Chinertown
Chinese Carbon Road Bikes => Road Bike Frames, Wheels & Components => Topic started by: 1Sigma on February 16, 2022, 01:44:05 PM
-
After much humming and hawing, I decided to pulled the trigger on their 2022 Elite DRIVE Wheelset.
You can find it on their AliExpress storefront, but oddly it is not yet advertised on their official B2C website.
Even on the AliExpress site, its a bit buried: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003763694064.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_home.0.0.267ed0edTPNtBU
The glossy marble-like design won't be for everyone, but I dig it.
I got 5 sets, which got me some discount but not a ton - since the shipment is small, I can't have them sent by freight. They are being sent by EMS, in which case I do have a fighting chance at of at least being spared taxes and duties
And, on the plus side, I will receive them faster - probably just before the Spring riding season begins (here in Toronto, good riding doesn't really start until at least all the salt and gravel from winter is swept away...)
Once I get my hands on them, I'll let you all know how they fare!
-
Besides weight,
What is the advantage of these wheels over their entry level wheels?
-
Besides weight,
What is the advantage of these wheels over their entry level wheels?
So, besides the 425g weight savings, here are the "hard" items you are paying extra for:
- Ceramic bearings (2RS dual-seal bearings. Worth mentioning as most Chinese ceramic bearings are those awful single seal ones)
- Comes with carbon aero spokes
- More advanced carbon lay-up (resulting in increased rigidity and lateral stiffness, and said reduced weight)
As with the weight loss, these all add up to a handful of marginal gains - better power transmission, reduced rolling resistance, increased climbing performance and improved aero properties, increased stiffness and better vibration absorption. Also, they look cool.
If you are a moderately healthy cyclist, will you feel these marginal gains? Probably. Will you think you will feel the gains? Absolutely.
When you look at all the folks here who chop seat posts, swap out hardware to titanium, you can see how far some people will go to shave a few grams.
Add to that some non-weight related performance gains for half the price of the closest equivalent (like the Farsports S EVO), and you have a winner!
-
Besides weight,
What is the advantage of these wheels over their entry level wheels?
ALSO they are throwing in some free TShirts! Lol
-
After much humming and hawing, I decided to pulled the trigger on their 2022 Elite DRIVE Wheelset.
You can find it on their AliExpress storefront, but oddly it is not yet advertised on their official B2C website.
Even on the AliExpress site, its a bit buried: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003763694064.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_home.0.0.267ed0edTPNtBU
The glossy marble-like design won't be for everyone, but I dig it.
I got 5 sets, which got me some discount but not a ton - since the shipment is small, I can't have them sent by freight. They are being sent by EMS, in which case I do have a fighting chance at of at least being spared taxes and duties
And, on the plus side, I will receive them faster - probably just before the Spring riding season begins (here in Toronto, good riding doesn't really start until at least all the salt and gravel from winter is swept away...)
Once I get my hands on them, I'll let you all know how they fare!
The marble design looks good. Bonus T?! ;D
-
They are on their way to Canada!
Whats more, Mr. Trace Velo will be reviewing these in an upcoming video. While I'm confident he'll like them, you never know until you know.
-
Damn that's a chunk of change, you selling the other four set's to some friends? Let us know when you get them.
They look interesting.
-
Damn that's a chunk of change, you selling the other four set's to some friends? Let us know when you get them.
They look interesting.
Well, looks like they are coming in tomorrow, duty free (I hope)
I'll do an unboxing for sure.
As I do not have friends, I'm selling the remainder online - either here, or FB Marketplace if you were interested
-
I can definitely be your canadian friend! If you are ever in montreal, we can ride. 8)
-
I can definitely be your canadian friend! If you are ever in montreal, we can ride. 8)
I might have to take you up on that if I am ever in town.
So long as you promise we’re not Everesting Mount Royal…
-
At first I didn't pay much attention to this company because I never heard of them before but now they're really growing on me.
The weights are competitive with the best Chinese carbon spoke wheels on the market from Farsports & Vortex who themselves are not far behind the current market leaders in Lightweight and Mavic. Of course I'm not expecting world-beating stiffness and general performance from Elitewheels but the cost/gram value proposition is undeniable.
Elitewheels as a company are also becoming more credible to me since they're sponsoring the China Glory continental team. Clearly there's some money behind them.
Here's my rudimentary working list of carbon spoke wheelsets (40-50mm range depth, disc tubeless) if anyone's interested:
Cadex
42 / 1327g, 42mm depth, 23mm external
Unaas
50 Supreme / 1344g, 51mm depth, 26.2mm external
Winspace
Lun Hyper / 1455g, 50mm depth, 26mm external
Speeder
SLP / 1400g, 45mm depth, 28mm external
Elitewheels
DRIVE 40D / 1260g, 40mm depth, 28mm external
DRIVE 50D / 1300g, 50mm depth, 28mm external
Magene
EXAR DB45 Pro / 1400g, 45mm depth, 27mm external
Vortex
No Compromise / 1280g, 40mm depth. 26mm external
Farsports
Ventoux S4 EVO / 1295g, 45mm depth, 26mm external
HUNT
Aerodynamicist / 1352g, 44mm depth, 29mm external
Scribe
Elan Wide+ 42 / 1370g, 42mm depth, 30mm external
Elan Wide+ 50 / 1415g, 50mm depth, 30mm external
Mavic
Cosmic Ultimate UST Disc / 1225g, 45mm depth, 27mm external
Lightweight
Obermayer Evo Schwarz Ed / 1230g, 48mm depth, 24mm external
Meilenstein Evo Schwarz Ed / 1380g, 48mm depth, 24mm external
-
At first I didn't pay much attention to this company because I never heard of them before but now they're really growing on me.
