Tubular Rims

Carbon

Gigantex rims are the best all-round carbon tubular rims we have used. We have stocked the 50mm rims over the last 8 years and new ties directly with the factory mean we will have a constant supply - when they have them, we have them, when they don't we sometimes have to wait a few weeks for stock.

They come in 20h/24h but higher counts can be specially ordered for Cyclo-Cross and disc usage. The tubulars now come in a 23mm wide version for improved aerodynamics and the clinchers measure almost 24mm wide. We stock the 50mm and 60mm rims and sometimes 38mm depending on demand. 

We are now imposing an 85kg limit on all carbon builds. This is not because the rims won't support heavier riders - they will - it is to try and minimise use by heavier riders in the mountains where the demands made on the braking surfaces, tyres, glue etc can be excessive.

We also use ENVE rims, tubulars and clinchers. These are special order only but sometimes we have a stock of them at the start of the year. The 1.25 tubular is very light but only really recommended for sub 80kg riders. The 1.45 and 45 rims are what ENVE call their 'Magic Bullet' - a great alrounder. The Simon Smart designed 3.4SES and 6.7SES sets are particularly nice with Chis King hubs - their is nothing better really.

Note: Carbon rims have been used to great success in professional & amateur racing worldwide but like any component, they are not immune to over exuberant, self-defeating and counterproductive use. If you do not have expert training in braking in the high mountains, consider performance coaching or avoid demanding roads altogether. Excessive braking can wear brake pads quickly and in extreme cases can break down tyres and inner tubes and damage rims. Always take spare brake pads of the correct type with you on your trip.

Alloy

For tubular road applications the Ambrosio Nemesis sprint rim takes some beating. Widely used in the Classics races including Paris-Roubaix - they can be built 32h or 36h and will last many seasons of abuse. If you don't race on cobbles  the F20 Crono rim is a lighter alternative. The F20 rim is a lighter alloy and to get the best out of them you need to be < 80kg however heavier riders have used them - even for cyclocross.

We also use the Velocity Major Tom rims. They are similar in profile to the A23 clincher rim, slightly lighter and with the wider than usual 23mm can work with a bigger tyre more efficiently. Ideal for Cyclocross or all year round use. They can also be built down to about 1350g for the weightweenies.