The Atlas 30 wheels by Race Face are designed to provide a balance of durability, performance, and weight efficiency for both amateur and professional riders. In this guide, we will go over the installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Atlas 30 wheels, troubleshoot common issues, optimize their performance, and compare them with similar models to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Installation of Atlas 30 Wheels
Installing the Atlas 30 wheels requires a few steps to ensure they are properly set up for optimal performance. These wheels are compatible with modern mountain bike standards, featuring a 30mm internal width, making them suitable for both tubeless and traditional tire setups.
Tools Required
- 15mm through-axle or quick release skewer
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 5mm and 6mm hex wrenches
- Tubeless tire sealant (if setting up tubeless)
- Rim tape (if not pre-installed)
- Valve stems (if setting up tubeless)
- Tire levers (if installing tires)
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare the wheelset: Ensure the wheels are free from any packaging material or debris.
- Install the tire: Begin by mounting the tire onto the rim. Use tire levers for easier installation if needed. Be sure to check that the tire is properly seated on both sides.
- Set up the tubeless system (optional): If you plan to use the Atlas 30 wheels in a tubeless configuration, apply tubeless sealant and install the valve stems. Use rim tape if it’s not pre-installed.
- Mount the wheels onto the bike: Place the wheel into the dropouts or frame, aligning the axle with the hub. Tighten the axle with a 15mm wrench or quick-release lever, depending on the bike’s specification.
- Check for proper tire inflation: If running tubeless, inflate the tire to the recommended pressure, typically between 30-40 PSI depending on rider preference and terrain. Use a floor pump or compressor to seat the tire bead properly.
Adjustment of Atlas 30 Wheels
Proper adjustments are essential to ensure that the Atlas 30 wheels perform at their best. Here are the key adjustments that you should make:
Axle and Hub Tension
Ensure that the hub bearings are properly adjusted. You can do this by slightly loosening the axle and checking for any side-to-side play in the wheel. If there is any, adjust the bearings to eliminate the slack, then tighten the axle according to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
Brake Rotor Alignment
The Atlas 30 wheels are designed to be compatible with 6-bolt disc brake rotors. It is crucial to ensure that the rotor is aligned properly. Check for any rubbing by rotating the wheel while applying the brakes. If you hear any noise or resistance, adjust the brake caliper position by loosening the mounting bolts and realigning it.
Maintenance of Atlas 30 Wheels
Maintaining the Atlas 30 wheels ensures they perform optimally and last longer. Regular maintenance will also help in identifying and fixing small issues before they turn into bigger problems.
Hub Servicing
The hub on the Atlas 30 wheels should be serviced periodically, especially if ridden in harsh conditions. Disassemble the hub, clean the bearings, and apply fresh grease to prevent wear. Pay attention to the freehub mechanism to ensure smooth engagement. If the hub feels sluggish, it might be time to replace the bearings.
Rims and Tires
Check the rims for any signs of damage or cracks, particularly around the spoke holes. If you ride on rocky or rough trails, inspect the rims for dings or dents regularly. The Atlas 30 wheels feature an internal width of 30mm, which makes them great for wide tires, but tire pressure should still be monitored closely. Over or under-inflated tires can negatively affect performance and durability.
Spokes and Nipples
Inspect the spokes for any looseness or signs of damage. If you find any loose spokes, tighten them using a spoke wrench, ensuring that you don’t overtighten, as this can cause more harm than good. The nipples should also be checked for corrosion and wear.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While the Atlas 30 wheels are built for durability and ease of use, riders may encounter a few common issues during setup or use. Here’s how to address them:
1. Wheel Wobble
If you notice that the wheel wobbles or is untrue, it’s important to check for spoke tension and adjust accordingly. Use a truing stand to check for any lateral or radial runout, and adjust the spoke tension using a spoke wrench. If the wheel is severely out of true, it may require professional help to correct the spoke pattern.
2. Tire Sealant Leaks
If you experience frequent sealant leaks in your tubeless setup, check for punctures or damage to the tire. Sometimes, even small holes can cause sealant to leak. If the sealant is drying out, top it up with fresh sealant. Additionally, check the rim tape to make sure it is properly installed and covering all spoke holes.
3. Brakes Rubbing on Rotor
If your brakes are rubbing on the rotor, it may be due to misalignment or an improperly installed rotor. Start by checking the rotor mounting bolts and make sure they are torqued correctly. If the rotor is still rubbing, use a rotor straightening tool to gently bend the rotor back into alignment.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
The Atlas 30 wheels are highly customizable, which allows you to optimize them for your specific riding needs. Whether you’re looking to improve the weight, stiffness, or ride quality, here are some customization tips:
Tire Choice
The 30mm internal rim width of the Atlas 30 is ideal for wider tires, which provide better traction and comfort. For aggressive riders or those who ride on rough terrain, opt for a 2.4″ to 2.6″ tire for increased control. If you’re aiming for a faster, lighter setup for cross-country riding, a 2.0″ to 2.2″ tire can reduce rolling resistance.
Tubeless Setup
Going tubeless will significantly reduce the risk of punctures and provide better ride quality, particularly for mountain bikers. If you want to further optimize performance, use high-quality sealant and make sure that your tire pressure is appropriate for the type of terrain you are riding on. Adjusting your tire pressure based on weather conditions and terrain type can help improve traction and comfort.
Wheelset Weight
While the Atlas 30 wheels are not the lightest option on the market, their strength and durability make them an excellent choice for rough trails. If weight is a major concern, consider pairing the wheels with lightweight tires and tubes to keep the overall setup more agile without sacrificing strength.
Comparison with Similar Models
When comparing the Atlas 30 wheels with other options in the same category, it’s clear that Race Face has focused on durability and versatility. Here’s how they compare to similar models:
Atlas 30 vs. Race Face Turbine
- Weight: The Atlas 30 is slightly heavier than the Turbine, but the added weight provides more stability and durability for rough terrain.
- Durability: Both wheels are designed for aggressive riders, but the Atlas 30 has a wider internal rim, which allows it to support wider tires, making it a better choice for technical trails.
- Performance: The Turbine is a good option for riders looking to save weight and ride on less technical terrain, but the Atlas 30 is optimized for riders who need more strength and performance in rough conditions.
Atlas 30 vs. Mavic Crossmax XL
- Rim Width: The Atlas 30 has a wider internal rim than the Mavic Crossmax XL, providing a better platform for wider tires, which can be a huge advantage for mountain biking.
- Hub Engagement: Both models feature high-quality hubs, but the Atlas 30’s hub system is known for its smooth freehub engagement, offering quicker acceleration.
- Price: While the Atlas 30 is competitively priced, the Mavic Crossmax XL might offer slightly more premium features, but at a higher price point.
Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Atlas 30 wheels are designed to be compatible with a wide range of drivetrain components, making them versatile for many riders. These wheels are compatible with both 6-bolt disc brake systems and modern 12-speed drivetrains, allowing for easy integration with most popular MTB gear setups. Additionally, the hubs are compatible with quick-release and through-axle standards, ensuring they can be installed on most frames without issue.
If you’re using a 12-speed drivetrain, ensure that your cassette is compatible with the freehub body. The Atlas 30 wheels feature a Shimano HG freehub, so you’ll need to make sure your cassette is compatible with this system. The wheels also work well with both tubeless and standard tire setups, providing flexibility in how you choose to run your setup.