The weights are competitive with the best Chinese carbon spoke wheels on the market from Farsports & Vortex who themselves are not far behind the current market leaders in Lightweight and Mavic. Of course I'm not expecting world-beating stiffness and general performance from Elitewheels but the cost/gram value proposition is undeniable.
Elitewheels as a company are also becoming more credible to me since they're sponsoring the China Glory continental team. Clearly there's some money behind them.
Here's my rudimentary working list of carbon spoke wheelsets (40-50mm range depth, disc tubeless) if anyone's interested:
Cadex
42 / 1327g, 42mm depth, 23mm external
Unaas
50 Supreme / 1344g, 51mm depth, 26.2mm external
Winspace
Lun Hyper / 1455g, 50mm depth, 26mm external
Speeder
SLP / 1400g, 45mm depth, 28mm external
Elitewheels
DRIVE 40D / 1260g, 40mm depth, 28mm external
DRIVE 50D / 1300g, 50mm depth, 28mm external
Magene
EXAR DB45 Pro / 1400g, 45mm depth, 27mm external
Vortex
No Compromise / 1280g, 40mm depth. 26mm external
Farsports
Ventoux S4 EVO / 1295g, 45mm depth, 26mm external
HUNT
Aerodynamicist / 1352g, 44mm depth, 29mm external
Scribe
Elan Wide+ 42 / 1370g, 42mm depth, 30mm external
Elan Wide+ 50 / 1415g, 50mm depth, 30mm external
Mavic
Cosmic Ultimate UST Disc / 1225g, 45mm depth, 27mm external
Lightweight
Obermayer Evo Schwarz Ed / 1230g, 48mm depth, 24mm external
Meilenstein Evo Schwarz Ed / 1380g, 48mm depth, 24mm external
Great list! Just needs MRSP. I would say its worth starting it's own thread
-
They arrived!
The set on the box I opened came in at 1,287g
It came with rim tape, levers, and a pair of cycling socks.
Valves were missing though. I've let the factory know
Its hard to capture the finish in a photo, but its somwhere between a leathery? and fibrous look to it. However, it's subtle and hard to catch on some angles. At some angles and lighting, it just looks glossy black. In photos it just appears roughly textured, but in person it clearly looks smooth and slick
The hubs appear well-machined, and are titanium colored.
The hub body though, could benefit from a bite guard
They stickers for storefronts and a couple hideous 3XL polo shirts for the dealer (me)
-
Confirmed valves should have been sent, along with the manual (which i am assuming contains warranty info)
I'm going to get Elite to send those bits along, so I can forward them to whoever buys the wheels.
Also, should have come in their slick new box (attached). I received the older boxes. Neither here nor there, but it would have been nice
-
Thanks sigma1 for hooking me up with a set. I'm very excited to have them. I was planning to build a set of light bicycle with all the weight savings and no nipple holes.
I decided to go with the drive wheels. They look different, sub 1300g disc, Wide enough inner, cheaper.
I have rims for wider tires and for nasty roads weather. So these just need to be good in the 25-32 tire range. These will only be 200g heavier (rotors) than my lightest rims brake wheels (1309g with 50mm) which is super close. These could bring my 168 close to 7.1kg ;D
-
They arrived!
The set on the box I opened came in at 1,287g
That's great!
-
Looks good. Keen to hear how they ride
-
Speaking of Farsports, my Ventoux C4 EVO wheels arrived a couple of days ago. 45mm deep.
Advertised Weight: 1440g
Real World Weight: 1372g
I working on the initial video and will create a separate thread. Just wanted to chime in on the weight.
-
Speaking of Farsports, my Ventoux C4 EVO wheels arrived a couple of days ago. 45mm deep.
Advertised Weight: 1440g
Real World Weight: 1372g
I working on the initial video and will create a separate thread. Just wanted to chime in on the weight.
That is an insane variance! In your favour, but still..
-
i found a review of the wheels here, very interesting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oFiX4Hl1Oc
-
From the official facebook page
"Thanks to all the riders, we've done our first optimisation of the DRIVE wheels. The optimizations are mainly for the front hub, we have improved some details to better fit the high tension carbon spokes.
Another good news is that spare spokes will be added to the DRIVE package from this month.
All DRIVE wheels will ship with rim tape and valves installed."
-
All DRIVE wheels will ship with rim tape and valves installed."
Nice to see. Just ordered a pair with the black decals thanks to Sigma!
-
i found a review of the wheels here, very interesting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oFiX4Hl1Oc
Everyone is putting out teaser reviews. Waiting for an in-depth review. I've seen them on Trace Velo's bike the last couple videos. I think (based on nothing) that he will be first.
Bracing for Hambini's review if he does one. The DRIVE comes with hybrid ceramic bearings which he just hates.
Also, just for full disclosure for all the good folks here at Chinertown, what started as a bulk purchase from Elite turned into a (fledgling) distributor relationship.
So, in respect of the integrity of this forum I'll try to remain as objective as possible, but I clearly have a bias now.
With that in mind...I freaking love the DRIVE wheels. Moving from old box section alloys with pitted cup/cone bearings to rhe Elite BWT was a quantum leap in performance.
Moving to the DRIVE from the BWT feels like another giant leap for me. Wish I had the black decals though.
-
I would be curious to know how many components of Elite's Drive wheels are shared with Winspace.
-
I would be curious to know how many components of Elite's Drive wheels are shared with Winspace.
Without doing a deep dive:
- Rims and hubs are manufactured in-house (specifically by Elite's their parent company)
- Bearings sourced from RKF (I think)
- Spokes are externally sourced. The manufacturer holds a patent for screw bushing carbon spokes (as opposed to bonded carbon spokes) <- i can see this being a commonly shared component
-
Lol talk about good timing...
