Use: For pushing your limits on paths and single track, all the cutting edge technology has been concentrated in this new cross-country Tubeless wheel.
Black anodized Maxtal SUP welded rim
Fore drilling technology
Integrated freewheel hub with FTS L system
8 and 9 speed HG compatible freewheel
24 front/rear Zicral spokes, crossed straight pull with integrated aluminum nipples, anti-rotation system
Disc brake compatible with the international standard : 6 holes - 44 mm diameter, front offset : 10,5 mm/Rear : 15,25 mm
Compatible with disc brakes: Hayes, Shimano, Magura, Formula...
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Ossendrecht, the Netherlands Date Reviewed: October 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Houffalize, Belgium
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Bomb proof wheelset, not too heavy, stay true, additional traction due to lower air pressure, bearings can be replaced inexpensively, nice looks.
Weaknesses:
Forget about repairing a UST tire on the trail, make sure you always carry a spare inner tube. After five years of very reliable performance my front wheel doesn't hold air anymore :-(
Very nice wheelset, except for the fact that since two months my front wheel doesn't hold air anymore. I replaced the valve, without success. I applied tire repair glue, without success, which means the UST rim itself doesn't hold air.
It's a pitty, but fortunately it's not the rear wheel. IMHO the main advantage of these wheels is that snake bites are history. Since snake bites usually occur at the rear side, I'm not too sad about mounting an inner tube at the front wheel. However, if it would happen to the rear wheel, I would be pissed. I know, surviving five years of serious trashing is not bad at all, but these wheels are rather expensive, so I expect quality here.
Anyone who requires solid performance and who's willing to pay for them, should consider these wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mork Hunt
a Cross Country Rider
from germany Date Reviewed: October 23, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
stock with bike
Strengths:
light, stronger than most XC AM wheels,less spokes, LOOKS
Weaknesses:
not strong enough. spokes damiage to easily. durring a race I took a pedal to the front wheel and tossed me and the bike into the air. when I picked myself off the floor i found that my front wheel had broke at the seam and looked like a big fat TACO. oh And i have to mention that MAVICS wonderful (french) customer service wouldnt repair the fulty rim. go figure there FRENCH. also PRICE!!!!!!!
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar XLT 3.0
Bottom Line:
this is a perrty good AM wheelset but for the price get somthing else. I have done some perty agressive stuff with these wheels. and go figure it take a XC race to jack them up. but overall a perty damn good ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
erling brabaek
a Cross Country Rider
from el paso,tx Date Reviewed: August 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
horsethief bench
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
supergo,tucson
Strengths:
Easy to repair/maintain
Weaknesses:
Freewheel hub design with only 2 pawls. Spokes easy breaking. Constant adjusting of bearing preload. And oh mavics awfull customer service. (Just not there)
Similar Products Used:
Custom wheelsets
Bike Setup:
yeti 575,xo triggers and rear shift,custom wheelset,avid juicy carbon.
Bottom Line:
This is a wheelset for the under 160 lbs rider. I weigh in at 200 lbs. Ride a lot of rocks but no more than 1 foot jumps. The trains of the southwest are very abusive to the rimset if you ride hard. In the 2 years i had this wheelset i have replaced the following: 3 freewheel hub bodies ($150)One set of new bearings ($25)6 set of pawls ($65) 7 spokes ($35)4 valvestems ($40) 1 rim ($100) The straw that broke the camels back is after 18 months the rim cracked...bought a new one took the wheel apart to rebuild. Found a brand new pawl had sheared one of the ears of and dammaged the hub. Send it ind to mavic through the LBS. Took an arsenal of phonecalls from the LBS and 37 days to get a reply from mavic that they would not cover the repair even it was caused by the pawl. Mavic did not think that they should repair/replace the hub even though the pawl had less than 25 miles on it. Here it is. I have several friends that are lightweight and they ride the xls with just minor maintainance. So its up to you. I think the main problem is the light spoked rim (only 24) is not enough destrib. of the impact. 2`nd only two pawls give too much uneven torque on the freewheel hub. If you own a set of xl`s go wigle the rear cassette diagonaly and see if you have the mavic wobble. Feel free to contact me in regard to this wheelset. Enjoy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: July 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Durahm Forest
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Strengths:
They are light weight. and extreamly strong. Any part for these wheels is easy to replace and get through the local bike shop.
Weaknesses:
The only problems i have encountered is after a crash a couple of years ago. I had the front wheel straightened and now it will not hol air (they are UST) not a big deal as i run tubes anyway.
