PI ROPE wheelset 28" Gravel Light Center Lock Beast GR25 | Black Premium Edition
Can a robust gravel wheelset with textile spokes work? So far, there have been many approaches from well-known manufacturers, but all of them have produced less than satisfactory results. The young and extremely innovative think tank PI ROPE from Chemnitz, Saxony, has made the impossible possible in collaboration with Chemnitz University of Technology. The result is a textile spoke made from braided Vectran synthetic fibers.
The material is extremely robust, resistant to ageing and weathering and has better mechanical properties than its steel counterpart. The tensile strength and damping are many times higher, but the weight of the fibers is five times lower. These are ideal conditions for a very light yet durable wheel, as the rotating masses in the important outer areas are minimized and the flexibility of the Vectran textile spokes prevents permanent plastic deformation at high load peaks.
Thanks to the black PI PROTECT coating of the Vectran yarn before the braiding process, the properties of the textile spokes are improved. The treated surface not only looks good, it also offers better UV protection and reduces the influence of negative weather conditions.
In addition, the abrasion resistance against external damage, such as that caused by stones and branches on the trail, is increased. Any mechanical loads that occur are better absorbed and ensure greater durability. The resulting increase in stiffness is particularly noticeable when cornering. Another plus, the processing of the textile spoke, has been further optimized in terms of quality.
Rims from Beast Components are the ideal basis for this exceptional wheelset. The small manufacturer from Dresden has dedicated itself entirely to the material carbon and manufactures with it at the highest level, guaranteeing stability and durability.
With the GR25, you get a lightweight yet stiff rim. It shows its advantages particularly on narrow trails. Steering commands are passed on directly and smoothly and the low weight has a positive effect when accelerating. Of course, fast passages on asphalt or gravel are also no problem, making this rim an all-round talent.
The hookless and extra-reinforced rim flange ensures robustness. This can withstand even the hardest punctures, preventing damage to this exposed area. Furthermore, the air pressure can be lowered, which significantly increases comfort and grip. In addition, the enormous inner width gives the tire perfect support, which prevents it from buckling in fast bends and creates more riding stability.
The rims have an asymmetrical rim profile, which enables a more even spoke angle. This optimization allows the tension on both sides to be better aligned, which is beneficial to the durability of the spokes and the wheel as a whole.
The high-quality workmanship and the well thought-out choice of materials mean that you can forgive the occasional riding mistake and keep the rims looking like new even after many kilometers.
In cooperation with the well-known component manufacturer NONPLUS COMPONENTS, special hubs have been developed that can accommodate the special ends of the PI ROPE spokes. The current Road hubs with pawl freewheel and 33 ratchets also have durable bearings pressed in precisely and without tension, so that the often tedious adjustment of the axial bearing play is completely eliminated. A unique venting system prevents the build-up of negative pressure due to temperature fluctuations in the hub. As a result, no water is sucked through the ball bearings, which ensures a significantly longer service life and noticeably smoother running of the bearings. Thanks to the slim shape in the center section, the hub saves weight and is also more aerodynamic.
The makers of PI ROPE have confidence in their products and offer a 3-year warranty on all material and manufacturing defects as well as a 2-year crash replacement.
technical data
Area of application: Gravel
Wheel size: 28" (ETRTO: 622 x 25 mm)
Rim type: clincher (clincher and folding tires)
Brake type: for disc brakes only
Brake disc mount: Center Lock
Hub material: Aluminum, steel
Rim material: Carbon
Spoke material: Vectran synthetic fiber
Inner width: 25 mm
Outer width: 30.4 mm
Rim height: 30 mm
Offset: yes, 2 mm
Number of holes: 24 holes (per rim)
Spokes: 48x Pi ROPE Vectran PI Protect textile spokes / straight pull (black)
Spoking pattern: 3-crossed
Axle standard front: 12x100 mm thru axle
Rear axle standard: 12x142 mm thru axle
Front bearing: 2x industrial deep groove ball bearings
Rear bearing: 4x industrial deep groove ball bearings
Freehub compatibility: 11-, 12-speed Shimano Road, 12-speed Shimano Micro Spline, 12-speed SRAM XDR, 13-speed Campagnolo N3W
Freehub type: 3 pawls, 33 ratchets
recommended tire width: 28 - 55 mm
max. air pressure: 61 psi / 4.2 bar (for 28 mm), 41 psi / 2.8 bar (for 55 mm)
tubeless capable: yes
maximum system weight: 120 kg (rider, bike, clothing and possibly luggage)
Valve hole: Presta valve (SV)
Rim color: UD-silk gloss black, gray decals
Color spokes: black
Color hubs: black
Weight according to manufacturer: 1165g
Weight self-weighed:
Scope of delivery:
1x front wheel
1x rear wheel
1x spare spoke
1x tube of maintenance oil for textile spokes
PI ROPE Protective- and Care Product for Textile Spokes - Black Premium | 10mlavailable from stock