EDIT: I'm not against Elite wheels. I'm gonna see if I can grab a pair for review LoL
https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4 (https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4)
-
Lol talk about good timing...
EDIT: I'm not against Elite wheels. I'm gonna see if I can grab a pair for review LoL
This is guy is so bad at so many things he does in the clip, the tools he uses, that it hurts to watch.
The good thing is that only 350 people lost their time with it ;D
-
Lol talk about good timing...
EDIT: I'm not against Elite wheels. I'm gonna see if I can grab a pair for review LoL
https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4 (https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4)
Before I watch this, I am going to make a prediction that this is a first look video, and that it will end with a hook to watch the full review in x weeks time.
Also, I am foreseeing a discount code for 15%...
See you in 5...
-
Before I watch this, I am going to make a prediction that this is a first look video, and that it will end with a hook to watch the full review in x weeks time.
Also, I am foreseeing a discount code for 15%...
See you in 5...
You are correct.
-
You are correct.
Ahhh Charles! Can't say I am not a little disappointed with his first impressions.
Nothing particularly substantive in his criticisms at least - just minor irritations, which are more reflects Elites developing Customer Experience model.
But seriously, didn't install rim tape? Also, does the man not own a pair of cone spanners? (Don't answer this, because it will make me feel old...)
Also, I think Elite asked him to grease the hubs specifically because he is an influencer and don't want to leave anything to chance (although if that is the case, they should've done that before they shipped...)
We'll see what he says, but similar to my relationship with Elite, one cannot help but wonder if his objectivity is clouded by his relationship with Winspace.
Not to say the Hypers aren't good. They do also rock
-
That was pretty hard to watch.
Having tried/tested several frames and wheels now, I do my best to be transparent and neutral.
That video was not the case...
-
Am i going crazy, or the video is now unlisted?
-
Am i going crazy, or the video is now unlisted?
Haha yup, but I still have the link though :P
Knowing how fickle YouTuber content creators can be, he probably unlisted the video due to the comment section pushback. I mentioned Elite Wheels are now shipped with rim tape installed and he didn't seem to be super thrilled with my comment LoL
-
I'm another one waiting for the reviews to pop up before buying.
Interestingly elite agreed to sell of wheel depths, eg. 40 front/50 rear.... Something that winspace don't offer, but I'm very keen on. If winspace did 38/50 depth packages I would have purchased some time ago.
An Elite email today told me that dark coloured decals will be available from June, and it is an option to specify silver or black hubs.
-
Thinking about ordering a set of these as well. They told me I can get it in black decals or no decals but they don’t have pictures of these options ::)
If anyone chose this look please post here. Like to see the how they look.
-
Thinking about ordering a set of these as well. They told me I can get it in black decals or no decals but they don’t have pictures of these options ::)
If anyone chose this look please post here. Like to see the how they look.
I've got some with black decals being shipped. I'll snap a picture when they arrive.
-
Trace velo has released his review : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amZVEl8li1I&ab_channel=TraceVelo
-
I am currently speaking with Elitewheels regarding the hub issue, as we have someone on the forum (including myself) using the 1st generation design.
This customer has reported some play. I have not yet, but will keep an eye on it.
It appears their proposed initial solution is to replace the bearings with ones with a slightly tighter tolerance (i.e. slightly bigger)
This has raised further questions from my end, such as:
1) This doesn't correct the underlying issue (hub deformation). Does this mean after the initial stretch, that it can be considered in a "settled" position and should not deform more?
2) Presumably, the stretch will result in slightly lower drive-side spoke tension. Is the loss of tension within tolerances, or will they need to be tightened up again?
3) will tightening them up simply result in further deformation?
4) how do they know the new bearings will fit? Is the deformation across wheelsets uniform?
I am a self-taught mechanic and certainly not an engineer or metallurgist, so I only come armed with assumptions and no answers.
Will keep everyone posted.
-
My (1st Gen) wheelset "should" arrive this afternoon. Will inspect them this weekend...
-
Elite Drive 45
1. Currently the 45mm depth isn't listed (yet) on Elite's website. However, if you are interested in this particular depth versus the 40 or 50, I would ask that you please reach out to member 1Sigma rather than via Elite. A few reasons why I'm requesting this, but mainly to support a fellow forum member :D
2. Real world weight: 1288g - Build quality, performance, and customer experience aside...these about 85g lighter than FarSports Ventoux C4 (45mm depth) and about 165g lighter than Winspace's Hyper 50. The Hypers are 5mm deeper of course.
3. 21mm internal, 28mm external - I'm using a brand new set of Conti GP5000s 25c tires along with Vittoria latex innertubes. With this combo the rims are just ever so slightly wider than the tires, which aerodynamically speaking is optimal.
4. Hub/Free Hub - Yes they are similar to Winspace but not 100% identical. And they are a bit louder and more "mechanical" sounding. Whatever that means. So far no hub wobbles to report, as these are 1st gen wheels, but I only did 35mi/56km today.
5. First ride impressions - These wheels paired with my VB-177 makes the bike feel like a surgical knife. Super light, nimble, and precise. Takes my bike down to about 7.2kg without pedals or cages. Definitely a fantastic setup for crit racing on a technical circuit where you're constantly braking and accelerating. LATEX (or tubeless) is the WAY TO GO. 100%. While I'm sure there are tangible watts being saved versus butyl inner tubes, the ride quality and road dampening is absolutely night and day. I'm running around 82-85psi.
I'll report back once my review video is finished. So far nothing but high remarks from me...
-
Here they are with black decals. Emailed elitewheels and asked for pictures.
