Enve's new G23 carbon gravel wheels - Video First Look

If you've got deep pockets and a lust for gravel and adventure, these brand new Enve G23 wheels might interest you. In the video above we take a look at some of the key features of Enve's first gravel wheelset before we head into the shed to fit some tyres and get them out on the road and trail.

These new Enve G23 wheels, along with the 650b G27 wheels, were launched earlier this year. Jack got a first look at them then, but we've now got our hands on the 700c G23 wheels to put them through their paces and see if their unique design gives them the edge over other carbon rims. 

- Video: up close with Enve's new gravel-specific G Series wheelset

A quick recap, Enve says these new wheels “meet specific design objectives that represent ENVE’s take on a purpose-built gravel wheel.” What are those objectives you ask? Low weight, wide rims for wide gravel tyres, tubeless compatibility, durability, ride quality and anti-flat technology.

The rims feature 4.5mm wide rim beads that Enve claims works in tandem with the rim shape and carbon layup to dissipate the energy created when the rim slams into a hole, serving to protect the rim and prevent a pinch flat.

“The inspiration for the Wide Hookless Bead technology comes from sitting on the side of the road or trail fixing flat tires. We understand intimately that nothing puts the damper on a fun ride like a flat tire. In gravel, the problem is exacerbated given that tire volumes and tire pressures are lower than you have in mountain biking, but with gravel, the bikes have little to no suspension. The Wide Hookless Bead technology can eliminate pinch-flats and allows riders to run their perfect tire pressure,” explains ENVE Design Engineer Clint Child.

They certainly look the business, but how do they perform? Stay tuned for our first ride impressions soon. What do you think? Does the world really need a gravel-specific wheelset? Let's hear your thoughts in the comments section below.