Multi-day stage races and one day MTB marathons are extremely popular in South Africa, with thousands of riders participating and competing on a weekly basis – from the likes of JoBerg2C, Sani2C and Wines2Whales and similar events, to the one day races in locations like Barberton and Sabie, not to mention the very popular Trailseeker series across Gauteng and the Western Cape.
When riding cross country marathons and stage races, some aspects are more important than others when it comes to your wheels. Reliability should be high on the priority list, as well as light weight – even rider comfort is a concern as many hours are spent in the saddle.
Most stage races and one day marathons do not include big-hit sections like massive jumps and drops, so one doesn’t need to build downhill-strong wheels.
Marathon wheels need to climb and roll well, with minimal resistance and maximum momentum. This is probably why most marathon riders are on 29ers.
What about the wheels themselves? What is an ideal set? Let’s explore a few factors:
Weight
Marathon riders expect their bikes to be light and fast – and wheels make the biggest difference. Lighter wheels accelerate faster and climb better.
Lighter wheels also cost more, and may be more fragile than their heavier and more durable counterparts.
Reliability, or durability
Nothing spoils your day faster than a buckled rim, broken spoke or some other mechanical issue which prevents you from completing your planned day’s riding. Especially after you have paid a premium to take part and have spent countless hours training for the event. We also have to consider the reliability of the hubs. Some need more maintenance than others and if this maintenance is neglected, the hub could fail on a ride.
Your wheels should be tailored to you as a rider. If you’re a heavyweight, you need stronger wheels. If you’re a 65kg racing snake, you can get away with light wheels which may not be as strong.
Ok, let me be specific and make some recommendations.
If you’re a lighter rider, up to about 80kg, try and go for a wheel set weighing less than 1600g.
If you’re a heavier rider, aim for 1750g or heavier (stronger)
Some examples:
Ultralight wheel set – carbon and alloy options
Light carbon rims weighing 300-375g each, 25mm inner width with 28 spokes per wheel, laced with bladed spokes to premium hubs should easily hit 1550g or less, and cost R15-20k
Light alloy rims weighing 365g or so, with a similar hub and spoke spec to the wheelset above, can be had for around R11k.
Stronger wheel set – alloy and carbon options
If you’re between 80 and 120kg and looking for excellent long distance wheels, get some 25-30mm inner width rims and lace these to some great sealed-bearing hubs for a 1800-1900g wheel set.
Carbon options will cost anywhere between R15 and 20k, while excellent alloy options will range between R9 and R11k.
There are many options when it comes to brands of rims and hubs, so get in touch to discuss your needs.
My favourite carbon rims are Chinese Nextie rims at the budget end, or the higher-end rims from South Industries in Cape Town.
When it comes to alloy rims, there are great options available from Spank (my favorite), DT Swiss (most expensive but exceptional quality), WTB, Raceface and others.
Regardless of what you choose, upgrading your wheels on your marathon bike will make a massive difference to your riding experience, and will probably make your bike look amazing too.
I’m looking forward to hearing from you and helping you choose your next set of wheels which will keep you rolling from start to finish and make your marathons and stage races more fun, comfortable and fast!
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