Reynolds have brought out a tubular version of their well-respected Assault wheels. Not only are they lighter than the Assault clinchers, they're also £50 cheaper.
The 46mm-deep flat-sided rims provide an aerodynamic advantage over shallower ones, but aren’t as fast as the advanced bulged or toroidal profiles from other manufacturers. They also catch side winds more.
Rather than bladed DT Swiss spokes, Reynolds have used different grades of carbon and a less intricate lay-up within and around the rim. This cuts the price and only slightly increases weight.
A scrim layer on the braking track lengthens rim life and gives powerful, consistent braking. Unfortunately, it doesn’t hold high speeds as well as more expensive hoops do.
During steady efforts at lower speeds, these weaknesses were less noticeable.