Test: Bikes specially developed for gravel use can now be found everywhere. In addition to the so-called gravel bikes, special components and equipment variants are also being used more and more frequently. It doesn't matter whether it's a Gravel groupset, a Gravel handlebar or, as in our case, Gravel wheels. With the GR 3000, the German manufacturer Citec has added a robust gravel wheel set to its own lineup in order to offer the best performance and lots of riding fun on the most diverse trips with the gravel bike. We tested what the Citec Gravel wheelset has to offer and how it rides for a period of more than 6 months.
The Citec Gravel wheelset was specially designed for Gravel use and, in addition to a more robust construction compared to classic road bike wheels, also has various features that should make use over hill and dale more pleasant. The goal was to develop a real all-rounder that brings very high stability and combines this with low weight and good driving comfort. With a total weight of 1675 grams per wheelset, the 26mm high Citec GR 3000 is really something to be proud of. With a permissible load weight of 120 kilos, one can actually speak of a successful combination of stability and weight.
In order for such a performance to be possible at all, the Citec gravel wheel set was completely redeveloped and manufactured in-house. The 26mm high concave system aluminum rim makes a contribution that should not be neglected, as this enables, among other things, the robust construction and also promotes comfort. Of course, the rims are also tubeless-ready and can be used for tubeless tires. Thanks to the generous inner width of the rims, tires up to 56mm wide can be mounted, which ensures incorruptible versatility on almost any terrain. Because not only the grip is improved by the voluminous tires, but also the driving comfort is significantly favored. Especially if you use the Citec GR 3000 with tubeless tires and therefore less air pressure.
With the Citec Power-Block System, you not only ensure a comfortable ride over hill and dale, but also maximum stability and durability. Because Citec is firmly convinced of its quality, there is a 5-year guarantee against spoke breakage on top of that. You can call the all-rounder from Citec your own for 699 euros, so the price-performance ratio is also right here.
Long-term test of the Citec Gravel wheelset – our conclusion
For us, the Citec GR 3000 has always been a faithful companion. We were always on our way over hill and dale without any problems and didn't have to deal with any defects. The rolling properties are very decent for this price segment apart from the carbon variants and are complemented by great comfort. The specific spoke structure and tension cushion a lot and forgive one or the other mistake. So if you're looking for a robust all-rounder for your gravel tours, you should take a closer look at the Citec GR 3000, because like us, it won't let you down either.