The Race Face Next R 36 Carbon [paid link] wheels are designed to meet the needs of riders who demand high performance, durability, and versatility. As part of Race Face’s Next series, these wheels are engineered for aggressive trail riders and enduro racers who need reliable components for tough terrains. This article provides a detailed review of the Next R 36 Carbon [paid link] wheels, focusing on their performance, installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Overview of the Race Face Next R 36 Carbon Wheels
The Next R [paid link] 36 Carbon wheels are crafted from high-quality carbon fiber, making them lightweight yet durable. With a 36mm internal rim width, these wheels are optimized for wider tires, offering enhanced stability and traction. The carbon fiber construction contributes to improved shock absorption and reduced weight compared to aluminum wheels, making them an excellent choice for riders looking to reduce overall bike weight without compromising strength.
These wheels are particularly suited for aggressive riding styles and challenging conditions, including rocky and technical trails. They are compatible with modern drivetrain systems, featuring a boost hub spacing and wide rims that accommodate tires up to 2.6 inches. The Next R [paid link] 36 Carbon wheels are a popular choice for riders seeking a competitive edge, offering both precision and resilience on demanding trails.
Performance of the Next R 36 Carbon Wheels
Ride Quality and Handling
The most significant performance advantage of the Next R 36 Carbon wheels is their excellent ride quality. Thanks to the carbon fiber construction, the wheels are stiffer and more responsive, offering improved power transfer during sprints and climbs. The wide 36mm internal rim width allows for better tire support, providing more contact with the ground and enhancing cornering performance. Riders will notice better stability on high-speed descents and in technical sections of the trail.
The ability of the wheels to absorb shock and reduce vibrations translates into a smoother ride, even on rough and rocky terrain. This feature helps reduce rider fatigue, especially on long, demanding rides, making these wheels a great choice for endurance events or aggressive trail riding.
Durability and Strength
The Next R 36 Carbon wheels are designed to withstand the rigors of aggressive mountain biking. Race Face has incorporated advanced carbon layup techniques to ensure these wheels are not only lightweight but also incredibly durable. They have been tested under extreme conditions and have shown excellent resistance to impacts, making them suitable for tough trails and rocky environments.
The wheels are built to handle high stresses, and the wide rim design ensures that tire burping (air loss from the bead) is minimized, offering greater reliability during aggressive riding. The high-strength carbon fiber spokes and hubs contribute to their robust design, which can endure the stresses of heavy-duty use.
Customization and Optimization
While the Next R 36 Carbon wheels are already designed to offer outstanding performance, riders can further optimize them for their specific needs. One of the key areas for customization is tire choice. The wide rim width supports larger tires, which allows riders to experiment with tire pressures and tire compounds for different riding conditions. For riders who prefer aggressive cornering and faster rolling, choosing a tire with a wider profile can further improve traction and speed.
Additionally, riders can swap out the hubs to suit their preferences. The standard hubs on the Next R 36 Carbon wheels are high-quality, but for those seeking ultimate performance, upgrading to a more lightweight or responsive hub could provide marginal gains in acceleration and ride feel. However, most riders will find the stock hubs to be more than adequate for most use cases.
Installation and Adjustment of the Next R 36 Carbon Wheels
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 15mm thru-axle tool or quick release skewer
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] (for hub installation)
- Tire levers
- Tubeless tire setup tools (if using tubeless setup)
- Floor pump or compressor (for tire inflation)
Installation
- Begin by ensuring the bike frame and fork are compatible with the 110mm front and 148mm rear boost hub spacing.
- Install the front wheel into the fork dropouts, making sure the axle is correctly aligned. Tighten using the appropriate tool to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.
- For the rear wheel, install it into the rear triangle. Ensure the rear axle slides in smoothly and the wheel is centered.
- If you are running a tubeless tire setup, use tire levers to mount the tire onto the rim. Ensure the tire beads sit evenly on both sides of the rim.
- Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure using a floor pump or compressor, ensuring the tire seats properly on the rim.
- Double-check the wheel alignment and axle tension before riding.
Adjustment
Once the wheels are installed, it’s important to ensure proper wheel alignment and tension. Check for any lateral or radial run-out (wobble) by spinning the wheels and observing them in motion. If any issues are detected, you may need to true the wheels or adjust spoke tension.
Additionally, the hubs may require periodic servicing. Over time, bearings can wear down, and grease can break down, affecting performance. Race Face recommends servicing the hubs every 12-18 months, or more frequently if riding in harsh conditions. This will ensure smooth rolling performance and prolong the lifespan of the wheels.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
1. Wheel Wobble or Lateral Play
If you experience wobbling or lateral play in the wheels after installation, check the axle tension and ensure the wheel is properly seated in the dropouts. If the wobble persists, it could indicate an issue with spoke tension, which may require truing the wheel.
2. Tire Bead Seating Issues
In some cases, tire beads may not seat properly when using a tubeless setup, resulting in air leaks. Ensure the tire beads are aligned evenly and seated into the rim. If necessary, use a compressor to quickly inflate the tire and seat the bead more effectively.
3. Hub Performance Issues
If you notice the hubs are making excessive noise or feeling rough, it could be time for a service. Disassemble the hub, clean the bearings, and replace any worn-out components. Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of the hub and maintains smooth rolling performance.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Race Face Next R 36 Carbon wheels are compatible with most modern drivetrain systems, including Shimano, SRAM, and other popular brands. The wheels are designed to work with 12-speed drivetrains, which is standard for most modern mountain bikes. However, riders should ensure that the freehub body is compatible with their specific drivetrain.
For example, if you are using a Shimano drivetrain, the standard freehub body will work seamlessly. For SRAM systems, ensure the correct driver body is installed. Race Face offers multiple freehub options to ensure compatibility with different drivetrain systems.
Additionally, the wider rims allow for the use of wider tires, which can improve overall traction and control, especially in challenging trail conditions. The increased tire volume also allows for lower pressures, enhancing grip without sacrificing speed.
Comparison with Similar Models
When compared to other carbon wheels in its category, the Race Face Next R 36 Carbon wheels stand out due to their combination of lightweight construction, durability, and versatility. Similar wheels, such as the DT Swiss EX 1501 or the Industry Nine Enduro 305, offer comparable performance but may come at a higher price point or with less emphasis on rim width optimization.
The Next R 36 Carbon wheels offer a better balance between weight and strength, making them an ideal choice for aggressive trail riders and enduro racers. The wider rim design also provides an advantage in terms of tire support and stability on technical terrain, setting them apart from models with narrower rim profiles.
Overall, the Race Face Next R 36 Carbon wheels offer excellent performance, durability, and value for the price, making them a top choice for serious riders.