F-1. A simple letter and a number combination that has garnered global recognition in the automotive racing world and become synonymous with speed, performance and technology. It’s a fitting name for competition or luxury level componentry, such as these ultralight, hand-built cross country wheels from France’s Asterion.
Asterion is a small operation that assembles about 10 wheelsets a day, but the company is growing with an impressively wide selection of high-end stock and custom wheels. Their new carbon F-One wheelset should catch the eye of weight-conscious cross-country riders. According to Asterion, the 27.5” F-One wheelset weighs in at 1137g, and the 29” set weighs 1184g, not including the tubeless valves or rim tape. There are a few options to choose that might change that number, but you’re still looking at some very svelte wheels.
Find out about Asterion’s rim options after the jump…
The tubeless compatible, 28-spoke rims are made from T1000 carbon fiber and interestingly Asterion offers a few different versions to suit varying riding styles. First off, the rims come in two widths. The ‘normal’ width measures 22mm inside the bead, and is meant for weight weenies and XC racers looking to shave every gram off their bike. The bigger size is 25mm internally and better suited for enduro style riding, offering more durability and stability in technical terrain. Beefing up to the wider rim doesn’t sacrifice much weight, as it only adds 14g to each.
Furthermore, buyers can also choose between standard or reinforced sidewalls for the same reasons as listed above. With the reinforced sidewall the internal width you choose remains the same, as the additional reinforcement is added to the outside of the rim. Choosing the reinforced sidewalls will cost you 38g per rim versus the standard version.
Fellow French component manufacturer Aivee’s Edition One hubs serve as the stock option for the F-One wheelset, but for an additional cost the wheels can be purchased with either Chris King or DT Swiss hubs. Several different axle sizes can be accommodated, covering basically any combination of traditional QR, 15mm front axles and 142×12 rear axles.
As a boutique manufacturer, Asterion appears to have embraced the idea of customization. Not only can customers choose between two rim widths and strengths, there are plenty of cosmetic options like Black, Red, Tangerine, or Blue hubs, and your choice of black or silver spokes. The F-One wheelset sells for €2499 ($2842 USD), and can be purchased on Asterion’s website.
