Reynolds

Solitude Road Wheelset - Clincher - 2013

We know that we're not blowing any minds when we say that both race-day and training-day play by different sets of rules. For example, your race wheels are typically rigid, uncomfortable, and most importantly, light as a feather. However, your training set focuses on placing a balance between durability and a relatively low weight. For this reason, the Reynolds Solitude Clincher Wheelset has been a top training choice for professional teams around the world, including our own Competitive Cyclist Racing Team.

The Solitude's 27mm rim depth makes these aluminum wheels just shallow enough to minimize rotational weight (around 1575 grams per pair), but just deep enough to cut through the air with relative efficiency. In terms of both compliance and rigidity, the aluminum composition creates an efficient interface between pedaling forces and the road. You'll find that the wheels spin up rather quickly and hold their speed well on both the flats and descents. And, speaking of descents, the 20mm external rim width of the Solitude creates a sturdy platform for cornering through technical parcours.

As for the build, there are 20 radially-laced front spokes and 24 rear spokes laced in a two-cross drive/radial non-drive pattern. And new for 2013, the nipples have been moved to the exterior of the rim, finally easing your home service and maintenance. As for the hubs, you'll find that Reynolds selected a lightweight, yet sturdy, aluminum hub set, with easily serviceable sealed cartridge bearings.

The Reynolds Solitude Clincher Wheelset is available in the color Black with White labels and as a 700c clincher. This wheelset is also available with either a Shimano- or Campagnolo-compatible freehub body, and yes, the Shimano freehub is compatible with 9-, 10-, and 11-speed cassettes. It's also worth noting that each wheelset includes a pair of Reynolds' Cr-Mo Black skewers and rim strips.