Wheelworks.co.nz, Handbuilt wheels by Tristan Thomas

Hope Pro2 singlespeed hubs in Gunmetal colour: The Pro2T (the “T” is for “Trials”) uses two pairs of offset pawls to double the standard Pro2 hub’s engagement points from 24 to 48 – this also doubles the noise while coasting :-). The hub body underwent a shape change for mid 2008 because Hope found a very small percentage of shells failed under trials use – the bulge at the freehub side is the new version. A standard Pro2 uses an aluminium freehub body whereas the trials / singlespeed version is steel to reduce marring from the cogs.

DT Swiss Competition black spokes and black brass nipples. Spoke stiffness is important on 29er wheels because of the larger diameter of the rim. The Competition is double-butted with a 2.0mm head and thread and a 1.8mm center section. Brass nipples (in hard-to-get black) add some long term durability.

Stan’s ZTR Arch 29er rims are one of the lightest mountain bike rims available but their width and profile makes them remarkably stiff. They’re ability to accept either standard innertube or tubeless setups makes them very versatile.

This added up to a 1977g wheelset which is stiff enough for out of the saddle singlespeed riding yet light enough to feel quick and smooth on the trail.