At this rate, it won’t be long until you’ll be able to get Easton’s ARC rims in any width you please. Ok, that is a bit of an exaggeration, but with the addition of the new ARC+ series, Easton is now slinging aluminum goodness in 6 different widths. While that may seem like overkill on the surface, if you look at all of the different bikes and the ways that they’re ridden, being able to tailor the rim and tire size to the application is part of what made the ARC rims successful in the first place. That, and the fact that they offer a durable, light weight solution for wide (now wider) rims at an attainable price…
Compared to the original 24/27/30mm rims of the ARC series, the ARC+ rims continue with 35, 40, and 45mm widths. When Easton refers to the width, they’re referring to the internal width so these are a true 35, 40, and 45mm. External measurements come in at 39, 44, and 49mm. Eaton calls these rims true plus size models, rather than shrunken fat bike rims – which is important since plus size bikes are likely to be ridden more aggressively and need a rim that will stand up to the abuse. The ARC+ rims get their strength from a welded aluminum construction with a 20mm depth. Sold in both 27+ and 29+ sizes in all three widths, all rims a 32 hole and are tubeless compatible with tape and valves sold separately.
Going by the chart supplied by Easton (from September 2015 – WTB now lists the Scraper 27.5 at 650g), the ARC+ rims are looking pretty good in every category, and will sell for $129.99.