Description This wheelset is by far the best wheelset I have ever ridden. They have incredible stiffness and navigate turns with precision. Not only do they perform well but they are very durable, standing up to ...
Summary: While I've always been curious about high profile aero wheels, I could never justify the expense. Then a friend made me an offer I couldn't refuse (even if I'd rather have tubulars than clinchers).
I've been using them as my main racing wheels since April. They've seen their fair share of use an abuse (rain, rough roads, hitting a speed bump head on while winding up for a sprint). Needless to say they've held up, and held up well.
I should mention that I broke a spoke on the rear drive side last week. Considering that I'm 70 kg, I'd think that I was well within the weight limits. I'm guessing it was more of an aberration, than anything else. The good news is that it was a quick and cheap fix at the LBS.
Other random thoughts: if you're into the pose, then there's nothing like a set of aero rims to add something special.
The hubs spin well, although they're a tad loud when you coast.
Strengths: Good price.
Tough Wheels.
Conventional spokes = easy to fix.
Weaknesses: Some might point out the weight, but I live in the lowlands, so that's not an issue.
The logo is a little cheesy, and under the clear coat, so you're stuck with it.
Similar Products Used: Nothing "similar."
My other wheels include:
Mavic OP onUltegra hubs.
Ksyrium SLs
Ksyrium Elites
Bontrager Race X Lite Aero
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Bike Setup: I have 4 bikes with Dura-Ace.
Hoorah!! :-)
Summary: This review is for the C50A model with Pillar Aero spokes (the newer ones apparently have Sapim CX-Rays) and the non-ceramic hubs.
As far as I could ascertain, the Gigantex rims on these wheels are the same as those used on the Sonics which tested very "aeroly" on The Great Wheel Test. The name of the Sonics on that test is wrong: the Sonic Super isn't 50mm-deep, but the Hyper is.
I don't mind heavy wheels, but these wheels are REALLY heavy: 2080g without skewers or rim-tape! This will put off a lot of people. I bought these wheels for aerodymics, not light weight, but I'd expect a modern set of carbon wheels to be at least under 2kg! However, if the extra beef equals stiffness and durability, then I'm not too concerned. I'm 85kg, so I wanted stiff and tough wheels. I crahsed them pretty heavily at a race a few weeks ago, and they weren't damaged at all.
I do like the stiffness of these wheels, which, along with the reasonable price, is the main reason I bought them. I also have some Flash-Point FP60s, which are way too flexi for what I like, so the Tokens have been an improvement. The Tokens are still not as stiff any of my old alu wheels, but maybe that's too much to ask at my weight from carbon rims with 20 and 24 spokes. I like the look of the new Dura-Ace 50mm clinchers, so I might check them out at a later date.
The hubs roll fine, but the rear could be a little smoother. These are American Classic-type hubs with the 'micro' front and the large-flanged rear, which have their detractors, so I'm not sure what to expect from them in the long run as far as durability goes. I'm getting occasional creaking from the rear wheel, but I don't know if it's the hub or something else. Adjusting the pre-load "just right" on the rear is a little tricky: too tight and the bearings seem to be restricted, and too loose gives a bit of hub wobble.
These wheels weren't round when I bought them! The front was slightly egg-shaped, with two dips approximately 1.5mm deep! Luckily, the guy at the shop easily got them round in a few minutes. The rear had one similar dip which I got out myself. They've stayed very true since.
If anyone's thinking of buying these and taking the stickers off, forget it; the logos are painted on.
To be honest, I've never noticed any 'real world' speed improvement with any aero rims I've ridden, so these wheels didn't blow me away. All I have is the 'science' and aero tests which tell me I'm saving a few watts of drag. :-)
My rating of '4' might seem a little high, considering I've just listed a whole host of problems, but I think these problems aren't too big a deal, and I still like what I got for the price.... just. :-) Overall, I'd recommend these wheels if you want affordable aero wheels, and you mind the weight. Maybe the newer model with the different spokes are a bit lighter.
Strengths: Stiff enough. Roll smooth enough. Seem to be tough and robust. Can be bought for a decent price, but, in my opinion, these aren't worth any more than $1200 AUD, although they're much better value than many other wheelsets out there. They should be aero. :-)
Weaknesses: Very heavy (see above). The rear hub 'cones' need a bit of adjusting. The Token decals look a little d1cky and can't be taken off.
Bike Setup: Scott CR1 Pro, full ulterga, token c50 wheels, fizik arrione saddle.
Summary: I have had these wheels for more than 3month and about 4000km in it. It's a good whell, fast and good looking. Hubs are good and the sapim's spoke works well.
Strengths: Cheap, Fast and it's a full carbon clincher
Weaknesses: These wheels is a bit soft, After about 2000+km on it i noticed the wheel is not true anymore. I didn't hit any pothole. I send it for truing and a few ride later i hit one small pothole and "bang" the wheel bent until nothing can be done. I am 160lbs and i think its too soft coz cannot take the beating.
Similar Products Used: Mavic Ksyrium
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Summary: This wheelset is by far the best wheelset I have ever ridden. They have incredible stiffness and navigate turns with precision. Not only do they perform well but they are very durable, standing up to a fast and furious race season they are ready for more seasons to come. I highly recommend this product to someone that is interested in a GREAT wheelset!
Strengths: Very stiff, aerodynamic, smoothe on turns, lightweight, FAST!
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