(https://i.imgur.com/C1BjydX.png)
-
Elite Drive 45
1. Currently the 45mm depth isn't listed (yet) on Elite's website. However, if you are interested in this particular depth versus the 40 or 50, I would ask that you please reach out to member 1Sigma rather than via Elite. A few reasons why I'm requesting this, but mainly to support a fellow forum member :D
2. Real world weight: 1288g - Build quality, performance, and customer experience aside...these about 85g lighter than FarSports Ventoux C4 (45mm depth) and about 165g lighter than Winspace's Hyper 50. The Hypers are 5mm deeper of course.
3. 21mm internal, 28mm external - I'm using a brand new set of Conti GP5000s 25c tires along with Vittoria latex innertubes. With this combo the rims are just ever so slightly wider than the tires, which aerodynamically speaking is optimal.
4. Hub/Free Hub - Yes they are similar to Winspace but not 100% identical. And they are a bit louder and more "mechanical" sounding. Whatever that means. So far no hub wobbles to report, as these are 1st gen wheels, but I only did 35mi/56km today.
5. First ride impressions - These wheels paired with my VB-177 makes the bike feel like a surgical knife. Super light, nimble, and precise. Takes my bike down to about 7.2kg without pedals or cages. Definitely a fantastic setup for crit racing on a technical circuit where you're constantly braking and accelerating. LATEX (or tubeless) is the WAY TO GO. 100%. While I'm sure there are tangible watts being saved versus butyl inner tubes, the ride quality and road dampening is absolutely night and day. I'm running around 82-85psi.
I'll report back once my review video is finished. So far nothing but high remarks from me...
Really nice! Amazing weight, just hope they will hold up, saw trace velos video...
-
BTW, use TRACE15 for 15% discount
-
I went ahead and pulled the trigger on a 50D set of wheels. I chose to get them with no decal which adds 12-15 days to actually make them. I'll post a pic when I see them before they ship.
-
I am currently speaking with Elitewheels regarding the hub issue, as we have someone on the forum (including myself) using the 1st generation design.
This customer has reported some play. I have not yet, but will keep an eye on it.
It appears their proposed initial solution is to replace the bearings with ones with a slightly tighter tolerance (i.e. slightly bigger)
This has raised further questions from my end, such as:
1) This doesn't correct the underlying issue (hub deformation). Does this mean after the initial stretch, that it can be considered in a "settled" position and should not deform more?
2) Presumably, the stretch will result in slightly lower drive-side spoke tension. Is the loss of tension within tolerances, or will they need to be tightened up again?
3) will tightening them up simply result in further deformation?
4) how do they know the new bearings will fit? Is the deformation across wheelsets uniform?
I am a self-taught mechanic and certainly not an engineer or metallurgist, so I only come armed with assumptions and no answers.
Will keep everyone posted.
So, I heard back from Elitewheels regarding the 1st gen models. Anyone reading this and thinking of buying these wheels will have the redesigned hub.
They’ve confirmed that typical strain (deformation) due to stress is between 20 to 60 microns within the first 2000km.
After the initial strain, the stress becomes insufficient to produce further strain. Meaning the hubs should be stable after this period.
20 to 60 microns of deformation is within the safety tolerance of the alloy (meaning well below the tensile strength). For reference, 60 microns is about the width of a human hair.
So, while being a nuisance, they assured me that the hubs are structurally sound.
The hubs are manufacture to 25.98mm, to accommodate a 26mm bearing once laced up.
After being strained, they are between 26.02 to 26.04mm.
To rectify this, they has S&S make a run of bearings made that are 26.02mm. Which they say removes the play in almost every case. But even though it is only 20 microns larger, it still makes it an exotic bearing which has to be obtained from Elite.
At this point they are providing them for free. I didn’t ask if there was a cost for owners looking to replace the bearing as part of routine maintenance.
So far, I haven’t noticed the wiggle myself *knock on wood* but I know others have.
I feel comfortable riding the wheels, so I’ll keep them on. Kind of hoping the deformation will occur for me, so I can try the fix for myself.
-
Wow thanks for the update. And kudos to them for the honesty and fixing things.
I didn't know hubs could deform under spokes load.
They are learning things DT-Swiss, Hope, even Novatec and others probably know already.
The special bearings fix isn't great for the long run.
-
Wow thanks for the update. And kudos to them for the honesty and fixing things.
I didn't know hubs could deform under spokes load.
They are learning things DT-Swiss, Hope, even Novatec and others probably know already.
The special bearings fix isn't great for the long run.
I imagine it is a three-fold result of:
1) engineering the hub to chase grams
-all things being equal, less material = less robust
2) the higher tension applied to carbon spokes
- all things being equal greater stress = greater strain
3) the non-ductile nature of carbon filament
- all things being equal, the force transferred to the hub will be lower with a ductile material such as steel, as opposed to carbon.
If one of the above didn't exist, the deformation would not occurred.
Of course, total armchair engineer on this one.
-
Hambini has kinda reviewed the wheels (https://youtu.be/OoCMpuJZokc/), depending on how you view Hambini's opinion it's somewhat interesting. Unfortunately, when comparing against Winspace, he is comparing different depths, so you can't tell if the wheel design or wheel depth drives the differences.
Good news is that the quality seems to be on a par with the other similar brands.
-
Hambini has kinda reviewed the wheels (https://youtu.be/OoCMpuJZokc/), depending on how you view Hambini's opinion it's somewhat interesting. Unfortunately, when comparing against Winspace, he is comparing different depths, so you can't tell if the wheel design or wheel depth drives the differences.
Good news is that the quality seems to be on a par with the other similar brands.
I am actually very surprised how merciful was about the bearings, given his stance on hybrid ceramics.
Or maybe he just hate companies charging a ransom for ceramics…
-
Peak Torque (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY1Z-4PxDEY&t=1s/) has also posted his review on youtube.
