Fulcrum Speed 42 DB Wheelset – 28″ | Carbon | 2-Way Fit | Centerlock – 12x100mm | 12x142mm – XDR

New Speed – Simply better in every way

The revised Speed models with 42 and 57 mm profile height represent a development process of over 4,000 hours of testing in the wind tunnel, in the laboratory and on the road. Seven rim versions in numerous configurations were tested to achieve the best performance in terms of aerodynamics, rolling resistance, light weight and handling, without compromising safety.

The uncompromising development work is reflected in all components to create a perfect wheel system. Not only are the rims higher, wider, lighter and more aerodynamic than previous models, also the design of the hubs and spokes has not been left untouched. Even the graphics have been completely redesigned to reflect the brand identity with their minimalist yet refined design.

Technical details of the Fulcrum Speed 42 DB wheelset

• rims: UD full carbon made of FF100 high modulus fibers
• tire type: 2-Way Fit (Clincher, Tubeless compatible)
• construction: Hooked
• wheel size: 28 inch (700C)
• outer width: 29.3 mm / inner width: 23 mm / profile height: 42 mm

• hubs: aluminum, with low flange and “Real Axle Technology”
• brake disc mount: Centerlock / AFS
• bearings: USB™ (ceramic), cup and cone (adjustable)
• installation dimension: 12 x 100 mm / 12 x 142 mm (thru axle)

• spokes: stainless steel (Straightpull; Aero, double butted / 2.0 – 1.6 – 2.0 mm)
• spoke count: 24 (front + rear)
• spoke pattern: Two-to-One™ (2:1)
• nipples: aluminum (self-locking)

• weight: approx. 1410 g (manufacturer’s specification)
• max. system weight: 120 kg

In order to achieve a maximum performance level without compromise, the rims have grown by 2 mm in width, by 4 mm in height and from 19 to 23 mm in cross-section (inner width). Particularly in combination with 28 mm wide tires, the Fulcrum Speed wheels thus offer optimal aerodynamics, lower rolling resistance and noticeably more comfort. Despite the higher rim profile, handling has also demonstrably improved. A perfect level of damping is provided by the composite compound of unidirectional , newly developed specifically for the Speed models. Proper lamination and extremely precise resin control also play their part in providing a superior ride that meets the high performance demands of professional riders.

While the system (Directional Rim-Spoke Coupling) guarantees a stiffer connection between the rim and the spokes, the rim channel with its inner surface polished by process ensures easy mounting and optimal fitment of the tire. The matte surface of the outer rim sides is in turn achieved by technology (Direct Inmold Matt Finish). The rim base manages without holes thanks to the mounting process. On the one hand, this has the advantage that the structure of the carbon fibers is not damaged, and on the other hand, it enables uniform stiffness and higher impact resistance over the entire surface. In addition, this method of construction is the prerequisite for the rim in Tubeless operation without rim tape. For maximum compatibility – that means, the possibility of being able to ride not only with Tubeless but also with conventional clincher and folding tires – provides the system, whose basis is the traditional and safe hook design.

The hubs have been redesigned from the ground up. Compared to the previous generation, the flanges are 40 % smaller and the hub bodies are also 10 % more compact. This provides more stability with less drag without compromising torsional stiffness. The rear hub’s freewheel has also been optimized and is not only lighter and more precise than the previous version, but also more resistant and larger. It owes this to the ratchet system, which now features 6 engagement points more, coming to a total of 36 teeth. Not only the omission of axle adapters, but also the axles themselves benefit the durability. Made of aerospace aluminum, they also improve performance thanks to minimal tolerances. Meanwhile, the conical bearings with the proven system (Ceramic Ultra Smooth Bearings) ensure incomparable smoothness.

The aerodynamic stainless steel flat spokes have been specially designed for Fulcrum Speed wheels. 24 pieces each are used in front and rear wheel according to the concept. This system uses twice as many spokes in the more mechanically stressed areas to counteract energy loss and torsion. For the front wheel, this means 16 spokes on the brake disc side and 8 spokes on the drivetrain side. For the rear wheel, the structure is exactly the opposite. The spokes are perfectly aligned between hub and rim and never touch () to improve performance and extend the life of the wheels.

For the manufacture of its full carbon rims, Fulcrum uses combinations tested in the laboratory with different fiber typologies, which include, in addition to the unidirectional, the well-known 3K version with 90° structure which characterizes the top models. For their manufacture has been developed a special HTG resin (High Transition Grade) that allows unparalleled braking performance at higher temperatures thanks to a glassy transition threshold. The sophistication of the carbon construction is also evident in the processing. Since the mold already takes into account the pre-drilled holes for the nipples, no more finishing or polishing is required to obtain an aesthetically perfect product.

The patented system, which is as simple as it is effective, uses special plastic reinforcements incorporated into the carbon at the seat of the nipples. These not only improve rigidity and durability, but also distribute load on the nipple more evenly over the entire surface and prevent potential galvanic corrosion.

With its “2:1 Two-to-One™ Spoke Ratio” patent, Fulcrum solves a classic problem of cycling. By using twice the number of spokes in the critical areas, it compensates for the loss of energy caused by the rotation of the cassette under full load, which causes the spokes to yield at the freewheel and a corresponding loss of tension in the rim. By practically two spokes take over the task of one, the torsion of the wheel is reduced and the power transmission is much more efficient. The improved balance of spoke tension also benefits the fatigue strength of the rim, hub and spokes.

Fulcrum wheels are appreciated for the extremely high smoothness and reliability of their hubs. These properties are due in no small part to the special USB™ ceramic bearings. In order to reduce energy loss as much as possible and to allow an almost lossless transmission of power to the road, absolutely smooth surfaces and minimal friction are required. With the USB™ deep groove ball bearings, maximum corrosion resistance and reduced weight are added to further increase competition performance. Comparative tests show that bearings with USB™ technology are 50 % smoother than standard bearings.

A magnet and a lot of expertise. With the simple yet ingenious “Mounting Magnet” system, it is possible to realize wheels that do not require any holes on the upper rim flange and can still be spoked by clamping conventional nipples. The nipples are inserted via the valve opening and then “guided” by a magnet to the connection point with the rim. No holes in the rim bed mean a consistently uniform rim with no critical points or fractures. Moreover, with Clincher profiles, no rim tape is required, which in turn has a positive effect on weight. The advantages are numerous: longer durability and greater fatigue strength as well as higher stiffness and acceleration.