Over the past couple of weeks, WTB has gone hard on gravel, unveiling its aerodynamic tyres and now a wheelset that’s purpose-built for modern gravel. With a ‘diamond-like’ carbon ratchet, completely new rims and hubs that have already seen success on the World Cup circuit, there’s a lot going on with WTB’s latest wheelset.
It’s no secret that gravel has been evolving pretty quickly, especially as gravel racing has become so popular. Now, we’re seeing super aero bikes like Factor’s Elara, which is making the whole genre pretty exciting, if you ask me. Under its modern gravel crusade, WTB is jumping on that gravel race hype train and has delivered a wheelset that it believes suits the current demands.
To start with the hubs, the CGR i28 uses WTB’s Frequency 7X hubs, which have been used by the folk at Cannondale Factory Racing, and what makes them exciting is a new hub-and-ratchet interface. It uses what the brand calls a DLC, or Diamond-Like Carbon coating, which promises both extra durability and lower friction than regular chrome-plated alternatives. Further boosting durability is that the ratchet ring doesn’t use a thread, similar to what’s seen on DT Swiss’s hubs. Instead, it’s splined, which WTB says can withstand twice the torque of regular designs but without the need for specialist tools when it comes to servicing.
In further pursuit of durability, the Frequency 7X hubs roll on larger-than-usual bearings from Enduro Bearings. According to the brand, this boosts the stiffness of the axle assembly while increasing overall longevity. Of course, the hubs are properly sealed, too.
Moving on to the rims, WTB recognises that although mountain and gravel intersect quite a lot, gravel still needs specific kit. As such, the 40mm deep rims feature 28mm internal widths. This is to provide better tyre stability, traction, suppleness, and efficiency, especially for gravel riding. The rims then use an asymmetric profile, which is said to offer more balanced spoke tension, while 4D spoke drillings and reinforced spoke beds help with load distribution. Yep, these are carbon rims.
Better still, WTB has graced the CGR i28 wheelset with what looks like a very handy warranty. It states that it’ll replace a broken carbon rim for free for the original owner.
If WTB’s take on modern gravel wheels suits you, the CGR i28 wheelset will set you back £1,199.