Again, doesn't say too much that others haven't. Wheels seem sound. If you're on the fence between Winspace and Elite then there doesn't seem to be much difference, other than Winspace have had better social media publicity for longer. Elite seem to have been making wheels just as long, but less social media marketing until how (from what I see), although there is evidence in the hub revisions that Elite may still be ironing out minor wrinkles with this new Drive model.
-
Anyone know where they saved weight in the more expensive lightweight version? Presumably it's a difference in the carbon rim which is how other manufacturers like Light Bicycle differentiate but just a guess
-
Anyone know where they saved weight in the more expensive lightweight version? Presumably it's a difference in the carbon rim which is how other manufacturers like Light Bicycle differentiate but just a guess
I can ask if you’d like
-
I can ask if you’d like
That would be great, thanks.
-
Does this help any?
-
That would be great, thanks.
The Ultralight uses less T700, which accounts for the weight loss.
The Team version is a bit more stable and durable.
The ultralight version has lower rotational inertia, better acceleration and climbing.
Also, just got the revised dealer sheet. The 45mm are out, but in its place will be 65mm rims.
These will only be available in disc though it seems. Looks like these are dealer-only options at the moment (or maybe if you special request from Elite)
-
My Elite Wheels Drive 45D wheel review is live ;D
YouTube Title: ELITEWHEELS Drive 45D Wheelset Review - They Nailed It
https://youtu.be/-Sa41BpUFj8 (https://youtu.be/-Sa41BpUFj8)
-
Just received my drive 50s with Black decals and they gave me the updated hub as well. They look fantastic, excited to have them on the SEKA build once that frame arrives.
-
50Vs arrived today.
All I gotta say is goddamn UPS..
-
Any of you 2 in US? Just curious how long it took for them to arrive. Elite sent me my UPS tracking number on 7/4 but hasn't been scanned in yet so I assume it's still on a boat somewhere.
-
Any of you 2 in US? Just curious how long it took for them to arrive. Elite sent me my UPS tracking number on 7/4 but hasn't been scanned in yet so I assume it's still on a boat somewhere.
Yep I'm in the US and it took about 3 weeks after getting the tracking. It went from "label created" to arriving in 2 days after it got scanned. Guessing they came via boat.
-
Yep I'm in the US and it took about 3 weeks after getting the tracking. It went from "label created" to arriving in 2 days after it got scanned. Guessing they came via boat.
Correct. They use a freight forwarder to get it to US/Canada.
UPS picks it up after it clears customs.
Takes a bit longer, but doesn’t come with the nasty UPS brokerage fees and duties.
-
I received my Elitewheels DRIVE 45D on Thursday and have them gone through 100km on Saturday, 23rd July.
First was the wheelset unboxing in my YouTube video titled "EliteWheels DRIVE 45D Wheelset - First Impressions" / youtu.be/lglcGHaKpCo
(https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/lglcGHaKpCo/mq3.jpg?sqp=CIDQ-JYG&rs=AOn4CLA02Bm6NIw1LaRX68TyMA8LqQDfRw)
I simply loved the handling characteristics especially on the straightline. How I think about them?
So I made a First Ride clip and let you know about it in another YouTube video titled "EliteWheels DRIVE 45D - My First Ride". / youtu.be/rObtK6VQ3A4
(https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/rObtK6VQ3A4/hqdefault.jpg?v=62dde086&sqp=CNTN-JYG&rs=AOn4CLAmJ9FoaqzUwQxvFhHo-_MSS8_I-A)
-
I got my wheels today. No decals with black hubs. They look good. But I have a question... They are super loud and was going to put some grease in the free hub to maybe help dampen the noise before putting them on the bike... So, how do you take this free hub body off? I don't want to damage it so just want to make sure I'm doing it right.
-
I got my wheels today. No decals with black hubs. They look good. But I have a question... They are super loud and was going to put some grease in the free hub to maybe help dampen the noise before putting them on the bike... So, how do you take this free hub body off? I don't want to damage it so just want to make sure I'm doing it right.
1) pull the cap off the non-drive axle. This should come off by hand.
this will expose the machined axle with a notch in it
2) hold the side of a cone spanner or butter knife or something in the notch to hold it still
3) use a 17mm wrench/cone spanner to unscrew the cap on the drive side
4) pull off the hub body. You should be able to do this by hand
-
Man, was mine really on there tight. I had to take it to a my LBS and they even had a hell of a time unscrewing the end cap thingy. They finally got it. Watch out though, those notches on the other end where you use "butter knife" or whatever to hold it will chip away if you aren't careful then it will even be harder to hold it.
I emailed EliteWheels if they had a video on how to do this & wow did they come through. I had this video waiting for me in my email about 24 hours later.
-
Man, was mine really on there tight. I had to take it to a my LBS and they even had a hell of a time unscrewing the end cap thingy. They finally got it. Watch out though, those notches on the other end where you use "butter knife" or whatever to hold it will chip away if you aren't careful then it will even be harder to hold it.
I emailed EliteWheels if they had a video on how to do this & wow did they come through. I had this video waiting for me in my email about 24 hours later.
I’m glad you were able to get it off, and that Elite was able to send you some super support!
I wonder who tightened it so much! I’ve done several Shimano to XDR hub body swaps, and each time it was tightened to just over finger tight.
-
Got my hands on a pair of the newly released Elite Drive 65D wheels. Review coming soon. Yes I expect everyone to ask me if they're better (or worse) than the Hyper 65s. What I can tell you right now is: "It depends..."
Plus I have a pair of the new Lun Hyper D67 wheels coming soon which should be a better comparison than the current Hyper 65s, since they also have 21mm internal
-
These are one of the wheel sets that I have been looking at for my first build. But I don't know if I should look at their other wheels or what fora more durable wheelset.
-
These are one of the wheel sets that I have been looking at for my first build. But I don't know if I should look at their other wheels or what fora more durable wheelset.
