Originally Posted by
kl25
Hi everyone,
New here and a complete novice to bike maintenance / modifications. Recently got my hands on a used Helix after eying it for a long time.
I am looking for some easy ways to cut weight. One of which is changing the wheelset and tires. On Helix's website, there are recommendations for this set of rims and tires that can be ran tubeless. I'd also love to get a set of tires that has lower rolling resistance.
As far as I can see, this would mean I'd also have to purchase spokes, front and rear hubs to have this wheelset built (or can i use the same front and rear hub?)...I would also need to make some adjustments to run those tires tubeless.
All of this require a bike shop to build from the grounds up.
I am wondering if there are pre made wheelsets that are similar in weight which would make this weight cut process easier?
Thanks all.
Wheel Angel in Singapore offer wheel sets for Helix:
https://www.wheelangel.com/products/...ndustries-hubs. It’s not clear if they have their own source for the front hubs, you may have to send them yours.
Speed Mini Cycle offer a 507x30 carbon rim:
https://www.speedminicycle.com/mini-...rbon-rims.html
I'm not sure if either of the above options are suitable for tubeless tyres, you would need to check.
It looks like you’re located in Canada, so you may find it easier to obtain the Stans no tubes rims which Helix uses and which obviously are suitable for tubeless tyres:
https://www.notubes.com/crest-mk4-rim
There’s no reason why you can’t re-use the rear hub as well as long as you can obtain a rim drilled for 28 spokes, however changing the hub provides another opportunity to reduce weight.
One point to note, I believe the Crest Mk4 rim continues to be the lightest 507 rim available (323g) regardless of the material they’re made from. The SMC rim above is listed at 380g on their webpage.
Helix claim their Custom Ultralight tyre has 20% less rolling resistance than the Kenda Kwest tyre fitted to the standard bikes, so this may be your only option.