This derivative of Fulcrum’s popular Racing 5 wheelset gets specially treated bearings for ‘filthy conditions’ use. The tough Racing 5 structure uses a 24mm eyeletted rim with 20 front and 24 rear flat-bladed spokes under high tension.
They’re arranged 2:1 between two cross driveside and radial offside at the rear, for a solid feel under power, while steel axles amplify the tight cornering feel. The heavily machined steel freehub also picks up drive quickly, which helps offset slightly high weight for its price.
The ‘CX’ cartridge bearings spin beautifully with a double base coating for weatherproofing. The snap-on plastic spoke covers have a large centre hole, which makes regular cleaning of collected gunk a wise precaution.
This article was originally published in Triathlon Plus magazine.
