Based in the Netherlands, 9th Wave Cycling makes a variety of carbon bicycle wheels. While they offer a selection of disc-brake-specific products for the ever-expanding disc market, their latest release is for rim brakes. Claiming unprecedented braking, unique front/rear rim profiles, and tubeless compatibility, 9th Wave is looking to keep your rim brake bike relevant in 2019 and beyond.
9th Wave Cycling Vanora 38.42 rim brake carbon wheels
It’s no secret that disc brakes are taking a huge slice of road bike market share in 2019. However, rim brakes are definitely still around, and 9th Wave Cycling decided to invest in it. Why? According to 9th Wave’s own website:
“A completely new wheelset for rim brakes at a time when disc brakes are on the rise? Why not?”
As the name suggests, the rim depth for the Vanora 38.42 is unique for front (38mm) and rear (42mm). Combined with an asymmetric rear rim shape, they say it offers an ideal balance of crosswind stability, aerodynamic performance, and balanced spoke tension for long-term durability.
Vanora says that their unique “profiled” braking surface offers great performance in both wet and dry conditions… plus they include FOUR complete sets of brake pads so you always have stock. Similar to many other manufacturers, Vanora says that you should only use their supplied brake pad, as it’s the only one they can vouch for in terms of safety and performance.
Vanora uses their own Torquay carbon hubs in the 38.42 wheels, with straight pull spokes and a 15-degree freehub engagement. Weight is impressively light, at 79 grams front, 202 grams rear.
Weight for the Vanora 38.42 wheels is 1,440 grams (rim-only weight 475g front, 480g rear). Like all 9th Wave Cycling wheels, they’re hand built in the Netherlands, and are available in dealers and online for €1.299,00. Check out these and other 9th Wave wheels at the link below.