These whells are tough, i have over 3000 miles on them and there still going strong. I have replaced the palls and springs (they have over 3000 miles on them) and these were cheap and easy to replace. I broke the flang on the front hub by placing too long of bolts for my rotors (my fault). Mavic repaced the hub, axle and bearings for a small charge. I paid for the hub and mavic gave me axle and bearings free. They even have a crash repalement policy if you total a rim. They were very quick to fix and return my wheel. I would not hesatate to buy a mavic again. They can be a bit pricy but there worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: April 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
The bike Shop
Strengths:
Light and Tight
Weaknesses:
Hard to get seal
Bike Setup:
RMB Element
Bottom Line:
Like the wheel so far. Could not get seal at first tried Stan's and bead seat all that.
Finally put soapy water every where, and put a 60 psi air hose on the valve. Saw small bubbles from spoke holes. Valve stem leak to spoke chamber. Tighten valve stem and perfect.
It is very hard to find this leak because without the air hose not enough air leaked throught the valve stem to raise bubbles on all the spokes.
So rating based on pretty slim data
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
flarider
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, FL Date Reviewed: November 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Razorback
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
ONLINE
Strengths:
Lightweight
Weaknesses:
After about six months of riding starting getting weird vibration and noise coasting at high speed downhill. Overhauling the rear hub, I discovered there is only one bearing in the freehub. The inside bearing is just a plastic bushing. Shimano has at least two REAL bearings in its freehub. The plastic bushing has no durability and quickly fails. Replacements cost about $65 and you can only order them through a local bike shop.
Bottom Line:
These may be light wheels, but they should only be used as race day wonders, because they can't handle the miles of daily or even weekend riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
24 hr dude
a Racer
from Gig Harbor WA USA Date Reviewed: August 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
Light, stiff, stay true
Weaknesses:
Rear freehub, skewers, UST's burp air at low pressure
Similar Products Used:
LX, XT, xtr, many, many different wheelsets
Bike Setup:
NRS Pro - xtr, sid team; NRS Air - Crossmax, Black Super SPV
Bottom Line:
Pros: Light, stiff, look good, UST Cons: Freehub is poor quality and or design. On number 3 in 3 years. First sign is tremendous squeal/vibration when going down hill fast. Faliure follows soon there after. UST's burp at low pressure.
Had 2 sets of these (came with bikes). Would not buy again due to quality issues. Would work OK for raceday wheels but if you put on serious training miles these quickly fail. Even basic LX has been wayyy more reliable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred Labatt
a Cross Country Rider
from Littleton NH USA Date Reviewed: August 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
every trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$749.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Stiffness. It is the best wheel you can get. They're strong and looks good.
Weaknesses:
Nothing
Similar Products Used:
DT Swiss 240 XC Disc
Bike Setup:
Trek Top Fuel 110 XTR RS SID WC changed stem and bar for easton EC90 and post and saddle for SDGs
Bottom Line:
If you want something solid for XC go for it
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Colorado Date Reviewed: July 17, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light, tubeless ready
Weaknesses:
Two pawl freehub design, special spokes
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Racelites, many custom wheels
Bottom Line:
I've got a set of Mavic's Crossmax XL Disk wheels and within 200 miles the two (!) freehub pawls had worn to the point that they would no longer engage, and shrapnel from the pawls had migrated around and gouged the inner working and locked up the freewheel. I'm on pawl set #2 and they are already showing signs of wear at under another 100 miles of riding. I tried calling Mavic customer service and have left several voicemails without ever recieving a call back. The wheels are great in just about every respect except for the rear freehub design which is totaly inadaquate for trail use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: July 5, 2005
The rear hub and free wheel aren't durable at all. The rear hub has been rebuilt as well as having a new free wheel put on the set. Very poor durability for such expensive wheels. I would have thought for such a well engineered set of rims the quality would be better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jaghouse
a Cross Country Rider
from iowa Date Reviewed: June 28, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Weaknesses:
rear hub not reliable.
Similar Products Used:
crossland
Bottom Line:
I cant believe these are getting a choice award. My rear hub is toast after one year of riding. I also have a bent spoke and split nipple probably from all the loose rock that was hitting the wheel at Berryman, MO. No way will I ever purchase a Mavic wheelset again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Hawkins
a Racer
from Earlysville, VA Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kicker
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Stop Culpeper, VA
Strengths:
Weight, Durability and all-around quality
Weaknesses:
Color?
Similar Products Used:
Other Mavic...
Bike Setup:
Cannondale CAAD 5 with goodies
Bottom Line:
This is the only wheelset to have if you want the best of everything... they make 'em lighter, they make 'em cheaper, but nobody does it all in one package like Mavic... I also ride Ksyriums on the road and both sets are bombproof and faster than speeding bullets.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Canton Ga Date Reviewed: April 11, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Strong, lite, UST, finish
Weaknesses:
Freewheel, lack of a real warranty
Bike Setup:
04 Enduro S-works.
Bottom Line:
This review is for the SL Disc, these wheels were stock on the Enduro when I bought it. I was really hesitant about these wheels being able to take the abuse a 220lb guy like I can put on them. Well 8 months have gone by and I have yet to need to true the wheels and they are hop free and as straight as new. I run UST tires and have no problems with leaks.
