5 Best Triathlon Wheels: Unleash Your Potential | 2024

In the thrilling world of triathlons, every second matters. From the rapid transitions between swimming, cycling, and running to the strategic nuances of pacing, there’s no denying the importance of every single component that contributes to an athlete’s success. And in the midst of all this excitement, there’s one element of the triathlon, particularly during the cycling phase, that often takes center stage: the wheels.

Triathlon wheels aren’t just any regular bicycle wheels. They are precision-engineered marvels designed to cut through the air, maintain stability at high speeds, and offer durability over long distances. Their significance can be likened to the role of shoes in running; just as the right pair of running shoes can make or break a race, the right set of wheels can have a monumental impact on a triathlete’s performance on the bike course.

Choosing the ideal wheels for a triathlon isn’t simply about aesthetics or brand loyalty. It’s about understanding the delicate balance of aerodynamics, weight, stiffness, and handling. Get it right, and the wheels can serve as a silent ally, propelling athletes forward with reduced effort. But a subpar choice can make the cycling segment more challenging than it needs to be.

As we delve into the world of triathlon wheels in this article, we’ll explore how this critical piece of equipment has the potential to elevate your triathlon game. 

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic amateur, the journey toward finding the perfect wheelset begins with understanding its sheer significance in the triathlon landscape.

Best Triathlon Wheels: Head-To-Head Comparison

Before delving into an in-depth analysis of the finest triathlon wheels, let’s provide you with a concise overview of each. Below is a direct comparison of our top selections, offering you swift insights.

5 Best Triathlon Wheels In 2024: Our Top Picks

Now, delving into a comprehensive discussion about triathlon wheels becomes essential, as making an informed purchase decision requires adequate information. Below, you’ll find an in-depth review of the three featured products.

1. SHIMANO 105 WH-RS710 C46 Road Wheelset

2. Zipp 808 NSW Tubeless Wheel

3. ICAN 700C LightWeight Carbon Wheelset

4. Fulcrum Wind 75 DB Carbon Wheelset

5. DT Swiss ARC 1100 Dicut 80

1. SHIMANO 105 WH-RS710 C46 Road Wheelset

Some unique features of the WH-RS710 C46 wheels model have impressed the riders. Its tubeless-ready aluminum rim with a 46mm depth makes it stable and aerodynamic in windy conditions. 

Furthermore, the rim is bigger than previous designs, measuring 21.6mm internally, allowing for a larger tire profile for better comfort and traction.

The 24-butted stainless steel spokes are created to be as tough and strong as possible while being lighter.

Additionally, the freehub body has a rapid engagement of 10 degrees for efficient power transfer and is highly suitable with cassettes with speeds of 10 to 11. 

Overall, it offers good value for its price and is an excellent choice for cyclists who want a quality upgrade over their stock wheelset.

Specs

• Wheel size:‎ 700c
• Color: Black
• Bike Type: ‎Road Bike, Mountain Bike
• Rim Depth: 46mm
• Brake Compatibility: Centerlock disc.

Pros

• Simple style that matches any bike;
• Compatible with disc brakes;
• Comes with Shimano’s Center Lock rotor mount system;
• Provides conversion kits for different axle standards;
• Relatively affordable.

Cons

• Only compatible with disc brakes;
• It is not the lightest option in its category.

2. Zipp 808 NSW Tubeless Wheel

Zipp 808 leads the list for best performance. Its rim profile with 82mm depth is optimized for aerodynamics. 

This design boosts consistency and lowers drag, enabling faster speeds. Moreover, It offers a smoother ride and less rolling resistance.

The wheelset has a tubeless valve, and the rim base is designed for simple tire installation and removal. Zipp’s cutting-edge carbon fiber technology also offers strength and rigidity while minimizing weight.

As a result, the wheelset is, therefore, lightweight and straightforward to accelerate and control.

Specs

• Wheel size:‎ 700C
• Color: Impress Graphics
• Bike Type: Road Bike
• Rim Depth: 82mm
• Brake Compatibility: ‎Disc

Pros

• Excellent aerodynamic performance; 
• A great choice for triathlons, time trials, and other competitions;
• Provides an incredible speed while cycling;
• Minimizes drag and increases rolling effectiveness;
• Control mechanisms increase stability and lessen turbulence.

Cons

• People with low budgets cannot easily access this;
• Regular maintenance and lubrication are required.

3. ICAN 700C Light Weight Carbon Wheelset

The last wheel model on our top triathlon wheel list is highly affordable for most riders because it is the most budget-friendly model of our selection. 

The wheel rim with 38mm depth and 25mm external width allow for broader tire compatibility; the ICAN’s AERO hub technology features sealed cartridge bearings for quick maintenance and supple rolling.

The front wheel’s 20-bladed spokes and the rear wheel’s 24-bladed spokes offer the best rigidity, strength, and weight reduction. 

