Cole C85 Lite Review
If you are interested in buying a set of wheels which get you noticed in heavy traffic and have excellent versatility, then Cole’s C85 Lite wheels may be the ideal purchase.
With enhanced aerodynamic features, the 85 mm rim depth offers as much for the racer as for those content to use them on a daily basis. One of the more striking features is the noise generated by the carbon clincher type rims, which can have its advantages on busy roads. But there is much more on offer with these wheels.
They have been constructed to withstand even the most difficult surfaces but offer the flexibility to allow excellent road racing capabilities.With its clincher variation, punctures can still be overcome by the more orthodox method.
Basically the wheel consists of a carbon high compression rim with double butted aero blade spokes comprising 16 on the front and 20 to the rear. An argument used by Cole, a company established in 2004, is that fitting these spokes allows for a more durable wheel where the spokes can self-align in the flanges on either side of the hub cylinder. These straight-pull spokes are said to be more advantageous than the more traditional J bend variety, which are more popular in the shops, as they their strength alleviates the need to use as many high tension straight spokes. This can be a great time saver on bike maintenance.
Another plus factor of these wheels is their reliability in braking. Cole have introduced their own manufactured brake blocks to complement other design features including a quick release mechanism, easily mounted valve extenders, rim tape for the spoke holes, cartridge style brake carriers and a padded wheel bag to allow for extra protection.
When riding a bike with the C85’s fitted there is no evidence of the rim weaving from side to side which not only impacts on the brake shoes but slows the bike. Acceleration with these wheels is excellent allowing for a general feel good factor in terms of bike riding.
At 1,865 grams the wheels are not as light as those with more traditional depth, but the improved aerodynamics enables speed to be more easily maintained once it has been built up. There has been some dialogue relating to the ability of the bike in handling crosswinds especially over rugged moorland areas. Although there can be a bit of movement, it is not really much in evidence and road handling ability is generally very steady even in strong gusts of wind.
At a recommended price of just below £1300 these C85 clinchers are not cheap, but for a good steady versatile ride they can be a money saver in the longer term. A few internet retailers may also have them available on special deals.
They can give your bike that very special look and the noise feature alone enables these wheels to be one of the safest sets around in all types of terrain.
Cole C85 Lite
Rating by Adam Samuel: stars
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Written by: Quatos