ENVE

M70 Thirty HV 29in Wheelset

The original M70 Thirty Wheelset took the enduro world by storm with its ability to both blow up climbs and handle screaming, big-drop descents. The ENVE M70 Thirty HV 29in Wheelset builds on that precedent by blowing up the internal rim width from 25 to 31mm to pair perfectly with larger volume tires ranging from 2.3in to 2.5in. The extra tire volume and overall wheel stiffness afforded by these changes make the M70 Thirty HV wheels the ideal set of hoops for teasing out all-mountain versatility from a wagon-wheel chassis.

The M70 Thirty HV model targets the daredevil all-mountain rider with a penchant for gravity speed who still wants the option to climb efficiently when the lifts are closed. Boasting a blend of lightweight speed and big-hit strength, the M70 borrows downhill-specific laminates from its M90 cousin to ensure it's equal to DH abuse. The redesigned, hook-less bead is both lighter and more impact resistant than a standard, hooked bead, and the extra width allows for higher tire volume, increasing cornering stability and putting more rubber on the ground at any given time. These features mean that the HV model weighs a bit more than the standard iteration, but it's still among the lightest wheelset we'd pair with a mid- to high-travel bike.

As with all of its wheels, ENVE utilizes its Smart system to create a strong, stable platform for any conditions. A patented process of molding in spoke holes, nipple seats, and valve stem holes is largely responsible for ENVE's proven reputation of creating wheels boasting one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios in the industry. By routing the carbon fibers around each hole, ENVE maintains continuous fiber integrity, which results in both increased rim rigidity and lower weight. When laced to a hub, this produces higher, more uniform spoke tension than a standard mold-and-drill process.

Additionally, ENVE removes the inner bladder during the molding process, which results in lower weight compared to the many composite manufacturers who leave the inner bladder in the rim once the wheel is complete. While the removal process takes time and involves added expense, it results in a lighter rim and a perfectly tensioned wheel build.

While the rim tells most of the story, two other facts are worth mentioning. First, the wheels are hand built in Utah to exacting standards for the longevity you’d expect out of a class-leading wheel system. Second, these wheels spin on silky smooth DT Swiss 240 hubs with lightning-fast engagement that helps clear rocky cruxes and makes for a wheelset that may very well outlast your next bike.