Revel RW30 Gen 2 Wheels

Similar to other versions of rims made by CSS, the RW30 rims are made of thermoplastic carbon fiber, rather than the more common thermoset construction used by other carbon rim manufacturers. Since David Golay recently summarized the differences between the two types of carbon fiber construction in our First Look of the Forge+Bond 30 EM wheels, I will just quote him here:

“In short, carbon fiber parts of either sort are comprised of two main components: the carbon fibers themselves and some form of “matrix” that holds them together, makes them rigid, and gives the part structure. Thermoset parts use epoxy for the matrix and undergo a chemical reaction in the curing process, whereby the epoxy solidifies; thermoplastic parts use a matrix that can be melted and re-solidified — theoretically infinitely — which, among other things, means that thermoplastic parts can be recycled.”

There are some limitations to the recyclability of thermoplastic composites, as it requires grinding up the used parts and re-molding them into something new. This leads to some degradation of the fibers and a loss of control over fiber orientation in the recycled product. But that’s still a massive improvement over what is currently possible with thermoset composites, which can’t readily be recycled. Revel also claims that their thermoplastic construction makes for a quieter and more dampened ride than thermoset composites can achieve.

The RW30 wheels are optimized for 28-hole drilling, in 29’’ diameter only (unlike the prior-generation RW30, which was available in a 27.5’’ diameter as well). As the name suggests, these rims are 30 mm wide internally, with a 38 mm external width. It’s worth noting that the second-gen RW30 has a thicker 4 mm bead wall with the goal of increasing durability. Revel says these rims suit tires from 2.3’’ to 2.6’’ wide, and are meant for use on Trail and Enduro bikes with 130–160 mm of travel.