For the continuation, as I mentioned earlier, we will talk about the wheels from LightCarbon.
View attachment 133430In choosing the wheel type, I hesitated between two models for a long time...
The model
E810-AD938-EN-Race and the model
E810-MC937-EN-Race.
Both models share the same type of spokes (
Sapim Race), the same hubs(
E810), and an
asymmetrical design.
However, one model has deeper rims, while the other has shallower ones (
MC937 = 18mm / AD938 = 28mm).
In theory, a deeper rim is more vertically rigid, translating to better pedaling efficiency but sacrificing comfort. Currently, the trend is for depths between 18 mm and 22 mm for enduro or downhill riding. Personally, aiming for all-mountain riding and wanting to prioritize efficiency, I gave the 28mm depth model a chance. It's possible that in the future, I might regret this choice. We'll see if LightCarbon hasn't made the rim too vertically rigid. In the worst case, a too-rigid rim tends not to absorb vibrations, making the ride more tiring. An overly rigid rim also has less tolerance for riding mistakes. So, if you're like me and you're unsure, favor a lower height if you'll be riding on very rough trails. Conversely, if you want a more rolling bike, go for a higher height.
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Visually, the rims appear to be of very good quality with solid assembly. Similar to the frame, the rims were chosen with a matte finish. However, (I would have liked to show you in a photo, but I couldn't) the paint layer is much thinner on the rims than on the frame. In reality, the rims have more of a satin effect, and you can very slightly discern the carbon weave. It's a style I wholeheartedly accept; I find it very attractive.
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Let's take a moment to also briefly delve into the dimensions of the rim. The advertised width is 32 mm internal and 38 mm external. When taking measurements on the rims, it's observed that the depth (sorry, I can't find the photo) as well as the external width is as specified. However, the internal width falls short by 1mm (the smallest internal measurement I took was 30.4mm).
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The hubs are black anodized aluminum, and the freehub body is made of steel to withstand the torque from the rider combined with the motor. This is undeniably more durable, and all brands have embraced it, such as "DT Swiss" with their "Hybrid" or "Hope Tech" with their latest "Pro 5." However, one will have to see their bike gain weight as steel freehub bodies are definitely heavier (about 100g more), but it's worth it to avoid future issues. Overall, everything seems correct. I haven't detected any play in the bearings; the machining is entirely satisfactory. I could easily assemble the cassette, and all the threads for the disc screws are perfect.
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And what about the spokes ? Of course !
I believe you've understood that I enjoy pushing the reflection quite far.
Regarding the spokes, I've questioned whether there are counterfeit Sapim spokes.
(
Attention, I'm not suggesting that LightCarbon uses counterfeits !)
I own "HOPE" Fortus 30 Pro 4 wheels with Sapim Race spokes, and the LightCarbon wheels are also equipped with Sapim Race spokes ! Comparing the two, we notice that the letter stamping is very similar, but the spokes from "LightCarbon" display a "T," while the "HOPE" wheels show what seems to be a number "6." But it doesn't end there;
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I wanted to push the reflection even further. Currently, I'm developing my own spoke tension meter and calibration bench. Naturally, I have various types of spokes.
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Most of my spokes are ordered from Bike24, and I also have some Sapim spokes from an official distributor! Upon comparisons, it seems challenging to determine whether a spoke is official or not. However, there is one spoke from Bike24 that exhibits a significant flaw (see photos). I can hardly imagine "HOPE" using counterfeit spokes, and consequently, I also believe that "LightCarbon" uses genuine ones. To conclude on the spokes, I would have loved to take the tension of each spoke and provide a detailed report on it. However, my tension meter is not yet completed, so I can't check that aspect yet.
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However, I took the time to check the "warp" of the rims as well as the "hop."
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I'll share a short video with you...
It's excellent craftsmanship !
As for the rim tape, prefer a 32mm width over 30mm, allowing you to cover the entire surface. Regarding tire installation, I managed to mount them without any tools, and I even succeeded in seating the tire sidewalls using a mini pump. For me, it's well-sized, demonstrating that in case of difficulty during a ride, there won't be an issue putting back a sidewall that has come loose. As for air tightness, my tires have been mounted for a week, and I haven't experienced any leaks.
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But then, in the end, do I recommend these rims? If we don't consider the fact that I haven't tried them yet and I don't have durability feedback, I would say: Yes!
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