The bc original Flechtwerk 45 Evo Road Carbon Wheelset

When we presented the first iteration of Flechtwerk they spoke for themselves. Together with our partners, we released a product that we were extremely happy with. And we weren’t the only ones excited. You, our customers, went bananas for Flechtwerk. We didn’t expect such a good response and in turn couldn’t deliver as fast as y’all ordered. This time around, things are different.

Why change a winning team?

This year’s Flechtwerk has only been improved based on our experience with the first version. Of course, we have a larger number available and there are some small details, but overall the wheels have remained the same. Why fix what ain’t broken?

MG Components hubs

At the centre of the wheels, MG Components produced hubs keep things spinning. The bearings are adjustable, allowing you to fine tune the pre-load. The freehub is packed with a RAT 20-tooth ratchet ring that makes power transfer practically instant and gives off a unique sound.

DT Swiss spokes

We also stuck with the same spokes as last year, DT Swiss Aero Speed 1.8s. The nipples are still hidden in the rim, which keep the wheelset looking clean and improves Aerodynamics.

Munich Composites rim

The core of the Flechtwerk wheelset is the Made in Germany Munich Composites rims. To guarantee quality, a ‘Munich ID’ is assigned to every rim, allowing us to follow it back to the day it was braided. We also made a small change to the rim. Now, each one has a small hole that allows for water that might enter the wheelset to be spun out while riding. Unchanged, the reflective logos are placed under the clear coat.

True weight

This time around, the bc original Flechtwerk put on a few grams, at least on paper. After weighing a number of wheels, we came to the honest to god weight of 1420 g. Of course we could have used the slightly lighter weight of our small production wheels, but we want to be honest with y’all so that you know where we stand.

The build and quality control

To make sure that the wheels are of top quality, we check each and every component as well as the complete wheel multiple times with each step of the process being properly protocolled. The individual rims are given a visual check and their weight is proofed as well before we send them to our wheel builders. Of course, the rims also run through a strict quality control at the manufacturer with a focus on the brake track. This entire process guarantees a 100 % checked rim is sent to our builders.

When the built wheels arrive in house, each one is checked visually as well as measured for proper spoke tension and trueness before we release them for sale. This way we know that every wheel meets our strict quality standards.

Brake pads and accessories

When it comes to carbon rims, discussions about braking performance always get a little heated. After searching and searching the internet you’ll find varying ideas on what the best brake pads are for carbon, especially in wet conditions.

Overall, the braking performance of carbon rims won’t meet that of their aluminium brethren. The difference in the materials are just too great. However, with the right brake pads, carbon rims can be brought to a stop very well, even when wet.

To find these brake pads, we worked with the Swiss company, Swissstop. After various tests using carbon-ready versions from other manufactures, we came to the conclusion that both the Swissstop Black Prince as well as the Yellow King pads work best. To give you a chance to test which ones fit your braking style best, we have included a set of both pads. However, our experience has shown that riding the Yellow King in the front and the Black Prince in the back produce the highest braking performance. Also included with the Flechtwerk wheelset are quick releases, spare spokes, nipples and nipple washers.

The wheelset

Honestly, Flechtwerk is the top carbon wheel alternative to other large manufactures. With the small updates that we made to the current version, it has only improved from an already fantastic product. And at our price point, it’s hard to beat, especially considering the quality of the components used to build it. The bc original Flechtwerk is here and if you’re looking for carbon hoops, there really is no better option.