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Dutch wheel brand FFWD has launched three new wheels under the RAW model name, bringing carbon spokes and CeramicSpeed bearings, in custom hubs, to the line-up.
Lighter rims, saving 10% compared to other FFWD rims, reportedly achieved through precise layup techniques, combined with carbon spokes, are said to result in a wheel with an increased stiffness of 17%. The rims are available in either a matt or gloss finish, across the three wheel depths.
A wheel for all occasions
The brand highlights that RAW33 is aimed at climbers (with a stated weight of 1350 grams), whilst RAW44 is positioned for all-around use (stated weight 1395 grams), and RAW 55 for aero-focused riders (stated weight 1460 grams).
CeramicSpeed bearings, fitted inside FFWD’s custom design hubs, feature on all three wheelsets, with all RAW wheels built by hand at the brand’s facility in Zwolle, The Netherlands.
Carbon spoke strength
These wheels are FFWD’s first with carbon spokes and the brand is keen to point out they have been put to the test over a two year period, with riders of all heights, weights and power outputs testing the wheels in a variety of riding conditions. “With Confidence, we can say that these wheels meet our high standards. The carbon spokes save weight but also bring the weight mass to the centre of the wheel. This results in a more responsive wheel set.”
Why carbon spokes for the RAW?
FFWD believe that the ultimate high-end wheelset needs carbon spokes. With RAW representing the brand’s ultimate wheelset, it was felt these should feature carbon spokes – not just as a cool feature – but as a means to enhance performance, contributing significantly to the overall performance of the wheel. Their minimal weight also brings the total weight of the set down and shifts the total mass weight to the centre of the wheel. This is said to result in a more responsive wheel.
Are carbon spokes difficult to service?
Serviceability and durability are key for FFWD, who wanted to ensure replaceable carbon spokes don’t always require a factory return in case of a snapped spoke. Carbon spokes in the new RAW are said to be easily adjusted, tensioned or replaced, with the launch announcement stating, “Almost the same as most traditional spokes”.
Technical information regarding building, and/or truing:
- Nipple squares, visible from the outside of the rim, are only to keep the spoke in a
fixed position during tensioning/truing (with a 3.45mm nipple key). - Actual adjustment of the nipple needs to be done from the inside with a HEX5.5 nipple key.
- The spokes use internal nipples, so for adjusting the spokes the tyre and tubeless tape need to be removed.
- Recommended tools for truing and adjusting are; Parktool SW-42 and SW-15.
FFWD strongly recommend customers only have a skilled and experienced mechanic work these wheels
Where to get the spare parts?
The carbon spokes and CeramicSpeed bearings are custom-made for this model. Spare parts are on stock at FFWD and can be ordered. Freebody’s for Campagnolo, Shimano or SRAM XDR are also available as a spare part.
Price and UK availabilityÂ
Stock will be available in the UK, via Extra UK, from the 7th March and all three depths will cost £2249.
