After selling a couple of wheelsets, I ordered another set of Zen wheels the week before last for my upcoming Quick Pro build:
65/65mm rims, 25mm internal width, paired with the R2 hub in silver and 3.95mm spokes.
Now that Zen can source THR hubs, I initially ordered the THR RX hub. However, I was fortunate to cancel it in time. The carbon spokes I was considering weren’t suitable for the setup, and the RX hub can’t accept anything wider than a 2.3mm spoke. The more appropriate spoke options were heavier, which ultimately defeated the purpose in terms of both weight and cost.
As a result, I reverted to the R2 hub with 3.95mm spokes.
I’m still considering switching to 3.1mm spokes for a slight weight saving, and I’m also exploring whether there’s a lighter, more suitable option available elsewhere — perhaps something in the middle ground around 3.4mm–3.5mm.
Estimated wheelset weight is 1292.5g.
There are lighter 395g rim options available with a 90kg load limit, but I’ve opted for the 425g version rated at 100–110kg for added strength and durability. The lighter rims would bring the total weight down to around 1232.5g. I could also have selected ultra-light 230g traditionally laced hubs, which would reduce the wheelset to 1177.5g, and with 3.1mm spokes potentially as low as 1104g.
That said, while I appreciate weight savings, I prioritise performance and reliability. What I’ve chosen represents a sensible balance between weight, strength, and real-world performance.