With an industry-wide switch to disc brakes, there's no longer motivation on wheel manufacturers to produce rims that are both load-bearing and include heat friction brake surfaces. Like all things in cycling, wheel design is constantly evolving. New technologies and techniques are being sought to seek the ultimate advantage over the opposition. But, what advantages are there to upgrading your bike wheels?

• Weight - Expect an entry-level set of alloy wheels to weigh somewhere in the region of approximately 2kg. Upgrading to lightweight alloy or carbon wheels can save you as much as half a kilo or more! As a result of this weight reduction, acceleration is much improved
• Stiffness - Premium quality wheels use more advanced construction techniques and higher-grade materials to produce wheels with greater structural rigidity. Increasing their stiffness results in a bike with better handling and agility. This is especially true when cornering – the forces applied to the wheels are at their most extreme. It enables the power to be laid down much more efficiently, having a dramatic effect when giving your all on those out-of-the-saddle efforts (climbing and sprinting)
• Aerodynamics - Wheels with a deeper rim profile carve through the air more efficiently, which translates into less drag and more speed
• Durability - The higher the cost of a wheelset, the better the quality of materials. High-end wheelsets will usually include high-grade stainless steel bearings. At the top end of the spectrum, ceramic bearings may also be used to reduce friction and improve longevity. The better the quality of the bearings, the less maintenance is required to keep them in tip-top condition

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned veteran, the potential to ride faster, for less effort and reduce fatigue over long distances seems too good an opportunity to refuse: who doesn't want free speed?

Wheels are the best single-component performance upgrade you could apply to your bike

Upgrade Your Existing Wheelset

Upgrading your wheelset in cycling can often be a more cost-effective and impactful improvement than getting a new bike. Here are several reasons why:

• Performance Gains – a lighter wheelset means a weight reduction and less drag, making it easier to accelerate and climb hills
• More Cost Effective – Upgrading wheels is typically less expensive than purchasing an entirely new bike. High-performance wheels can provide significant gains at a fraction of the cost of a new bike
• Customisation – Swapping wheelsets allows you to tailor your bike to specific riding conditions or preferences, such as choosing different wheels for road racing, time trials, or off-road cycling
• Incremental Improvement – Upgrading components like the wheelset allows for incremental improvements, letting you optimise specific aspects of your bike gradually rather than making a single, large investment
• Compatibility and Fit – If your current bike fits you well and meets your needs in terms of frame geometry and overall comfort, upgrading the wheelset can enhance performance without the risk of losing the perfect fit and comfort you have with your current setup
• Technology and Material Advancements – Advances in wheel technology, such as wider rims, better braking surfaces, and tubeless setups, can significantly improve ride quality and performance. These advancements can often be integrated into your existing bike with a wheel upgrade
• Immediate Impact – The wheelset is a critical component affecting the bike's handling, speed, and ride quality. Upgrading wheels often yields an immediate and noticeable improvement in how the bike feels and performs

Focusing on upgrading your wheelset can target the most critical aspects of cycling performance and enjoyment, providing a high return on investment.

Upgrade A New Bike Wheelset

Purchasing a new bike can be a big investment. That’s why at Ribble, we can customise your new bike wheels at the point of purchase – so that it’s just the way you like it.

ENDURANCE SL R DISC - ENTHUSIAST

Already has: MAVIC COSMIC S 42 CARBON WHEELS

Engineered for riders seeking the perfect balance between weight, aerodynamics, and speed. Their minimal drag and low inertia design allows you to accelerate and climb faster, while holding higher speeds for longer. Paired with Pirelli P Zero Road tyres, to balance performance with durability, for both reliability and grip. The carcass features excellent puncture resistance while keeping weight impressively low.

Upgrade to: ZIPP 303 FIRECREST CARBON

Lightweight, yet strong and resilient; the 303's feature an ultra-wide 25mm rim profile and 40mm rim depth to blend aerodynamic performance and wider tyre profiles without compromise. Paired with Pirelli's P Zero Race tyre, which is designed for high performance results. Puncture resistant, without impacting the weight of the tyre, and able to maintain grip in both wet and dry conditions, this tyre is the choice of the pro-peloton.

Shop the ENDURANCE SL R DISC - ENTHUSIAST BIKE

CGR AL - ENTHUSIAST - SHIMANO 105 12-SPEED

Already has: MAVIC AKSIUM ALLOY

An impressive strength-to-weight ratio and durable construction that is paired with Schwalbe G-One Tyres 40mm in a tan wall design, these multi-purpose gravel tyres are suited to everything from hidden dirt tracks to rapid road rides.

Upgrade to: MAVIC COSMIC S CARBON

Accelerate and climb faster, holding speeds you could never have imagined with a high-performance wheelset that delivers the perfect balance of weight, aerodynamics, and efficiency. Mavic Cosmic S wheels deliver more speed and control for the best on-bike experience. Paired with multi-purpose Schwalbe G-One 40mm tyres in a tan wall design, these tyres are suited to everything from hidden dirt tracks to rapid road rides.

• Rim Profile: 42mm Depth. 21mm Internal Diameter
• Axle Spacing: 12x100F/12x142R
• Freehub: Shimano 10,11, & Compatible 12-Speed Cassettes
• Disc Fitting: Centre Lock
• Tubeless Compatible: Yes
• Max. Load: 120 kg
• Recommended Tyre Size: 25mm - 64mm
• Weight: 745g Front. 850g Rear. 1595g Total

Shop the CGR AL - ENTHUSIAST - SHIMANO 105 12-SPEED BIKE

Ready To Transform Your Ride?

Upgrading your bike wheels is one of the best investments you can make to enhance your cycling experience. Whether it’s speed, durability, or a smoother ride, the right set of wheels can make all the difference. Don't settle for less – feel the difference in every pedal stroke.

Upgrade Your Wheels Now!

Ride faster, ride smoother, ride better. Your perfect wheels await!

Shop customisable bikes.