Provided you buy a wheelset fit for your cycling discipline you won’t need to worry about durability.
At least not relative to mainstream brands.
I do sell these wheels, so in the interest of avoiding bias, in addition to Elitewheels, you can’t go wrong with winspace or Farsports either.
Wheelsets are one of the few places where you don’t need to compromise by buying Chinese. IMO, it is one areas where China can deliver a better product for less. There are other areas where product is “as-good-as” and many areas where its “80% performance at 20% of the price”
-
Provided you buy a wheelset fit for your cycling discipline you won’t need to worry about durability.
At least not relative to mainstream brands.
I meant with in the brand of elitewheels. I just meant maybe not the drives.
-
I have heard only positive for the most basic elite wheels. I forgot the name of the exact model, but they are great.
-
I meant with in the brand of elitewheels. I just meant maybe not the drives.
Gotcha.
Then perhaps if you are looking to keep initial cost down, but want a durable wheel you may want to get the ENT.
Steel spokes, and a system weight of 125kg/275lbs I think (I’d confirm with Elite…)
-
Gotcha.
Then perhaps if you are looking to keep initial cost down, but want a durable wheel you may want to get the ENT.
Steel spokes, and a system weight of 125kg/275lbs I think (I’d confirm with Elite…)
They look like all of their wheels are rated for 125kg/275lbs
-
They look like all of their wheels are rated for 125kg/275lbs
Yep, more or less. I think some are 130kg, but not sure.
Just recommended the ENT as it looks like you are trying to keep costs down on this build
-
Yep, more or less. I think some are 130kg, but not sure.
Just recommended the ENT as it looks like you are trying to keep costs down on this build
It's more that I am newbie. And I am looking around trying to plan out a more serious bike. But as newbie I don't need crazy light build. But I also would like a quality bike. I want a superb bike not necessarily a top of the line super bike.
-
It's more that I am newbie. And I am looking around trying to plan out a more serious bike. But as newbie I don't need crazy light build. But I also would like a quality bike. I want a superb bike not necessarily a top of the line super bike.
For the record, I don’t think I ever said you were new. And there is certainly nothing newbie about investing in carbon wheels - even entry level ones.
But is the intent is to future-proof yourself for a more serious build, just spring for the Drives, Hypers, or Ventouxs.
You may not want to get a superbike wheel, but if you can get that performance for a fraction of the price there is no reason not to.
Quality, superb wheels - the lot of them. And you’ll be able to carry them over to a new bike without feeling the need to upgrade again.
The Drives and Hypers will set you back alright $1200 USD, but there is always some discount floating around from YouTubers such as Patrick Lino. Elite has a $200 off sale at the moment.
The Ventouxs do cost a bit more, but still less than half of a mainstream comparable.
When it comes to Chinese parts, wheelsets are currently one of the few where you can have your cake and eat it too
-
I doubt you can measure performance improvements between the elite ENT and the Elite drive wheelsets. If youvare building a bike, I don't think paying the premium for drive/hyper is worth it. Marginal gains at best.
-
For the record, I don’t think I ever said you were new. And there is certainly nothing newbie about investing in carbon wheels - even entry level ones.
But is the intent is to future-proof yourself for a more serious build, just spring for the Drives, Hypers, or Ventouxs.
You may not want to get a superbike wheel, but if you can get that performance for a fraction of the price there is no reason not to.
Quality, superb wheels - the lot of them. And you’ll be able to carry them over to a new bike without feeling the need to upgrade again.
The Drives and Hypers will set you back alright $1200 USD, but there is always some discount floating around from YouTubers such as Patrick Lino. Elite has a $200 off sale at the moment.
The Ventouxs do cost a bit more, but still less than half of a mainstream comparable.
When it comes to Chinese parts, wheelsets are currently one of the few where you can have your cake and eat it too
I am saying I am a newbie. But a chinese carbon "super" bike is the same as name brand entry level. Thats a no brainer. But can I buy ent wheels before I get a buy my frame. Seems like putting the kart before the horse.
;D ;D ;D
-
I doubt you can measure performance improvements between the elite ENT and the Elite drive wheelsets. If youvare building a bike, I don't think paying the premium for drive/hyper is worth it. Marginal gains at best.
Yes and no, right?
Are they marginal gains? Yes, but noticeably so.
Is it worth it? Depends on the rider. Some, people drop $700 on an OSPW full well knowing they are doing for aesthetics.
I am sure what I am going to say will contradict something else I’ve said, but marginal gains matter because they aggregate. I have no problem with marginal gains - that’s all there really is left in cycling short of some sort of technological revolution. I just have a problem when a marginal gain, in isolation, is marketed as a transformative experience.
If they didn’t, there would be no point in moving beyond alloy frames and rims. Heck, even steel for that matter.
All that being said, I also agree that an entry level carbon wheel from a reputable company will still be adequate for everything up to and including amateur competitive riders
-
I am saying I am a newbie. But a chinese carbon "super" bike is the same as name brand entry level. Thats a no brainer. But can I buy ent wheels before I get a buy my frame. Seems like putting the kart before the horse.
;D ;D ;D
I mean, so long as you know what type of riding you plan to do (if you are in FL, I am guessing a lot of flat…), you know the general geometry you want, and whether you want disc or rim, there is no issue getting the cart before the horse.
Of course, if you are unsure if you are going gravel, road, MTB. Then yes. I would agree
-
As 1Sigma highlighted, marginal gains absolutely matter in totality.
I see lot of folks struggle to understand this concept, based on the numerous messages I receive daily asking me if Brand A is better than Brand B. We can fool ourselves all we want, but the reality is customers care about weight and performance regardless of budget. In a lot of cases...it's the budget conscience customers who more unforgiving about those details than the name brand folks.