The big problem I have is at about 500 miles the rear freewheel starting making a ton of noise when I would get about 20 MPH going downhill and coasting. When I took the rear hub apart the axel was loose so I tighten everything back up and re-lubed it all. This worked for another 200 miles until I went to pedal and my cranks and chain just spun. I had my shop call up Mavic for warranty on them and they said this was normal wear and tear and they would not warranty it.
I am now very disappointed as I now have to pay for the new pawls and freewheel for a $850 wheel set that didn’t last 1 year or even 1,000 miles. I would not recommend anyone pay the price they are asking without buying the now optional insurance they sale when you buy these new retail.
Sorry Mavic but I will never buy a wheel set from you.
I am giving it a 1 for Value since the freewheel was not made to last and a 3 for overall rating as I really love the wheels except for the freewheel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Antoine Leclerc
a Weekend Warrior
from Montréal, Canada Date Reviewed: April 1, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
Looks Weight Rolls fast E-Z to mount a tire Stay true Areo spokes Cool decals
Weaknesses:
Price Needs maintenance and care Not for FR or DH
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Scalpel 3000 '03
Bottom Line:
These wheels came with my bike I bought used. The Crossmax were one good reason to buy that bike. I didn't bought it new, so I don't know the condition of the hubs and bearing, the rim what straight and true so that's what it count for me.
As I'm riding back home, I noticed a lot of dragging when coasting down the road and deceided to stop buy my LBS. They checked the rear hub and showed me that one of the 2 ratchet failed. They also told me that the bearings were pretty much shot. My LBS suggest that I do a checkup on these wheels every year, to make sure everything fine. These wheels rolls fast, they are light, but everythins high-tech/ high performance needs more attention than the regular stuff. Since my tune-up, I'm not experiencing any issue with these.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Big A
a Weekend Warrior
from VA Date Reviewed: January 21, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
online retailer
Strengths:
Light, strong, roll smoothly, looks sweet.
Weaknesses:
Weak QR skewers/levers. Hubs came loose after 6 months, but not a major issue.
03 Specialized Enduro expert. Fox TALAS R, Mavic Crossmax Enduro wheels/Conti Vertical Pro 2.3 UST...
Bottom Line:
This review is for the CrossMax Enduro wheelset. I replaced my stock Mavic 223/Shimano deore wheelset and have loved the CrossMax's ever since. They have yet to come out of true, and the spokes still have tension after 6 months of riding over mostly rocky/rooted singletrack. They also roll much smoother than my old wheels. The biggest problem I have faced is that the skewers are crap. The front skewer came loose on my last ride, and even when I tighten the hell out of it, the hub wants to slip when the brake is applied. The skewers also have no feel to them, it is either wimpy-loose or gorilla tight. So I replaced them with Salsa Flip-off's, which feel really nice and seem to have solved the problem. The hubs also worked their way a little loose, but I can accredit that to just breaking in. I tightened the cones down, and they are good to go. I recommend these wheels for trail riding, and I have heard some people use them for light freeriding, but I don't really see them holding up to that. Overall a great aggresive trail wheelset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim
a Cross Country Rider
from hyde park Date Reviewed: January 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Stealth (@909)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$525.00
Purchased At:
Overlook Mountain Bikes
Strengths:
They feel (and look) durable. They hold air. Reasonable weight
Weaknesses:
My rear hub was loosening regularly after a short time. Then they got the "death shriek" and major vibration. Then the shop sent them out and Mavic had them for 3 months before I got a new one back.
Similar Products Used:
Crossroc tubeless (mine are very durable) 317's, 517's
Bike Setup:
03 Jekyll, I like my avid mech's
Bottom Line:
For the dough, I hope the warranteed rear hub holds up. I'm thinking I could have a better custom wheel for the same $. Since other's have had the same problem, I'd say Mavic's flagship wheel could be better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Racer
from San Antonio Date Reviewed: January 5, 2005
-rear free wheel is a poor quality Have had the rear free wheel serviced 3 times. 1st time was within the 1st month. Had same problem with my Mavic 223's (rear free wheel)
Similar Products Used:
Mavic 223's.
Bike Setup:
04' Specialized Epic comp disc.
