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#Crankbrothers #Synthesis2 #MTBWheels #GravityReady #EnduroRiding #DHWheels #eMTB #LifetimeWarranty #MountainBiking #AluminumRims #TrailTough #BikeTech #RideMoreWorryLess #MTBGear #ShredHard
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Crankbrothers Synthesis 2.0 Alloy Mountain Wheels: A Comprehensive Overview
Crankbrothers has unveiled its new Synthesis 2.0 Alloy mountain bike wheels, offering a range of gravity-ready options tailored for enduro, eMTB, and downhill riding. This lineup includes both complete wheelsets and standalone rims, all featuring a lifetime rim warranty that covers crash damage and dents severe enough to prevent a tire seal—effectively catering to aggressive riding and racing without limitations. This review dives into the features, performance, and value of these wheels based on extensive testing.
Key Highlights of Synthesis 2.0 Alloy Wheels
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Discipline-Specific Tuning
The Synthesis 2.0 Alloy wheels are designed with a tuned front and rear system to balance strength, compliance, and durability across different mountain biking disciplines. Key features include:- Enduro Wheels: Optimized for aggressive trail riding and racing, with a compliant front wheel for improved grip and precision over rocks and roots, and a stiff rear wheel for stability under cornering loads.
- eMTB Wheels: Built to handle the demands of pedal-assist mountain biking, offering control and durability through similar front compliance and rear stiffness.
- DH Wheels: Purpose-built for downhill racing, featuring a compliant front wheel for enhanced grip in technical terrain and a stiff rear wheel for high-speed stability and impact resistance.
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Reinforced 6069 Aluminum Rims
All wheels feature 6069 aluminum rims, which provide superior tensile, yield, fatigue, and shear strength compared to standard alloys. These rims are shot-peened for enhanced surface durability and crack resistance, making them highly resistant to dents, cracks, and deformation. -
Lifetime Rim Warranty
One of the standout features is the lifetime rim warranty, which covers crash damage and dents that prevent tire sealing. This warranty applies to both complete wheels and standalone rims purchased from 2025 onward, including OEM installations. While it doesn’t cover hubs, spokes, nipples, or minor damage, it offers significant peace of mind for aggressive riders. -
Modern Standards and Build Quality
The wheels are compatible with the latest Boost hub standards and come with Industry Nine 1/1 or Crankbrothers Ratchet hubs. They are built with Pillar spokes for strength and reliability. - Versatile Sizing and Options
Available in 27.5" and 29" sizes, the wheels come in silver or black finishes. Rims are drilled 28-hole for the front and 32-hole for the rear, and they can be purchased individually for custom builds.
Performance Review
After months of testing the Synthesis Enduro 2.0 Alloy wheels in a 29er configuration with Industry Nine hubs, the wheels proved to be rugged, reliable, and performance-oriented.
- Durability: The wheels handled intense enduro and bikepark riding without damage, thanks to their robust construction and the added protection of the lifetime warranty.
- Compliance and Stiffness: The compliant front wheel excelled in maintaining grip and control over rough terrain, while the stiff rear wheel provided stability and efficient power transfer.
- Weight and Price: At 2069g for the I9 wheelset (priced at $900€), they aren’t the lightest or cheapest option. However, their durability and warranty justify the investment for riders prioritizing longevity and peace of mind.
Paired with Schwalbe Magic Mary Radial tires, the wheels delivered exceptional grip and reduced the likelihood of rim damage, even without tire inserts.
Technical Details
- Hubs: Choice of Industry Nine 1/1 (90 POE) or Crankbrothers Ratchet (36T).
- Freehub Options: Shimano HG, MicroSpline, or SRAM XD.
- Rim Specs:
- Enduro: 28-hole front (30mm internal), 32-hole rear (28.5mm internal).
- eMTB/DH: 28-hole front (31mm internal), 32-hole rear (29.5mm internal).
- Spokes: Pillar SR TB or SSB models depending on the wheel variant.
- Finishes: Silver or black rims, hubs, spokes, and nipples.
Pricing and Availability
- Complete Wheels:
- Crankbrothers Ratchet hubs: $280 / 280€ (front), $420 / 420€ (rear).
- Industry Nine 1/1 hubs: $340 / 340€ (front), $560 / 560€ (rear).
- Rims Only: $170 / 170€ (silver or black, 27.5" or 29").
The wheels and rims are available for purchase directly through Crankbrothers, allowing riders to build custom 27.5", 29", or mullet wheelsets.
Final Thoughts
The Crankbrothers Synthesis 2.0 Alloy wheels deliver on their promises of durability, performance, and rider confidence. While they aren’t the lightest or most affordable option, their lifetime rim warranty and discipline-specific tuning make them an excellent choice for aggressive riders who demand reliability and long-term value. Whether you’re racing enduro, shredding downhill trails, or tackling eMTB adventures, these wheels are built to handle the toughest challenges—and keep you riding worry-free.