Proper bike fit, position on the bike, properly fitting cycling kit, aero socks, clean drivetrain, decent bottom bracket, decent set of carbon wheels. You could easily be saving like 30 watts.
-
I mean, so long as you know what type of riding you plan to do (if you are in FL, I am guessing a lot of flat…), you know the general geometry you want, and whether you want disc or rim, there is no issue getting the cart before the horse.
Of course, if you are unsure if you are going gravel, road, MTB. Then yes. I would agree
Los Angeles here... So I have flats or hills or mountains if I so choose.. And I am 100% in road bikes with disc brakes. 11 shimono. But I dont know if 6 bolt or center lock is better.
-
Hello Guys,
Can anyone show me how it looks 28mm tyres on 50D wheels especially en face (vittoria) Most pics at google are with 25mm
I have big dillema what to choose. G45 or D50
Did anyone test G45 and compare how it look stiffnes and comfort these set G45 vs D50?
-
Hello Guys,
Can anyone show me how it looks 28mm tyres on 50D wheels especially en face (vittoria) Most pics at google are with 25mm
I have big dillema what to choose. G45 or D50
Did anyone test G45 and compare how it look stiffnes and comfort these set G45 vs D50?
I don't think many people have been willing to take on the G45s for review, or I expect Elite to send them out for review.
On the face of it they look quite compelling, but brittle carbon spokes for offroad are not necessarily a great idea ...
-
I really felt giving gc performance the g45 was a huge waste. Giving him rims to pretend to use in a parking lot with tires that he thought were fine rubbing on his frame. If I believed he did gravel I wouldn't call this out.
I asked if I could use my d45 rims for a gravel race and was advised not to do so. I'm pretty little and thought they be fine so I had to ask. I never tried them on gravel simply because I do love them on my road rides.
I ride gravel 1-2 times a week. I have used 30mm and 50mm rims for gravel. This usually goes with pace and tire size. Higher speed, smaller tire, easier gravel =50 mm rims. Lower speed, larger tire, harder gravel = 30mm rims.
I've asked elsewhere on another bike forum but no one answered. If you have larger tires and 45mm rims isn't that going to be give you a sidewall closer to a 65mm+? So if you run 30mm rims and 43mm tires you'd still be similar sidewall to a 50mm and 28mm tire. Right? Or is it even more because the circumference?
-
Hello Guys,
Can anyone show me how it looks 28mm tyres on 50D wheels especially en face (vittoria) Most pics at google are with 25mm
I have big dillema what to choose. G45 or D50
Did anyone test G45 and compare how it look stiffnes and comfort these set G45 vs D50?
not that this entirely helps but i run vittoria corsa control in both 25mm and 28mm on the same 18.5mm internal rim with (they are 65 deep but that is immaterial). the 25mm tires inflate to 27.5mm wide. the 28's are much closer to spec and inflate to ~28.6mm wide. long story short, the 28's are not obviously wider in my experience than the 25's which is also probably why their weights are so similar.
internal width on the D50 is 21mm and the G45 is 24mm. both of those will cause the tires to inflate wider than my rims are capable of but visually, if you have seen vittoria 25mm tires on D50 for example, they shouldn't look much different if those were 28mm.
-
Hello Guys,
Can anyone show me how it looks 28mm tyres on 50D wheels especially en face (vittoria) Most pics at google are with 25mm
I have big dillema what to choose. G45 or D50
Did anyone test G45 and compare how it look stiffnes and comfort these set G45 vs D50?
I have a bike running 28s on 45D, 21mm internal and another running 28s on the 50V (19mm internal)
In both cases, inflated to about 70-75 psi, the tire width is pretty much in line with the rim width.
I’ll see if I can send you some pics
-
That would be great if you can make pics up the front.
Many producers start using wider rims.
I had experience with 30mm external rim and it looks good with Vittoria.
I read few positive revies about brand parocurs with their series ronde. Their front rims are really wide 32mm. But they rims are much heavier than Drive.
-
I don't think many people have been willing to take on the G45s for review, or I expect Elite to send them out for review.
On the face of it they look quite compelling, but brittle carbon spokes for offroad are not necessarily a great idea ...
I know what you mean and probably you have right, but I would like to use G45 as a road wheels on tarmac, sometimes on flat smooth gravel paths.
I asked Elite do they make these wheels with D50 hubs but they told it's not possible.
-
That is probably true. The nipples holes are offset and angle drilled for the spokes. The hubs also look milled to an angle that matches. I'd have the guess the hoops aren't the same shape or have a different layout in the arch area for support of nipples and spokes.
-
A quick report on my experience withe the Elitewheels Drive 40D.
- received mid of June
- since then only around 500km
- using them tubeless with the Vittoria Corsa Speed G2.0 TLR 25mm
In general the wheels feel great. Very responsive and stiff. I enjoy riding them. However for comparision I do not have another carbon wheel set, only my main aluminium training wheel set (which is a bit less then 300g heavier).
Now to two problems:
(1) I had quite some problems to get them working tubeless, always lost at least a bit of air. Air leaked out through the small hole on the side of the rim. Investigating further, the pre-installed rim tape did not 100% cover all of the spoke holes. Sealant was below the rim tape at some of the spoke holes and filling them. I exchanged the rim tape with 23mm wide tape, which is 1-2mm wider then the original one. Since then, no problems any more.
(2) During inspection of the rear wheel, I noticed that the ball bearings are already no longer running smoth. Affected is one or both of the bearings of the free wheel hub. Also the free wheel hub showing already some wear from the cassette, I decided to order another free wheel hub. Not quite cheap, did cost me around 80€ including shipping and customs duties. Good quality bearings would have been about 30-40€. So next time, if necessary, I will just replace the bearings...
