Over the past couple of weeks, you may have seen WTB release a gravel wheelset donning hubs that have already seen success on the cross-country circuit, all but without any word of an XC wheelset on the horizon. However, that’s changed, as today the brand has unveiled its CMR Light wheelset, which claims to weigh 1,300g, while boasting that interesting freehub technology. Here’s everything you need to know.
WTB’s new CMR Light wheelset is built around the Frequency 7X hub platform found on its CGR i28 gravel hoops, which has already seen results under riders such as Luca Martin. The freehub benefits from ratchets that are covered in a ‘Diamond-Like Carbon’ coating, which WTB says is harder and more slippery than chrome-plated alternatives, so they should be more durable while developing less friction. Additionally, the inner, or hub-side ratchet ring is a splined interface that’s cut into the hub body, rather than a threaded insert. Apparently, this helps the freehub withstand twice the torque of traditional designs.
On top of all that, the Frequency 7X hubs use larger-than-usual Enduro bearings that boost the load rating by 38%, according to WTB. The larger bearings then promote stiffness while increasing service intervals. Of course, there’s then a full suite of seals to keep dirt and water out.
Moving towards the rims, they’re built from carbon fibre and each benefits from 30mm internal widths with a hookless rim design. They then benefit from wide upper ‘legs’ which help stave off pinch flats, says the brand. The external spoke hole reinforcement brings 4D drillings to ‘optimise’ load distribution, boosting overall strength. Then, that carbon layup is shaped to provide comfort over small bumps but precision under hard cornering loads.
Costing £1,299 per pair, WTB’s CMR Light wheels come pre-taped and with valves installed, and claim to weigh 1,300g.
