The new Syntace MX Straight 33i Carbon wheels are more than just a new combination of parts from the brand. The hubs are new, and the rim is new, and together they make a impressive wheelset that comes in at 1,580g (27.5″) with Boost axle spacing and a 33mm internal rim width.
They’re laced with 28 spokes per wheel, with the same length spokes on each side of the hub and front to rear so it’s easier to keep just a few spares on hand without worrying they’ll be the right length. And, they say, the rims and build are so good that if you do break one, you’ll be able to ride out just fine. They’re straight pull, too, which is new for them, and you can grab those hubs separately if you want to build your own…
The C33i rims measure 40mm wide on the outside with a well shaped 33mm wide inside. Bead hooks and a notched bead channel help lock the tire into place for solid tubeless performance. They’re also compatible with Schwalbe ProCore tire systems. The shaping of the rim complements carbon’s inherent stiffness, and the use of 3K woven carbon at the edge helps it withstand impacts better. Rim weight is just 430g, impressive for the width.
They’re laced 3x with Sapim spokes and alloy nipples. Retail for the wheels is €1,400.
The hubs are their new HiTorque MX Straightpull, which license American Classic’s steel freehub body insert to prevent the cassette from biting into the otherwise alloy part.
The new straight pull hubs are lighter than the original flanged design (background) but use the same double seals and waterproof axle end caps to keep them running clean and smooth. Weights are 286g for 12×142 rear (289g for Boost 12×148) and 138g for 15×100 front (142g Boost 15×110). Retail is €220 and €160 (€380 for the pair). Inside, they’ve increased the number of engagement points from 36 to 44, providing a 20% quicker response.
Both the hubs and wheels come with a 10 year warranty, three years with 100% replacement coverage for defects and the remaining seven at about 50% of then current pricing.
The new Syntace Vector Superlight handlebar series comes in with four sizes/shapes, all under 200g despite testing very strong against the competition…and meeting the VR-3 downhill standard.
They’re available in 8º and 12º sweeps, in 720mm and 760mm widths, all with 10mm rise.
Click to enlarge. Sure, they’re narrow by today’s enduro standards, but a 760 makes a fine XC bar with a weight that’s enviable. Retail is €250.
