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fisherman76
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Planet X 50 mm Carbon Clinchers review

  • Price Paid:$599.00
  • User rating:
    (4.5)
  • Would buy again from this company: Yes
  • Used product for: 1 months
  • # of logged workouts:

"Really high marks. I didn't have any predispositions or expectations with PX, and was definitely nervous about being the (seemingly) first to buy them stateside, but I'm an unofficial salesman for them moving forward. As far as the tech- designs like this (conical fairing) are not going to take half an hour off your split, but you already knew that. Wheels make a difference, but not a monumental one. Nothing replaces engine work. But for the small boost it does provide and the cosmetic appeal, I felt well served. Excellent wheels."fisherman76

(5)

Ease of installation

No issues, the cassette went on smoothly.

(5)

Ease of use

It's a wheel, so rolling is what it does, and it rolls.

(4)

Quality of Construction

I was a little concerned being a guinea pig on these, but my fears were completely unfounded. The carbon work is top rate, and the joins to the rim are as professional as anything else out there. Was trued out of the box, which is good since I couldn't see getting the tape off easily! It's a glossy finish, which for me isn't quite as sexy looking as matte, but that's all I can ding it for.

(5)

Fit

Doesn't really apply, but hey, it fits.

(5)

Comfort

NICE. I didn't notice a reduction in road buzz, but didn't expect to. However, I did expect a smoother ride at higher speeds, and I was not disappointed.

(3)

Adjustability

If I ever have to get at the spokes, it's going to be a serious pain in the keyster. That tape is hard core stiff and won't come off without a fight.

(4)

Durability

These are going to be my everyday wheels, and I see them holding up just fine. The carbon is non-structural, so I don't expect the durability to be any different than a regular open wheel. Spokes are of good quality, and as an extra, since there are no decals on the fairing, there's nothing to wear off or get dirty! The point deduction is for the spokes again - at this price point it's almost more worth it to get another pair than to try to get the tape off and replace a spoke!

(5)

Value

Stunning, where's the 6/5? I don't know how long the $100 off will last (full price is listed as $699 USD), but this is almost half the price of a Mavic cosmic carbone, which is almost exactly the same thing. In fact the only difference is the far ends of the spokes (Mavics are completely bladed, the X's are bladed until the ends, which taper to rounded).

(4)

Appearance

I miss decals, and I'd be proud to fly the PX flag. That said, they look hot on the bike, and it looks ready for speed. I like the dark red hubs. They do NOT look as cool as the big makers though. I don't care, but you might.

(5)

Customer Service

I made an inquiry prior to purchase about the recommended weight (I'm 190 lbs, the wheels are good up to 225 apparently) and received an email within an hour. Pretty good!

(5)

Performance

I can't tell you what 'doesn't spin up well' or 'does spin up well' means, as it doesn't feel different climbing or accelerating than any other wheel, but once I reached cruising speed, I was holding it with less effort. These wheels are FAST. The freewheel is a bit loud/clicky (my LBS wrench said it's a reminder to get back to work!) but I had the sensation of 'feeling the tires on the road' more on these wheels. In other words I really felt that 100% of my output was being transferred to making these things roll, and none of it was wasted. Nice. The point deduction is for the aero weenies - no, this is not the latest in technology as far as aero shaping. In fact, it's probably about 5 year old technology. Is it more aero than an open wheel? Yes. Less aero than a Zipp firecrest? No. Did I feel crosswinds? Yes, but not awfully so, in fact I was impressed. I wish I could give them an extra point for the aluminum braking (no pad changing! better braking! no wear and tear) but they didn't invent that nor refine it. Up to you to like.

Strengths

As advertised - quality components, quality construction, came quickly. Unbelievable - must be best - value for a carbon clincher wheelset out there.

Weakness

Not the highest tech out there, but that may not matter to you.

Buyers club50 mm Carbon Clinchers
  • 2 people use
  • 33 workouts logged
  • 1003.76 miles / 56.01 hours logged