more pics.