After all, this is an excellent choice for riders looking for a lightweight, aerodynamic wheelset without breaking the budget.

Specs

• Wheel size:‎ ‎700C
• Color: 38C-R13-CN
• Bike Type: Road bike & mountain bike
• Rim Depth: 38mm
• Brake Compatibility: Disc brakes.

Pros

• Affordable in price;
• The lightest wheelsets in its category;
• It lessens drag and increases speed;
• Performs excellently and is super durable;
• Improves transfer of power and handling.

Cons

• Some riders have reported issues when ridden on rough roads or in weather.

4. Fulcrum Wind 75 DB Carbon Wheelset

The Fulcrum Wind 75 DB Carbon Wheelset stands as a testament to Fulcrum’s relentless commitment to aerodynamic excellence. Designed specifically for riders with a need for speed, this high-profile wheel is particularly advantageous in time trials, triathlons, and situations demanding optimal aerodynamics. 

The result of rigorous wind tunnel testing, the Wind 75 DB features a new profile of the unidirectional carbon rim that balances air penetration and high-speed stability without compromising the wheel’s impeccable handling. 

Adhering to contemporary design dimensions, it boasts a rim width of 27mm and a channel width of 19mm, striking a balance between speed and control. 

Integrated features such as the RDB™ Rim Dynamic Balance, DRSC™, and the Anti-Rotation System™ further underscore the technical prowess of this wheelset.

Pros:

• Developed through comprehensive wind tunnel research, ensuring maximum speed and stability.
• Suitable for 9-speed to 12-speed systems, accommodating a variety of setups.
• Incorporates proprietary technologies like RDB™ and DRSC™ to improve balance and performance.
• 2-Way Fit™ design makes it suitable for both traditional clinchers and tubeless setups.

Cons:

• At 1820g, it’s not the lightest wheelset available.
• The 75mm profile, while great for aerodynamics, might be challenging in strong crosswinds for some riders.
• Advanced technology and design might make it a premium purchase for some budgets.

5. DT Swiss ARC 1100 Dicut 80

Engineered for those with an insatiable need for speed, the DT Swiss ARC 1100 Dicut 80 wheelset is the epitome of aerodynamic excellence. Born from a collaborative effort with SWISS SIDE, the leader in aerodynamic enhancements, the wheelset boasts AERO+ rim profiles, optimizing airflow and drastically minimizing steering torque. 

It excels in scenarios demanding advanced aerodynamics and remains stable even in challenging crosswinds. An intriguing attribute of this wheelset is the sailing effect it produces in crosswinds, providing a forward push. 

The tubeless-ready rim profiles ensure ease of tire installation, while the redesigned 180 DICUT hub reduces weight, enhancing the wheelset’s performance. 

DT Swiss’s Ratchet EXP technology further elevates reliability, guaranteeing a swift and secure engagement every time.

Pros:

• Developed in tandem with SWISS SIDE, ensuring low air resistance and reduced steering torque.
• The unique design provides a forward sailing effect, aiding riders during challenging conditions.
• The 180 DICUT hub has been refined for better aerodynamics and is lighter by 11g.
• The incorporation of Ratchet EXP technology guarantees quick and dependable engagement.

Cons:

• The 80mm rim profile might present challenges for some riders in extremely windy conditions.
• A 110kg weight limit might not be suitable for all riders and their gear.
• Given its advanced features and tech integrations, the wheelset might be on the higher end of the budget spectrum for some cyclists.

What To Look For?

Navigating the vast ocean of triathlon wheels can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available in the market. Each wheelset boasts a range of features, promising to offer the edge every triathlete seeks.

However, not every wheel is suitable for every rider or every race. As such, there are several crucial factors to consider before making an informed decision. Let’s break them down:

Rider Skill Level:

If you’re just dipping your toes into the triathlon world, you might not need the same wheelset as a seasoned pro. Beginners should prioritize reliability, comfort, and value for money. 

On the other hand, advanced riders, chasing podium finishes, might lean towards high-performance wheels that offer marginal gains in speed and efficiency.

Rim depth

Rim depth is considered one of the essential factors in choosing triathlon wheels. The depth of the rim provides better performance in riding. 

But before choosing wheels, you must consider your riding style and what kind of race you want to participate in.

A rim depth of 50mm or more is considered as it provides more aerodynamic benefits.

A rim depth of up to 30mm is sufficient for such courses as it offers better stability in crosswinds.

For hilly courses, a rim depth of 30-50mm will provide a good balance for handling.

Related: Best Tubeless Rim Tape: 7 Best MTB Tapes for Mountain Bike

Material

Triathlon wheels are made of different materials (aluminum, fiber & hybrid composites), each with different characteristics. So it is essential to know which material to consider to meet your requirements.

Carbon fiber is famous for triathlon bike wheels because it is powerful, stiff, and lightweight. However, this material is expensive compared to others and may potentially to wrong crush damage.

