1 Year Review of Elite Wheels 88mm Carbon Clincher Rim Brake Wheels
In the realm of cycling enthusiasts, finding the right wheels can transform your riding experience significantly. With so many options available, triathletes and cyclists alike often find themselves seeking components that balance performance, cost, and aesthetics. This article dives into a comprehensive review of the Elite Wheels 88mm Carbon Clincher Rim Brake Wheels, after a year of rigorous testing and performance in various triathlons.
Presentation of Elite Wheels
Elite Wheels, a brand based in China, specializes in the manufacture of carbon wheels meant for different cycling disciplines, including road cycling and triathlons. They have garnered attention not only for their performance but also for their competitive pricing. These wheels are designed to meet the needs of both casual cyclists and competitive athletes, and they have even sponsored some professional teams, adding credibility to their offerings.
Why Choose Elite Wheels?
After purchasing the Elite Wheels from Amazon for an attractive price of approximately $580 CAD or $410 USD it’s clear why these carbon wheels are generating buzz in the cycling community. Here are some standout features of the wheels:
- Depth and Width: The wheels boast an impressive 88mm depth and 25mm width, enhancing aerodynamics while maintaining stability.
- Clincher Style: They are designed to accommodate clincher tires, further simplifying the maintenance process.
- Weight: Constructed from carbon fiber, these wheels are notably lightweight, contributing to easier climbs and faster speeds.
- Rim Brake: Rim brake wheels are becoming far and few between. #savetherimbrake
Performance Analysis
Triathlon Training and Races
Having utilized these wheels extensively in triathlon settings, particularly on the Felt IA16 bike, the performance metrics stand out. I’ve participated in several half Ironman races and sprints under various conditions. Here’s what was observed:
- Braking Performance: The wheels were employed under real braking conditions, especially in hilly areas and during high-speed descents. Achieving speeds upwards of 70 kilometers per hour, the wheels displayed reliable stopping power even as carbon fiber wheels with rim brakes.
- Crosswind Handling: While I did notice some sensitivity to crosswinds compared to other wheel sets like the 50mm deep wheels, with practice, they felt stable and fast, demonstrating that consistent training and awareness can mitigate potential handling issues.
- Aerodynamics: Now I’m no expert, but my bike splits during my training saw an improvement with these deep section wheel profiles. My butt is going to say about a 1-2km/h increase.
Sound and Aesthetics
Let’s not overlook the auditory feedback and appearance of the wheels.
- Sound: Riders often rave about the acoustics of their wheels, with these being no exception. The distinctive “womp womp” sound adds an element of excitement, reminiscent of high-performance disc wheels.
- Looks: In terms of aesthetic appeal, the 88mm carbon wheels elevate the visual profile of the bike, presenting a sleek and professional appearance.
Conclusion and Recommendations
After one year of use, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The Elite Wheels 88mm Clincher Rim Brake Wheels not only meet the demands of intensive triathlon training and racing but do so at an attractive price point. The lightweight design and aerodynamics enhance performance, making them a worthwhile consideration for both enthusiast and competitive riders alike.
Would I Buy Again?
Absolutely! The overall experience with these wheels aligns with high expectations, and based on current performance, I would hands down purchase additional wheelsets from Elite Wheels in the future.
Final Thoughts
In summary, if you’re in the market for a high-performing, aesthetically pleasing set of wheels for your triathlon or road biking needs, look no further than Elite Wheels. With a solid year of tested reliability, great performance under pressure, and an attractive price point, these wheels are certainly worth considering for your next cycling upgrade.
