Rolf Prima
Hand-made Bicycle Wheels (MSRP dependent on model and options)

They say if you want to improve the performance of your bike, you’ll get the biggest bang-for-the-buck by upgrading the wheels.

This is a because a lighter set of wheels will spin up more quickly, a stiffer set of wheels will transfer more power to the pavement, and a more aerodynamic set of wheels will cut through the air more easily and with less effort. The best wheels excel in all three areas.

You may recognize Rolf wheels from Trek bikes manufactured in the early 2000s. They are easy to spot due to their distinctive side-by-side spoke lacing patterns.

Since Trek and Rolf parted ways, Rolf Prima has continued to quietly manufacture kick-ass wheels in Eugene, Oregon. Everything is built by hand, they use proven Enduro bearings in their CNC-machined hubs. Their tubeless-ready rims utilize technology developed by the tubeless gurus at Stan’s No-Tubes. And to this day, they employ their unique spoke lacing patterns, which they claim yield a lighter, more aerodynamic and yet stronger and more durable wheel.

According to my chat with one of their engineers at Interbike, the secret lies with proper spoke tension as well as their “Paired Spoke Technology,” which “…neutralizes the left and right outward pulling forces allowing us to build true wheels on lighter rims with fewer spokes. Fewer spokes and lighter rims help create increased aerodynamics and faster performing wheels.” To put it another way, Rolf Prima claims their methods allow them to make a wheel that is equally strong to comparable products, while using less material...ultimately yielding a lighter and better performing product.

Another advantage of Rolf Prima is that they offer a very wide range of wheels, tailored specifically to rider weight and riding style. This is in sharp contrast to the “one size fits all” approach of many wheel manufacturers. Because of this, we’re not recommending any specific Rolf Prima model. Instead we’d suggest using their “Wheel Advisor,” which walks you through the selection process to find the perfect set of wheels for you.

Rolf Prima wheels are available for all major riding disciplines, in both carbon and aluminum, and usually with tubular, clincher and tubeless-ready clincher variations. As an added plus, they don't include crazy proprietary components like a lot of "wheel systems" have, making them easier to fix. Lastly, they generally cost a few hundred bucks less than comparable wheels from other premium brands...money you can spend on race registration or entry fees!

Purchase Information:
www.rolfprima.com

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