Fulcrum Racing 7 Review
Fulchrum Wheels were founded in 2004 and among their series of wheelsets, perhaps the Racing 7 are one of the more basic models, especially as they retail at only £175. They are ideal wheels for cyclists who are intent on touring or as an alternative for those easy training rides.
At a weight of 1850 grams they are fairly heavy and Fulchrum have added twice as many spokes to the right side of the rear wheel as to the left to create a greater balance. The rear spokes connect from the hub to the rim via an elbow bend, while at the front radial spokes allow the bike to perform more efficiently. This allows adequate stiffness in the front tyre and the ability to withstand any jarring at the rear.
The steel spokes seem quite durable with consistency high levels of stiffness and tension, and with holes in the spoke seats, tension can be adjusted.
Fulchrum have also provided a wear indicator on the rim to allow for constant monitoring. Other features include machined brake surfaces which allow for safe and steady braking in various road and weather conditions, and sealed cylindrical bearings containing high quality steel balls. This gives a good wheel spinning action and helps to reduce friction but on the downside loose ball bearings can be much smoother, and the cost of upgrading can be cheaper. On the plus side the fairly simple hub design allows for the bearings to be maintained and serviced much easier. This is particularly important for novice and touring bike riders who are more likely to buy these wheelsets.
On the drive side there is quite a large falange which helps with overall stiffness and the quick release aluminium lever and steel spine seem easy to use and resistant to wear and tear.
Out on the road, the wheels give a good feel, hold the road well and are more than adequate at climbing. They can be a slightly loud which has its advantages in heavy traffic, but it is their reaction to potholes which can be quite troublesome. Small to medium holes are handled with no problem, but larger versions can impact upon the trueness of the wheel in addition to giving the rider a fairly hefty jarring experience.
Another slight problem with these wheels is tyre replacement. This process seems to take longer than expected with standard wheels and may be particularly annoying to the novice.
Overall, these wheels may be heavy but for the price they are certainly value for money. The added attraction of a red anodised finish covering a good part of the rim and hub give the wheels a really sleek appearance, although the free stickers supplied can be detrimental to the entire look.
Fulcrum Racing 7
Rating by Adam Samuel: stars
Like This?
Written by: Quatos