Fulcrum launched the Speed 25+ , claiming to be the lightest disc brake wheels ever produced. The claimed weight for the Climbing wheels is just 1,270 grams, which is an approximate 15-gram reduction over the Speed 25 wheels. Although there are other wheels with lower weights, Fulcrum presents its justification for this statement.
Suffix “plus” means the “Top” model of the Italian brand
As for the rims, the ‘plus’ suffix on Fulcrum’s Speed 25+ reveals its position as the Italian brand’s premium model. This translates into a new carbon frame, high-quality ceramic bearings and a redesigned freewheel body.
As for measurements, the Speed 25+ maintains the 26mm rim depth and 21mm internal rim width used by the Speed 25. Tubeless ready wheels feature a non-perforated rim base, which eliminates the need for additional rim tape.
The wheels also have 24 straight aerodynamic spokes front and rear and compatibility with a thru axle and a weight limit of 120kg.
Fulcrum special resins
The bezel uses Fulcrum’s own FF100 resin blend, with a matte finish. New wheel graphics feature a laser-etched finish.
While the Speed 25 wheels use Ultra Smooth USB ceramic bearings in the hub, the 25+ uses the Italian brand’s Ceramic Ultimate Level Technology, or CULT as the company calls it.
Using a cup and cone system instead of sealed bearings, all surfaces benefit from a ceramic treatment, with greater smoothness as the desired objective.
Redesigned Freehub
With a redesigned freehub, Fulcrum says it has reduced both weight and friction with USB ceramic bearings. The XDR, N3W and HG versions are available for use with SRAM, Campagnolo and Shimano cassettes. The wheels have 24 straight aerodynamic spokes front and rear and thru-axle compatibility.
Lightest wheels ever produced
It appears Fulcrum is using “less than 30mm” as their justification. Although there are wheels with an allegedly lower weight, such as Roval’s Alpinist CLX II, which weighs 1,265g, and Black Inc’s 28/33, which are even lighter, at just 1,142g per pair. However, both have rim depths of more than 30mm (only at the rear in the case of the Black Inc model).
In fact, the trend towards versatile road bike wheels, which combine low weight with improved aerodynamics, means that it’s relatively rare to find a carbon rim smaller than 30mm these days.
Fulcrum 25+ wheels price
Wheel prices, with SRAM, Campagnolo and Shimano hubs, are as follows:
US$ 2.967,00 XDR
US$ 2.955,00 HG11
US$ 2.965,00 N3W