Test: Aero wheels with extremely high rims are mainly found in time trials and triathlons. From time to time, however, they are also used for criteria and on extremely flat courses by drivers who are strong in sprinting.
The Oval Concepts 981 belong in this segment. We took a look at the wheelset.
equipment and practice
The Oval Concepts 981 are characterized by their 20,8 millimeters wide and 81 millimeters high rims, which are reinforced in the area of the braking flanks. The shape is relatively constant up to the spoke arch. At the front are the ovals fitted with industrial bearings 900-Hub 16 double butted spokes mounted. There are four more spokes on the rear wheel. It is exciting that these are crossed on the freewheel side. This is intended to give the impeller greater lateral rigidity.
And indeed, in use, the wheels are extremely stiff. They can be accelerated quickly, but always remain reactive. They respond well-naturedly to changes in direction. In general, they can be assessed well.
This is also noticeable in the wind. Depending on your strength, you should consider going for a front wheel with a flatter rim height. However, they show up 981 anything but nervous.
The directional stability is simply very good. Even rides over rough ground, such as pavement or weather-beaten asphalt, the wheels do not acknowledge with lateral or vertical impacts.
It can be stated: The 981 roll - and pretty well. In this regard, Fuji did everything right. Once up to speed, it's easy to keep up the pace. If you have to dose it once in a while, then you can rely on the flanks. As already noted, these are reinforced. A closer look reveals the weave pattern. In dry conditions you don't need to worry with the right rubber. Even in the rain they belong 981 not the worst, although one should watch out for the rubbers here. We have good experiences with SwissStop Flash pro .
Anyone looking for wheels of this color will inevitably have to make compromises in terms of weight. At just under 1.800 grams, they are 981 anything but easy. However, considering that these are clincher wheels, the weight is reasonable.
Conclusion
The Oval Concepts 981-The wheels are an eye-catcher. And they roll - pretty well actually. The braking performance is also excellent. In this respect, the Americans have done everything right.
product Highlights
- high lateral rigidity
- very smooth hubs
- good braking properties
price and web
- EUR 1.699,00
- www.ovalconcepts.com