Fulcrum – Italian made wheels
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Fulcrum wheels
RCUK got a sneak preview of the new Fulcrum range, which was launched this Autumn at EICMA (the Milan bike trade show). A closer look will tell you they have similar features to Campagnolo’s wheels, this is no accident as they are made by the Italian component maker. But they have taken many design features a step further. They will be distributed in the UK by Jim Walker and Co. so they will have technical and dealer back-up to match the quality of the product.
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Fulcrum 1
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Racing 1
This is the top of the line, featuring a 26mm double wall aluminum rim with 16 front and 21 rear aero aluminum spokes. These are laced to oversized aluminum hubs with adjustable high precision bearings. 10 speed version and in silver or black, as well as a version for tubs. They weigh 1570g per pair (no QR)
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new rim technology
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Front hub looks quite ‘Campag’
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Rear hub and aluminium spoking
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Ingenious lacing on the drive side
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Lightweight with a striking look
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Prices range from £159 to £599 for the 3 models in the ’05 range and although aimed at road bikes with Shimano cassettes, they are also available in Campagnolo fitting. The three wheeled range is very well priced and is a direct competitor for French wheel maestros Mavic, who have dominated the market for the past few years with their Ksyrium models. Indeed many European bike manufacturers believe this brand is set to make a serious challenge on the established market leader, and who are we to argue, they look the business…
The bad news is availability will be from January ’05. Should be worth the wait though, we will be testing a set just as soon as we can get some.
For a local Fulcrum dealer go here
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