Choosing the right wheelset can significantly impact your mountain biking experience, influencing performance, durability, and overall ride quality. In this head-to-head review, we’re pitting two distinct wheelsets against each other—the We Are One Union/Industry Nine Hydra Custom Wheelset and the Race Face AR 30 with DT Swiss 370 Hubs Wheelset. These wheelsets cater to different riding styles and preferences. Let’s dive into the details and see how they stack up.
We Are One Union/Industry Nine Hydra Custom Wheelset:
Performance: The We Are One Union/Industry Nine Hydra wheelset is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to aggressive riding styles. Its combination of a robust carbon rim, known for its durability, and Industry Nine’s Hydra hubs, renowned for lightning-fast engagement with 690 points of contact, delivers exceptional performance. This wheelset excels in tackling challenging terrains, offering rapid power transfer, and maintaining control in demanding situations.
Durability: Durability is where the Union/Industry Nine wheelset truly shines. The carbon rim is engineered to withstand heavy impacts and harsh conditions, making it ideal for aggressive enduro and downhill riding. Industry Nine’s Hydra hubs are built to last, ensuring longevity in challenging off-road environments.
Weight: While it might not be the absolute lightest option on the market, the We Are One Union/Industry Nine wheelset offers a competitive weight-to-durability ratio. Its weight is justified by the exceptional performance and resilience it brings to the table.
Compatibility: With various rim sizes and configurations available, the Union/Industry Nine wheelset can accommodate a wide range of tire widths and bike setups, providing flexibility for riders with different preferences.
Cost: Custom wheelsets like this one can vary in price depending on the components chosen. They generally fall into the higher price range due to their quality and customization options.
Race Face AR 30 with DT Swiss 370 Hubs Wheelset:
Performance: The Race Face AR 30/DT Swiss 370 wheelset is engineered for versatility. It performs admirably across different riding styles, from cross-country to trail. The AR 30 rims provide a good balance of durability and performance, while the DT Swiss 370 hubs offer reliable engagement, ensuring efficient power transfer.
Durability: While not as robust as a carbon rim, the aluminum AR 30 rims are still built to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures. The DT Swiss 370 hubs are known for their durability in a variety of riding conditions.
Weight: The aluminum construction of the AR 30 rims might result in slightly more weight compared to carbon alternatives. However, the weight difference is often negligible for most riders and terrain types.
Compatibility: Similar to the Union/Industry Nine wheelset, the Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset offers various rim sizes and can accommodate a range of tire widths, providing versatility in bike setup.
Cost: This wheelset typically falls into the mid-range price category, making it more budget-friendly compared to high-end carbon options. It represents a great value proposition for riders seeking good performance without the premium price tag.
Comparison:
- Riding Style: The We Are One/Industry Nine wheelset is tailored for aggressive riding styles, offering exceptional durability and rapid engagement. The Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset is versatile and suits a broader range of riding styles, making it an ideal choice for cross-country and trail enthusiasts.
- Durability: The We Are One/Industry Nine wheelset holds the upper hand in terms of durability, thanks to its carbon rim’s resilience to heavy impacts. The Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset is still durable for its intended purposes but may not withstand the same level of abuse.
- Weight: The We Are One/Industry Nine wheelset may be slightly lighter, appealing to riders focused on optimizing their climbing performance. The Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset is slightly heavier but offers good overall versatility.
- Compatibility: Both wheelsets provide various rim sizes and configurations, allowing for flexibility in tire choice and bike setup.
- Cost: The Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset is generally more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for riders seeking good performance without a premium price. The We Are One/Industry Nine wheelset falls into the higher price range due to its customization and high-quality components.
Conclusion:
Choosing between the We Are One Union/Industry Nine Hydra Custom Wheelset and the Race Face AR 30 with DT Swiss 370 Hubs Wheelset hinges on your riding style, budget, and performance priorities. If you’re an aggressive rider who demands durability and rapid engagement, the Union/Industry Nine wheelset is an excellent choice. For versatility, good performance, and a more budget-friendly option, the Race Face/DT Swiss wheelset provides solid value across various riding styles. Ultimately, your choice should align with your riding needs, whether you’re seeking the pinnacle of performance or a versatile wheelset that offers great value for a range of terrain.