Aluminum is an affordable, durable, and reliable material for triathlon wheels. It is even less prone to damage than carbon fiber.

Some triathlon wheels are made of a material that is a combination of aluminum and carbon fiber. This composite with carbon fiber strengthens aluminum and balances the riding performance.

Hub type

Like regular bike wheels, the hub of triathlon wheels is also an essential element in the wheel’s center. Hub comes in two types: traditional and sealed cartridges.

Traditional hubs consist of bearings, an outer shell, a freehub body, and an axle. Besides, it is more affordable than sealed cartridges but requires more maintenance for durability.

On the other hand, this hub type is more expensive but requires less maintenance. They have a cartridge bearing system that seals the bearings from dirt and water. Also, sealed cartridge hubs have a longer lifespan than traditional hubs.

Brake compatibility

Another important considerable factor is brake compatibility. In this case, you must choose the most convenient between the rim and disc brakes.

Most traditional triathlon wheels were designed to use rim brakes. Therefore not all wheels will be compatible with rim brakes, so double-check before purchasing.

Disc brakes are the most popular for triathlon bike wheels because they offer better stopping power and performance in wet or muddy conditions.

Some triathlon wheels are designed to accommodate both rim brakes and disc brakes. So the wheel you’re considering should be versatile enough to avoid wasting time adjusting to different brake systems.

Related: The 3 Best Triathlon Helmets for Protection

Budget

Triathlon wheels can range from relatively affordable to exorbitantly priced. However, it’s essential to remember that the most expensive wheel isn’t always the best fit for everyone. 

Instead, consider what you’re truly getting for the price. Seek a balance between quality, performance, and affordability. 

Think of it as an investment; sometimes, it’s worth spending a bit more for a significant performance gain, while other times, moderately priced wheels can deliver outstanding results.

Maintenance and Durability: 

Triathlon is a demanding sport, and your wheels will inevitably face wear and tear. Prioritize wheelsets known for their durability. 

Additionally, consider how easy it is to maintain the wheels. Can you easily change a flat? Are replacement parts readily available? Remember, longevity and ease of maintenance can significantly impact the total cost of ownership in the long run.

Reviews

Reading reviews from other triathletes can be a great way to understand how different wheels perform in real-world situations and how they might meet your individual needs and preferences. 

You can check websites like Amazon, Triathlete, and BikeRadar for reviews from users who have purchased and used various types of triathlon wheels. 

Besides, You can also check forums and social media groups dedicated to triathlon and cycling to see what other athletes say about it.

Common Misconceptions about Triathlon Wheels

Triathlon, like many sports, is not immune to myths and misconceptions. Especially when it comes to equipment, where choices can be influenced by marketing, peer pressure, or even the simple desire to have the “best” of everything. 

Wheels, pivotal to a cyclist’s performance, are often at the heart of these misunderstandings. 

Let’s debunk some of the most common misconceptions about triathlon wheels:

Deeper is always better:

At first glance, deep-section wheels, with their impressive profiles and undeniable aesthetic appeal, might seem like the ultimate choice for speed. The rationale is that a deeper rim offers superior aerodynamics, allowing riders to cut through the wind more efficiently. However, the reality is more nuanced. 

While deeper wheels can indeed be faster on flat terrains and inconsistent wind conditions, they can become tricky to handle in crosswinds, given their larger surface area. Moreover, their added weight can be a hindrance on hilly courses.

It’s essential to understand that the depth of the rim should be chosen based on race conditions, rider skill level, and personal comfort.

The more expensive, the better:

It’s tempting to equate price with quality, assuming that a higher price tag guarantees superior performance. While it’s true that many high-end wheels come with advanced materials and technology, they don’t always translate to tangible benefits for every rider.

A professional might benefit from the marginal gains offered by a top-tier wheelset, but an amateur or beginner might find a mid-range set just as effective for their needs. 

It’s crucial to evaluate wheels based on their features, compatibility, and actual performance benefits rather than just their cost.

One wheel fits all races:

Just as a jack-of-all-trades is often a master of none, expecting a single wheelset to be optimal for all race conditions is unrealistic. A wheel perfect for a flat, time-trial course might not be the best choice for a technical, hilly triathlon. 

Wheels should be chosen with the specific demands of the race in mind. While it’s not feasible for every triathlete to own multiple wheelsets, understanding the strengths and limitations of your chosen wheels can help in strategizing and setting realistic expectations for different races.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best triathlon wheels involves deep research and some vital considerations. The essential factors can significantly impact your bike’s performance during a triathlon race. 

Therefore it’s essential to take the time to research and compare different options to find the best wheels that fit your needs and budget. 

We recently presented a review of the top triathlon wheels in the above discussion and a handy buyer’s guide. Hopefully, you have grasped the essential concepts from these. 

Perhaps, you can now enhance your performance and have a better chance of achieving your goals in your next triathlon race.