Mavic never stops researching better ways to transmit a rider’s energy into forward motion. Their latest innovation, the R-Sys wheelset, pioneers the use of “Tracomp” tubular carbon fiber spokes that are capable of withstanding a minimal amount of compression, in addition to the tension loading of a wire spoke. R-Sys wheels require a new hub design that is slightly wider to accommodate the visibly larger-diameter spokes, but use similar design and construction as Mavic’s race-proven Ksyrium ES wheels, including machine-profiled “Maxtal Alloy” rims.
Mavic’s R-Sys wheelset made its debut at the 2007 Tour de France, where it tasted victory in the ninth stage, with Columbian rider Maurizio Soler leading the peloton, over the hors categorie Col du Galibier to the finish. Mavic’s R-Sys wheelset may be be ordered with either a Campagnolo or Shimano (tested) compatible freehub, and is equipped with an integrated wheel magnet, a tool for spoke and bearing adjustments, as well as a Mavic-logo carrying bag and quick releases.
TECH
Mavic named their new hollow carbon fiber spoke technology Tracomp, to emphasize the special ability of the spoke to withstand both traction (tension) and compression loads. The hollow carbon fiber spokes are threaded into the rim and fastened solidly to the hub creating more strength, but at a lower build-tension than is necessary with a steel or aluminum wire-spoked wheel. Reportedly, tubular carbon spokes stiffened the wheelset, because the engineers found that they could design special lightweight hubs and rims due to the lower tension used in the building process.
Wire spokes react to lateral and radial loads by stretching, or unloading, neither of which happens to the same degree with the Tracomp carbon spokes. Mavic claims the R-Sys wheelset to be 30 percent stiffer than their Ksyrium ES model (RBA November/December issue). In addition, the R-Sys wheelset weighs in a noticeable 148 grams less (without quick releases) than the Ksyrium ES wheelset.
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| The front wheel uses an aluminum hub and is laced with 16 Tracomp spokes in a radial pattern. Ten of the rear wheel’s 20 spokes are radial-laced, tubular carbon. The drive-side spokes are two-cross aluminum Zicral—the same as Ksyrium ES use. Reportedly, Mavic felt that the extra width required for the larger diameter tubular carbon spokes would add unwanted dish to the drive side of the hub and, more importantly, using beefy aluminum spokes in this location would reduce the likelihood of disaster should the chain derail into the spokes.
Mavic machines the rear hub from aluminum with an extension on the drive side that houses a stainless steel insert that reinforces the freehub engagement pawls. Tracomp spokes push the Mavic’s outboard hub flange ten millimeters wider in the rear, and the front spacing is broadened by five millimeters. Both hubs roll on extremely smooth, adjustable, sealed bearings, and a wrench is supplied to keep them in perfect tune. The Maxtal alloy rims are formed and welded and use a similar threaded spoke interface as the time-proven Ksyrium series. Likewise, the inner rim surface is machined to reduce weight and the outer surfaces are smoothed for consistent braking. Knock off the weight of rim strips, because, like Ksyriums, R-Sys rims are not drilled through the rim’s inner web. This feature also makes for easier and more consistent tire changes—most tires can be mounted without tools.
RBA SAYS
We put Mavic R-Sys through the paces to see how they measured up to the tall benchmark set by the Ksyrium ES, and are happy to report that the new wheels deliver. R-Sys wheels are 148 grams lighter, feel stiffer in acceleration and track with utmost precision. Quick acceleration, either seated or standing, is met with instant response. Road-holding capability is remarkable, as they tracked securely around corners while descending. Mavic is known for outfitting its wheels with great bearings, and once again, we were not disappointed. As fast as the R-Sys wheels roll, one must ask, however, if the wider, carbon spokes create more wind drag than they should, as they put four times as much surface area into the breeze. Mavic, after all, is a leader in aero-spoke technology. That said, we like ’em—and so will anyone searching for a no-compromise set of clincher racing wheels with the unmistakable Mavic profile.
Price: $1399
Weight: 1484 grams
Contact: www.mavic.com
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