Attached a picture of the old free hub where one can see the wear from the cassette.
-
It is not uncommon to see some wear of the freehub by the cassette, nothing to worry about at the current state from the little blurry picture.
-
A quick report on my experience withe the Elitewheels Drive 40D.
- received mid of June
- since then only around 500km
- using them tubeless with the Vittoria Corsa Speed G2.0 TLR 25mm
In general the wheels feel great. Very responsive and stiff. I enjoy riding them. However for comparision I do not have another carbon wheel set, only my main aluminium training wheel set (which is a bit less then 300g heavier).
Now to two problems:
(1) I had quite some problems to get them working tubeless, always lost at least a bit of air. Air leaked out through the small hole on the side of the rim. Investigating further, the pre-installed rim tape did not 100% cover all of the spoke holes. Sealant was below the rim tape at some of the spoke holes and filling them. I exchanged the rim tape with 23mm wide tape, which is 1-2mm wider then the original one. Since then, no problems any more.
(2) During inspection of the rear wheel, I noticed that the ball bearings are already no longer running smoth. Affected is one or both of the bearings of the free wheel hub. Also the free wheel hub showing already some wear from the cassette, I decided to order another free wheel hub. Not quite cheap, did cost me around 80€ including shipping and customs duties. Good quality bearings would have been about 30-40€. So next time, if necessary, I will just replace the bearings...
Attached a picture of the old free hub where one can see the wear from the cassette.
1) that’s a shame. Air shouldn’t escape from factory-installed tape. Sorry to hear that that happened to you.
2) have you contacted Elite about the bearings? Under no circumstances should there be problems with the bearings after only 500km. If you have a bum bearing for some reason, it should be covered under warranty.
3)yea, those bite marks are perfectly normal for an alloy freehub without a bite guard
-
I have a bike running 28s on 45D, 21mm internal and another running 28s on the 50V (19mm internal)
In both cases, inflated to about 70-75 psi, the tire width is pretty much in line with the rim width.
I’ll see if I can send you some pics
Hi,
Did you find or make some pics for me? 8)
-
1) that’s a shame. Air shouldn’t escape from factory-installed tape. Sorry to hear that that happened to you.
2) have you contacted Elite about the bearings? Under no circumstances should there be problems with the bearings after only 500km. If you have a bum bearing for some reason, it should be covered under warranty.
3)yea, those bite marks are perfectly normal for an alloy freehub without a bite guard
ad 1) I think the pre-installed tape is just too narrow. Also with 23mm one has to be careful to center the rim tape in order to have a good overlap of the asymetric spoke holes.
ad 2) Contacted yes and also explained what happened. But I did not insist on some kind of warranty.
ad 3) True - never before removed a cassette after less than 500km and therefore was somehow surprised that it already looks most of my other free hubs...
-
Hi,
Did you find or make some pics for me? 8)
Sorry! Totally forgot!
One set of photos is the Drive 45mm disc (not the gravel version) with 28mm Schwalbe Pro One TLE (tubeless) @ 70PSI. Please excuse my janky calipers.
Tire width = 29.5mm
Rim width = 28.5mm
The other is the Drive 50mm rim. Tire is 28mm Michelin Power Road Tubeless @ 70PSI
The rim version of the wheels is slightly wider on account of the brake track
Tire width = just shy of 30mm
Rim width = Just shy of 30mm
-
Sorry! Totally forgot!
Thank you very much!!!
What caliper and disc rotor do you have.
I am looking for an alternative for my 105 caliper and old type xtr rotor.
-
On the Elite wheels, is there a steel free gun body available?
-
Thank you very much!!!
What caliper and disc rotor do you have.
I am looking for an alternative for my 105 caliper and old type xtr rotor.
I am using the JuinTech GT. It’s cable actuated hydraulic.
The rotors are just IIIPRO. They sell a number of designs, 6 bolt and center lock. Floating, finned, and Ultralight. Nothing too fancy, but I’ve found them inexpensive and reliable
-
On the Elite wheels, is there a steel free gun body available?
I do not believe so.
I will ask them about whether they are thinking about adding a biteguard.
Doesn’t really add weight, and just one of those finishing touches that makes existence on this earth a little more pleasant
-
Sorry! Totally forgot!
One set of photos is the Drive 45mm disc (not the gravel version) with 28mm Schwalbe Pro One TLE (tubeless) @ 70PSI. Please excuse my janky calipers.
Tire width = 29.5mm
Rim width = 28.5mm
The other is the Drive 50mm rim. Tire is 28mm Michelin Power Road Tubeless @ 70PSI
The rim version of the wheels is slightly wider on account of the brake track
Tire width = just shy of 30mm
Rim width = Just shy of 30mm
What about braking performance of 50V? Have you ever tested Fulcrum/Campagnolo AC3 brake track to have a comparison?
-
What about braking performance of 50V? Have you ever tested Fulcrum/Campagnolo AC3 brake track to have a comparison?
Hi there,
I personally haven't tried it, as I ride disc but customer feedback has been positive.
The rim version of the wheelset is a bit heavier than rhe disc version, as it it built-up more to accommodate a robust brake track.
It has a siped surface, which is designed to improve braking in wet conditions.
Hambini has also commented on its effectiveness. Stating:
"The rims feature a grooved brake track. This has a dramatic effect on braking efficiency and it is very noticeable, especially in the wet. The initial bite with the Elite wheels is extremely good. The system is similar to the brake track found on the Farsports wheels."
I hope this helps
-
To be honest, this is the most cheesy and biased (against Elitewheels) review. Then unlisted it lol.
Lol talk about good timing...
EDIT: I'm not against Elite wheels. I'm gonna see if I can grab a pair for review LoL
https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4 (https://youtu.be/Uwf2kdJ1qW4)