Boyd Cycling is making waves in the cycling world by targeting riders in the UK and EU with its latest offering: the innovative Podium 36mm Carbon Disc SL wheelset, proudly manufactured in the USA. This significant move signals Boyd's aspirations to expand its presence across these regions, as the company has crafted this wheelset to serve as an all-in-one solution tailored for both modern road cyclists and those who ride off-road.
Having established itself since 2009, Boyd Cycling has maintained a strong commitment to producing most of its products domestically, and this expansion comes alongside a notable enhancement of its manufacturing capabilities within the United States.
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As part of its growth, Boyd is not only enhancing its well-known alloy rim production but is also venturing into carbon fiber manufacturing. The new Podium 36mm Carbon Disc SL wheelset boasts a cutting-edge carbon fiber rim design with a depth of 36mm and an internal width of 24mm, making it perfectly suited for tyres ranging from 28 to 38mm wide.
Boyd has utilized aerospace-grade T1000 carbon fiber in areas subjected to high stress, strategically placing high-modulus carbon fibers at various angles within the rim’s construction. This meticulous design contributes to an impressive impact resistance rating that exceeds 110 joules, which is more than two and a half times higher than the 40 joules minimum requirement set by the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale).
The wheels also feature multi-angle spoke hole reinforcement that helps distribute the forces from spoke tension in multiple directions. This innovative technique allows for higher and more stable spoke tension without unnecessarily increasing the weight of the wheelset.
In addition to the new carbon rims, Boyd has introduced the Grade 36 and Grade 54 hub platforms, with the Podium 36mm Carbon Disc SL utilizing the latter. These hubs offer an impressive engagement angle of 6.6 degrees. Weighing in at just 85 grams for the front and 185 grams for the rear, they are equipped with Enduro ABEC-5 bearings, ensuring excellent rolling performance and durability.
The price point for these advanced wheels is set at £1,860 / $2,100 / €2,150, placing them in the premium segment of the market.
But here's where it gets controversial: With such a hefty investment, are these wheels truly worth the price tag? What do you think about the balance between performance and cost in high-end cycling products? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
