Carbon wheels don’t have a good reputation in the world of enduro mountain biking. Many riders find them too stiff and if you’ve got a harsh riding style, they’re unlikely to survive the rock gardens. Zipp’s 3ZERO MOTO wheels are an exception to this rule. They delivered a convincing performance throughout and offered many positive attributes, but it isn’t all good.
The basic concept of rim design has remained unchanged for ages. To make the rim as stiff as possible, almost all manufacturers rely on a double-wall design. This proven construction method keeps the weight low while making the rim stiff and durable. However, what is an advantage on the one hand can also be the rim’s biggest disadvantage. This double-wall design makes it difficult for the rim to flex and conform to the terrain, which isn’t a problem if you’re riding on the road or on flowing trails, but they lack grip in rougher terrain. Overly stiff wheels also make for a harsher, less comfortable ride. With the 3ZERO MOTO wheels, Zipp have taken a completely new approach.
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From Enduro MTB
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