As a passionate gran fondo and ultra race cyclist, every detail of my gear is crucial to my performance and enjoyment of the sport. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my experience with and review of my Btlos carbon wheelset. For me, the quest for the perfect ride is not just about speed. It’s about the harmony between rider and machine. And let’s be honest, as a self-confessed weight weenie. I’m always on the hunt for ways to shave off grams without sacrificing quality.
Who is Btlos?
Let me first start with a a short Btlos company introduction before starting my actual Btlos Carbon Wheelset review. So you know what we are talking about 😊Btlos or “Beyond The Limits of Self”.
Btlos is a beacon of innovation in the cycling world, particularly renowned for their premium carbon rims and wheels. Founded on the principle that cyclists shouldn’t have to choose between quality, service, or price, Btlos strives to deliver all three. The company is located in the Chinese city Xiamen. It’s no wonder that upon seeing a bike adorned with Btlos wheels, I was captivated by their aesthetic appeal and the promise of a superior ride experience. Time to test! Look good, ride good, feel good…
Btlos Carbon Wheelset review: Customer service and website
When browsing the Internet I found several reviews in which Btlos has been receiving accolades for their exceptional customer service and user-friendly website. Upon contacting the company myself, I can only highlight the responsiveness and helpfulness of the Btlos team when addressing inquiries.
Besides I am also praising the ease of navigating their website, making the shopping experience smooth and enjoyable. With a variety of customization options available, Btlos ensures that each customer’s needs are met with precision and care. Browsing their website is a walk in the park experience! Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the positive feedback from users. So whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to the sport, Btlos seems to go the extra mile to ensure that your experience is nothing short of excellent.
Btlos Carbon Wheelset review : pros and cons
Pros
- Price-quality: unbeatable (see comparison)
- No customs duties for Europe / Minimal customs duties for US, Canada and Australia
- Reliable brand partners like DT Swiss, Shimano and Novatec
- Customize your own wheels and decals
- Warranty of 3.5 years (premium series)/1.5 years (standard series)
- Responsive customer service
- Renowned Research & Development department
Cons
- No long-term experience yet (only +/ 10 rides)
- The company is located in China so the warranty process or any delivery might take a bit longer.
It’s not all about the weight
When it comes to wheelsets, the balance between durability, weight, and cost is a delicate dance. My specialized tarmac SL8 S-works, tipping the scales at a mere 6.75 kg, is a testament to my dedication to this balance. It’s not just about having a light bike; it’s about having a bike that responds. One that feels like an extension of myself when I’m racing against the clock or the peloton. An important part of my Btlos Carbon Wheelset review
That’s where Btlos comes in. Discovering their 55 mm high carbon road wheels was a game-changer. These wheels are not just light. They are meticulously crafted to offer the stability and reliability I need when I’m pushing my limits. The aerodynamic design means I’m not just saving watts! I’m slicing through the air with a precision that can only come from high-quality engineering.
But what truly sets Btlos apart for me is the value. High-quality carbon wheelsets can come with a hefty price tag, but Btlos has managed to offer affordability without compromising on performance. It’s rare to find a company that aligns so closely with my values as a cyclist – where every product feels like it’s made with a rider’s heart and soul in mind.
To back up my opinion, I made a comparison of some similar carbon wheels. I chose wheels from major brands with the same rim height. The price, however, is another story.
Btlos Carbon Wheelset review: Innovation and certification
As always, I was a bit hesitant about the quality of the carbon wheels. So far I have made about 10 rides on them and I must say…. They rock like a beast. And the sound is sick! Like a jet turbine, I am loving it.
Btlos Innovations
Btlos is revolutionizing the cycling world with their cutting-edge carbon wheelset technologies. Their “Coating Free” process utilizes high-quality carbon fiber and a specially formulated epoxy, resulting in rims that emerge from the mold without any blemishes or defects, thus eliminating the need for additional painting or coating. This not only saves weight but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the wheels. Btlos has also mastered the “Smooth Inside Wall” technology, which employs proprietary high-pressure bladders and solid silicone forms to create rims with virtually no voids and perfectly smooth walls, both inside and out. This meticulous process ensures the rims are truer, lighter, stronger, and more durable.
Moreover, Btlos’s innovation extends to the “Graphene Special Braking Surface,” which incorporates graphene to boost braking power by 50% in all conditions while keeping heat build-up below 150 degrees. This leads to a stronger brake track and improved performance, especially in wet conditions and during long descents. They also offer a “Super High TG Braking Surface” with exceptional heat resistance, ensuring the rims can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees without losing rigidity. These technological advancements, combined with their “One-Piece Molding” technique, ensure that Btlos wheelsets are not only high-performing but also set a new standard for durability and reliability in the cycling industry.
