Fulcrum Red Power XL wheels

THESE WHEELS CERTAINLY don't look like some of the cheapest on test, and the adjustable-preload bearings are some of the smoothest and longest lived at any price.

The straight-pull spokes are securely anchored but the narrow rims make tyres over 2,35in feel unstable when cornering hard and there's noticeable flex when trying to fight through rock gardens or rutted corners. Doubled up driveside spokes keep the rear wheel positive under power though, and the steel freehub body is super-tough.

The Red Powers work OK if you add a tubeless kit, and 15mm and 142x12mm adaptors are included, making them great value if you're after a smooth rolling and reliable wheelset and don't need SRAM 11-speed compatibility.

Weight: (840g F, 1,030g R)

Rim: 19/24,5mm

Freehub lag: 10°

Tubeless type: ready

Sizes: 26in, 650b

Options: QR/15/20 F, QR135x10/135x12/142x12mm

XD: No

PRICE 380$

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