Reynolds

AM Carbon 26in Wheelset

The dance between low weight and strength is one engineers know all too well. In recent years, we've seen carbon fiber become a key player in wheel design because of its ability to achieve those weight and strength goals. Reynolds has been paramount in pushing carbon's limits in wheel use, and the AM Carbon is the latest result of its efforts.

A full high-modulus carbon-fiber rim, designed specifically for tubeless use ensures the AM Carbon is up to the abuse all-mountain riders put on their gear. The rim's inward leading walls are intended to help with bead locking to prevent tire rotation under hard braking and dreaded air burps. It also minimize the chance of pinch flatting, and enhances the rims overall strength and stiffness.

The rim has a 29.3mm width with a 21mm internal channel. A nice feature of Reynolds wheels is that they use a traditional spoke and nipple design for field service and easy trueing and maintenance. The nipples are alloy for reduced rotational weight and both front and rear spokes are straight pull DT-Swiss Revolution for high tension and total wheel strength.

There are 28 spokes front and rear, and they're laced in a three-cross pattern for resistance to twisting forces from braking or pedaling. The hubs are constructed from aluminum and use cartridge bearings for smooth operation and long term durability. The fast engaging alloy freehub body ensures smooth ratcheting and instant acceleration.

While the wheels should be plenty tough, all Reynolds wheel owners can buy themselves some extra peace of mind by purchasing Reynolds' two-year damage protection plan. It's called RAP, short for Reynolds Assurance Plan. The insurance means you should have little fear that a crash will ruin your wheel investment. Find out more about it on the Reynolds Cycling site.

The Reynolds AM Carbon 26in Wheelset comes with a set of tubeless-ready valves for tubeless tires. Only use plastic tire levers with carbon-fiber rims; Reynolds specifically discourages the use of metal tire levers. The wheels are for disc brakes only and come with mounts for six-bolt rotors. They come with end cap spacers for 142 x 12mm or 135 x 10mm, and 9mm, 15mm, or 20mm axles