Btlos Certifications
But Btlos wheelsets are not only renowned for their innovative technologies and rigorous testing but also for the prestigious certifications they have earned, reflecting their commitment to quality and performance.
One of the most notable certifications is the UCI approval, which signifies that Btlos wheelsets meet the stringent standards set by the Union Cycliste Internationale for use in professional racing events. This certification is a testament to the wheelsets’ durability, safety, and performance under the most demanding conditions.
In addition to UCI certification, Btlos wheelsets undergo extensive in-house testing to ensure they exceed industry standards. While specific certifications beyond UCI are not detailed, the company’s adherence to rigorous testing protocols suggests a level of quality that aligns with international standards.
The company’s dedication to excellence is further demonstrated by their compliance with ISO standards. These are a series of quality management principles ensuring consistency and improvement within various industries. By aligning with these standards, Btlos ensures that their manufacturing processes yield products that are safe, reliable, and of the highest quality.
Moreover, customer testimonials and reviews across cycling forums and communities often highlight the exceptional quality and performance of Btlos wheelsets, serving as an informal yet powerful endorsement of the brand’s reputation in the market.
BTLOS Carbon wheels vs DT Swiss, Vision, Roval, Fast Forward and Scope
When it comes to choosing the right carbon wheels, cyclists are often faced with a plethora of options. Each of them claims to offer the best performance and value. Besides my new Btlos carbon wheelset, I own a pair of Roval Rapide CL II wheels, a pair of Scope R5 wheels and some DT Swiss wheels. So it makes me the perfect person to do an honest comparison. However, the Btlos WRC-55 carbon wheels stand out from the crowd for several compelling reasons.
Firstly, their weight advantage is undeniable. At just 1537 grams, these wheels are significantly lighter than many of their competitors, such as the DT Swiss ARC1400 Dicut DB 50, which weighs in at 1552 grams and costs a hefty 2049 euros. This weight saving translates directly into faster acceleration and easier climbing. It makes the WRC-55s an excellent choice for riders looking to shave seconds off their times.
Moreover, the Btlos WRC-55 wheels are UCI approved. This means they meet the rigorous standards set by the Union Cycliste Internationale for use in professional racing. This approval is a testament to their quality and performance. It ensures that they can withstand the demands of the highest levels of competition. In contrast, not all wheelsets on the market carry this prestigious certification, which can be a deal-breaker for competitive cyclists.
Btlos price comparison
Price is another area where the WRC-55s shine. With a price tag of just around 661 euros, they are up to three times more affordable than some of their counterparts, offering exceptional value for money. For instance, the Roval Rapide CL II, while only slightly heavier at 1590 grams, will set you back 950 euros. Similarly, the Scope R5, with its 57 mm rims and 1675 grams weight, has a price of 1498 euros, more than double the cost of the WR-55s.
The comparison becomes even more stark when looking at other models in the market. The Fast Forward Ryot55 FCC, with a similar rim depth and a weight of 1700 grams, is nearly three times the price at 1499 euros. The Vision Metron 55 SL 6B Disc also falls short in the value department, weighing 1540 grams with a price tag of 1929 euros.
In summary, the Btlos WRC-55 carbon wheels offer a remarkable combination of lightness, strength, and affordability. Their UCI approval further solidifies their position as a top choice for both amateur and professional cyclists. When compared to other brands, the WR-55s provide superior performance without the premium price. It makes them the best choice for riders who demand the best value for their investment. Whether you’re sprinting on the flats, attacking on the climbs, or racing against the clock, the WRC-55s are designed to help you achieve your cycling goals. With such a compelling blend of features, it’s clear why the Btlos WRC-55 carbon wheels are a cut above the rest and are my number one choice!
Btlos Carbon Wheelset review: conclusion
So, as I prepare for my next gran fondo or ultra race, I do so with the confidence that my Btlos wheelsets will carry me to the finish line. They’re more than just wheels. They’re a declaration of my commitment to the sport, a reflection of my journey as a cyclist, and a partner in the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether I’m climbing steep hills or sprinting on flat terrain, I know that my Btlos wheels are there, propelling me forward, one exhilarating pedal stroke at a time. I hope this personal Btlos Carbon Wheelset review will help you to make the right choice. Any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.
In the end, it’s not just about the bike or the wheels; it’s about the joy of cycling. It’s about the rush of the wind, the camaraderie of the peloton, and the personal victories achieved with every ride. Btlos understands this, and that’s why I chose them.
