Shimano 105 R561 review

These sturdy hoops are low on weight and not too high on price. The rims are well finished, laced up with straight pull, stainless, butted and blade section spokes – 16 at the front and 24 at the rear.

The nipples are at the hub to reduce rotating mass at the outside of the wheel. The bearings are loose ball, making for easy servicing and adjustment, and out of the box they are silky smooth. Although these wheels feel a little springy at times, they are big on compliance and comfort. Acceleration is quick, and if they were a little more precise at higher speeds they would be right up there with the very best in this price range. This aside, they’re really very good wheels at a reasonable price.