In understated grey, the DT R1600s are quite ordinary looking wheels. Their slim, silver, DT aero spokes laced 24 at the front and 28 at the rear do nothing to dispel that illusion. Even the quirky quick-release lever doesn’t add much excitement.
But in terms of performance, the silky smooth DT hubs hint at what these wheels are about. The ride offers plenty of feedback from the road without jarring you, and deals well with broken road surfaces. Quick enough to put a collective smile on our faces, and capable of climbing with purpose, nothing could unsettle them.
The R1600s would make an excellent all-day choice for sportives, some racing or as a superior training wheel, because the quality flows through the frame making them a pleasure to ride. The patented freehub design allows for very high load capacity and reliability, and needs no tools for routine maintenance. The rims also feature wear indicators for safety.
