Versatile, Durable, Aerodynamic, Lightweight, Innovative
Navigating through life's many winding paths, there's nothing quite like feeling the wind whip past you as you tackle both the beaten track and the asphalt of the city. I've roamed the alleys of Tokyo, wandered the vast terrains of the Moroccan desert, and strolled down the bustling boulevards of Paris. And while the journey is always key, having the right equipment is essential. Enter the new offerings from Fulcrum, the Wind 42 and Wind 57 wheelsets.
The Wind 42 and 57 wheelsets encapsulate the core values of Fulcrum – Form, Function, and, of course, Fulcrum itself. These wheels are an embodiment of innovation, melding style with purpose. Sleek design elements, like the new graphics reflecting the brand's identity, sit side by side with functional features, such as the rim height and internal rim channel improvements.
Let's dive a little deeper. The Wind rims now come taller and wider, sporting heights of 42 and 57 mm. This means better aerodynamics and stability. Yet, Fulcrum has achieved something quite remarkable by managing to reduce their overall weight. The updated design supports wider tires that have increasingly become the choice for road aficionados, thanks to their superior rolling resistance and comfort.
I'm particularly intrigued by the choice of materials and construction techniques. The Wind range utilizes the FF80 mix of carbon fibers, leading to an impressive weight saving, with the Wind 42 tipping the scales at 1,510 grams and the Wind 57 at 1,585 grams. Moreover, the use of stainless steel butted spokes and the Two-to-One™ lacing system ensures these wheels can withstand greater stresses without energy dispersion.
The heart of any wheelset, the hub, in this case, has been forged for greater resistance. With sealed bearings working on an integral axis, the ride promises to be smooth. An upgraded ratchet system in the freewheel now accommodates 36 teeth, available with a range of freewheel bodies, making it an adaptable choice for various setups.
What strikes me most about the Wind 42 and 57 is their sheer versatility. Not limited to the confines of city roads, these wheels have the ruggedness for light off-road adventures too. This means your escapades aren't restricted; cityscapes one day, countryside the next.
Price-wise, the Wind 42 and 57 sit at an attractive range of $1614-$1649, which, given their specs, is quite impressive. And for those who cherish the craftsmanship and heritage, these wheelsets are an ode to Italian engineering and EU-based manufacturing, right from the heart of the road racing world.
In a world teeming with choices, the Wind 42 and 57 wheelsets are a beacon for the modern cyclist. Whether you're a seasoned rider or someone just starting out, these Fulcrum offerings promise a unique riding experience. So, next time you're gearing up for a journey, remember that the destination is important, but so is the ride. And with the right wheels beneath you, the wind is just a companion on an unforgettable adventure.
Pros:
- Versatility: Designed for both road use and light off-road riding, these wheelsets cater to diverse riding environments.
- Performance and Comfort: The balance between performance and comfort has been achieved, ensuring a smooth ride in various conditions.
- Enhanced Design: The rim heights of 42 and 57 mm, coupled with an inner rim channel of 23 mm, ensure better aerodynamics and support for wider tires.
- Weight Reduction: Despite the enhancements, Fulcrum managed to reduce the overall weight, thanks to the new mix of carbon fibers.
- Durable Construction: The use of stainless steel butted spokes and the Two-to-One™ lacing system promise long-term performance and resistance to stress.
- Smooth Operation: The forged hub ensures a smooth ride, while the upgraded ratchet system with 36 teeth promises efficient power transfer.
- Attractive Pricing: Given the range of features and specs, the price range of $1614-$1649 offers good value for money.
- European Craftsmanship: The wheelsets are a product of Italian engineering and EU-based manufacturing, ensuring quality and craftsmanship.
Cons:
- Weight for Some Riders: While the wheelsets are lighter than their predecessors, some riders might still find them heavy compared to other brands in the same category.
- Limited Off-Road Capability: While they are designed for light off-road adventures, they might not be suitable for more rugged terrains.
- Availability: As of the information given, the Wind 57 will only be available from October 2023, which may be a wait for those eager to upgrade immediately.
- Market Saturation: The wheelset market is becoming increasingly crowded, and while the Fulcrum offerings have their merits, they're competing against many other reputable brands.
- Size Variations: Some purists might prefer the traditional 40 and 55 mm versions that these new models are replacing.
$1,614-$1,649
