Carbon wheels are arguably one of the finest and most expensive upgrades you can invest in for your mountain bike. I have personally ridden and competed with two of the most sought-after carbon wheelsets for cross-country and short travel trail bikes: the Roval Control 29 Carbon and Reserves 28 XC. The objective of both wheelsets is to shed weight from XC bikes while enhancing the quality of the ride and maintaining durability.
On paper, these wheelsets closely resemble each other. They possess similar constructions, comparable weights, and fall within the same price range. It is worth noting that both Reserve and Roval are affiliated with renowned brands in the cycling industry, with Reserve being associated with Santa Cruz and Roval being a house brand of Specialized. Consequently, these wheelsets are often found as stock equipment on numerous high-end models from both companies. Furthermore, their availability at competitive aftermarket prices sets them apart from brands solely focused on wheels and having a narrower OEM presence. The Reserve 28 XCs are priced at $1,600, while Roval’s Control 29 Carbon comes at a slightly lower cost of $1,350.
For more gear reviews, join Bicycling All Access
However, while looking good on paper is commendable, the true measure lies in their performance on the trail. How do these wheelsets truly compare in real-world scenarios?
The Devil is in the Details
When it comes to wheels, even the tiniest details can hold immense significance. Factors such as the type of spokes used, the number of spokes, and the lacing pattern can affect a wide range of aspects, including weight, ride quality, and the wheel’s stiffness under a rider’s weight. Therefore, it may seem like we are delving into intricacies, but when it comes to wheels, every single detail matters.
Dan Chabanov
Dan Chabanov
Both wheelsets incorporate DT Swiss 350 hubs and DT Competition Race spokes, which delight mechanics worldwide with their external nipples. This is particularly advantageous as it simplifies the process of truing the wheels and replacing spokes. Additionally, each wheelset features an asymmetric rim design that is flipped between the front and rear wheels, reducing the offset typically encountered at the hub. This design theory aims to enhance stiffness and durability. As expected, both wheelsets utilize a hookless rim design.
However, these resemblances are where the similarities largely cease. Roval implements a straight pull version of the DT Swiss 350 hub, equipped with 28 straight pull spokes per wheel, following a three-cross pattern. On the contrary, Reserve opted for the standard variant of the DT Swiss 350 hubs and employed 24 J-bend spokes in a two-cross lacing pattern for their wheels.
**28 Straight Pull Spokes Hold the Wheels in Place**
Dan ChabanovOnly 24 J-bend spokes support each Reserve wheel.
Dan ChabanovThe Internal Rim Width – Perfect for Cross Country Wheels
The internal rim widths of both the Reserves and the Rovals are appropriately modern for cross country wheels. The Reserves measure 28mm, while the Rovals measure 29mm.
Dan ChabanovRecommended Tire Size for Reserves and Rovals
Reserve recommends using tires between 2.2″ and 2.5″, while Roval states that their wheels will support tires ranging from 1.95″ to 2.6″.
**A Closer Look at the Roval Rim**
Upon closer inspection of the Roval rim, you will notice a larger than normal flat-top edge on the rim wall. This 4mm wide shelf is said to increase the force required to pinch flat a tire by 22% compared to a conventional rim shape. This feature proves beneficial if pinch flats are a common occurrence during your rides. Unfortunately, I cannot personally confirm this as I did not experience a pinch flat with either wheelset.
**The Design of Reserve 28 XC Rims**
From an external perspective, Reserve 28 XC rims boast a fairly traditional, rounded rim shape. However, internally, the rims feature a hookless design, and the rim bed is equipped with a step-in design that facilitates easier tubeless tire mounting. I can confirm that setting up tubeless with the Reserve rims and the Wolfpack tires I used for testing was an absolute breeze. Surprisingly, I did not encounter any difficulties setting up the Rovals either.
**Related Story: How to Find the Perfect Bike Tire Pressure**
If you are interested in learning more about maintaining the ideal bike tire pressure, check out this insightful article on bicycling.com: [link](https://www.bicycling.com/repair/a20004232/how-to-achieve-the-perfect-bike-tire-pressure/)
**Comparing the Weight**
When it comes to weight, the Rovals reign supreme, weighing in at 1453 grams with tubeless tape and valves.
