Product Review by PBE Squad member, Carrie Greif
Carrie Greif here to share my experience riding I9 wheels.
If you’re an avid mountain biking gearhead gravel junkie, you’ve heard of I9 wheels and you know they’re amazing. But if you’re like me, and one of the rare cyclists that wants maximize speed without spending countless hours and resources pondering the great manufacturers of cycling components, let me tell you about these wheels. Holy cow. My first time riding the Ultralite 250 CX I was the fastest woman at Grinduro, PA. The wheels played a big part in my success. It was a difficult course to say the least. But I fully trusted the capability and durability of these wheels. They did not disappoint.
What makes them gamechangers? To start, they are manufactured and handbuilt in Asheville, NC. This commitment to craftsmanship is just one of the ways they ensure the wheels are going to work without question. These wheels are also incredibly light 1420g ldespite the fact that they are alloy. On climbs, I noticed how light and balanced the wheels felt helping with both momentum and stability.
I not only got the 700c wheels, I also bought the 650bs because as a Pennsylvania gravel girl I have an affinity for chunky terrain. Also, the quick responsive movement on the bike with the 650bs is unmatched. I often ride my gravel bike on mountain bike trails and the turning radius with 650bs is amazing.
When I was shopping for wheels I wanted to find something light and reliable. But the style of the wheel was not really important to me. When I was putting in my order I9 suggested I consider colored hubs and endcaps. I was hesitant to get too flashy but I am so glad I went with the purple hubs and nipples. When people hear that I9 WOOOOOSH their heads turn and it is always awesome to get to share the story of my bike with them.
If you want to go fast, have reliable gear and look cool then you should consider getting I9 wheels.