The Weight of the Reserves
The Reserves, weighing slightly over 100 grams more (1557g with tape and valves), carry a slightly higher weight burden. Meanwhile, the Rovals have a total system weight limit of 275lbs, encompassing the combined weight of the bike, rider, and gear. This weight threshold should not be exceeded. In contrast, Reserve carbon wheels have no specified weight limit.
Comparison of Warranty Policies
Both Reserve and Roval brands provide a lifetime warranty to the original owner of their wheels. However, the policies differ in terms of their comprehensiveness and simplicity. Reserve’s policy is straightforward and all-encompassing, stating that they will repair or replace any damaged or destroyed rim made by Reserve Wheels.
On the other hand, Roval’s policy is slightly more convoluted. While they also offer a lifetime warranty, they explicitly specify that it covers defects in materials and workmanship when the wheels are used normally and in accordance with their published guidelines. Additionally, they have a section titled “**it Happens No Fault Crash Replacement” which outlines their policy for wheel replacement or repair within the first two years of ownership, in cases where the damage is not covered under warranty.
Impressions of Riding Experience
I had the opportunity to ride both wheelsets equipped with Wolfpack Race tires in the size of 29”x2.4”. Surprisingly, despite a 1mm difference in internal rim width, the tires measured the same width on both wheels. I maintained the same tire pressure and tested them on the Scott Spark RC World Cup.
Throughout approximately 150 trail miles on each wheelset, both the Roval and Reserve wheels demonstrated exceptional durability. They withstood the relentless assault of roots and rocks without losing their trueness or roundness. Minor scrapes marred their appearance, but overall, both wheelsets proved to be incredibly robust.
However, despite their similarities, there were subtle differences in the performance of these wheelsets on the trails. During consecutive rides, it became evident to me that the Reserves provided a smoother and more compliant ride compared to the Rovals. In contrast, the Rovals tended to feel slightly harsher. Initially, this led me to have reservations about the Rovals as they seemed to bounce erratically between rocks. However, lowering the tire pressure by a few PSI noticeably enhanced the Roval’s precision and made them more enjoyable to ride.
Dan Chabanov
Despite the Reserves being approximately 100 grams lighter than the Rovals, I frequently experienced a greater sense of speed both uphill and downhill with the Reserve wheels. Nevertheless, this was purely a subjective sensation, as my timed evaluations of the wheelsets displayed absolutely no tangible disparity. It turned out that my preference for the way the wheels felt played a more significant role rather than any measurable time savings on the trail.
This content is taken from a survey. You might have the chance to discover the identical content in a different format, or you could obtain additional information on their website.
My Assessment
The key takeaway is that both of these wheelsets are genuinely exceptional. However, there are still enough distinctions between them; subtle details that render them better suited to slightly different types of riders.
For riders with a larger body weight or those who put their equipment through rigorous use, the Reserves emerge as the clear victors. The absence of a weight limitation, coupled with a straightforward lifetime warranty policy for the original owner, makes them the ideal lightweight wheelset for riders who have previously shied away from carbon wheels due to durability concerns. Additionally, those who engage in races or embark on rougher courses or longer distances will also benefit from the more compliant feel provided by the Reserve wheels.
On the other hand, riders who prioritize achieving the lowest possible weight or those who base their decision on price will undoubtedly find it difficult to resist choosing the Rovals. With a 100-gram weight reduction and a $250 price difference, this wheelset is perfectly suited for riders in need of cross-country race performance or those who prefer a stiff and responsive feel.
Reserve 28|XC Wheelset
Reserve 28|XC Wheelset
Pros:
- A no-nonsense lifetime warranty
- Exceptional ride quality
Cons:
- Heavier by 100 grams compared to the Rovals
Pros:
- Lighter than many more expensive options
Cons:
- A harsher ride feel
- The “it happens warranty” only lasts for two years