Bottom Line:
Bottem line is this, I love these wheels. They are light, super durable, great looking, and just about bullit proof. One time I got tangled up with a buddy in a crash. He got his crank and pedal twisted up in the spokes really good. Took us a few minutes to get un tangled. Suprisingly no damage to the wheels. Just a little paint scraped off where his pedal was twisted up in the wheel. We couldn't believe it. These wheels are also super agile and firm on the trails. Great handling. I noticed the difference from my 223's the 1st time I had them on the bike. Here's the downside: And I am dissapointed that such a great wheel could have such a weakness. And that's the freewheel. It is poor quality! I have had it serviced 3 times since purchased. The 1st time was 1 month after purchase. It took two repairs to get it right that time. Five months later the same thing. Luckily I have a year warrantly so repairs have been free. However, I am concerned what's going to happen after the warranty is over. Local mechanics have told me to get a couple of sets of bearings and the retainer springs inside the free hub as these parts are hard to come by sometimes. For $600 the free wheel should be a good as the rest of the set. Therefore the value rating is lower than the overall rating.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg H
a Cross Country Rider
from Golden, CO, USA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Light and very stiff.
Weaknesses:
FREEHUB.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano wheels of all flavors.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic. F100RLC. Magura Marta's. Crossmax SL's. Custom built and fully loaded at 24.3 lbs.
Bottom Line:
These wheels are really starting to piss me off. They have now been in the shop twice for the freehub on the rear wheel. For the price I paid I am extremely disappointed. The only catch is that they are great stiff and light wheels. It is just to bad that I am going to have to sell them and pick up something more reliable. Come on Mavic, these are your flagship wheels, and they keep breaking?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aegis
a Weekend Warrior
from Fillmore, CA Date Reviewed: November 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Big Sycamore
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came Stock on Giant VT1
Strengths:
- convert from 20mm thru axle to 9mm q-release with included adapters - bombproof - after a year of aggressive trail riding, occasional DH, gnarly singltrack ... still true - no need to fuss over adjusting the free hubs.
Weaknesses:
- pricey spoke wrench needed ($12) - burps air on strong/harsh impact to the sides of wheels - doesn't hold air well (solution: use Stan's Notubes sealant)
Overall these wheels are great. They take a beating. Running into curbs, 3 ft. drops, uneven jump landings, rock gardens, and they are still true.
UST technology is still not flawless. Still some short comings, especially in the burping air department. I don't if it the UST tire technology or the Wheelsets themselves. I have burped air no matter what type of tires I ran, or what pressure I set them at. But, with all the other advantages like low tire pressure, no more money spent on tubes, faster rolling speed, no more tire levers - I probably won't go back to tubed tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Chelmsford, MA Date Reviewed: October 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Cycleloft
Strengths:
strong, light and look great
Weaknesses:
front wheel magnet isn't included and must be purchased separately (although their web site says it is included)
Similar Products Used:
mavic 223, bontrager race light
Bike Setup:
mostly stock '02 enduro
Bottom Line:
I run Hutchinson Scorpion 2.3's with this wheelset and the combination rocks. The bike handles like a dream.
Jumping used to be sketchy and rock gardens were always a challenge, but with this combination the bike handles beautifully and rolls over everything.
The biggest area of improvement is in jumping. I'm 205 lbs and they feel very stiff on take-off and landing - also handles better once airborn. It makes jumping alot more fun!
IMHO this is a pricey wheelset but worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Steamboat Springs, Co, USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Pipeline
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Sore Saddle
Strengths:
They spin fast. Look cool. No problem holding air.
Weaknesses:
freehub is high maintenance. Narrow rim causes the tires to roll to the side with lower air pressur and a heavy rider (195 lbs). A wider rim will eliminate this. they dont seem stiff.
Similar Products Used:
machine tech, xtr, gt,white ind., mavic
Bike Setup:
moots smoothie
Bottom Line:
These hubs require tons of maintenance. After 700 miles they have been in the shop three times to repair a sticky freewheel and a non enguaging freewheel. They have been a huge dissapiontment especially since they are so expensive.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fleaspe
a Cross Country Rider
from Highlands Ranch, CO Date Reviewed: July 22, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very stiff and lightweight wheelset..
Weaknesses:
front hub
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Race Lites
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Element, full XTR, king headset, fox vanilla RL fork
Bottom Line:
great set of wheels.. only downfall on them is that the screws that shimano sends with the rotors are too long and if tightend too much will crack/break the front hub body.. so either cut or use shorter bolts for mounting the rotors.. other than that wheels are sweet
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wzl
a
from ABQ NM Date Reviewed: July 12, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Stiff. Light. Tracks well.
Weaknesses:
Freehub body sucks. It is not warrantied, it's a $50 part, and it lasted me about 6 months even though I ride several other bikes which cuts down on the use this particular wheel saw.
Bottom Line:
Freehubs suck, they're not warrantied, and they cost $50.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mason Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Laguna Niguel, Ca, Date Reviewed: June 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Harding Truck Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
ROck-n-Road
Strengths:
I am 195 and was somewhat concerned about stiffness and durability when I purchased the wheelset. I did a lot of research on MTBR, asking around at local bike shops,fellow riders, etc. I was constantly being brought back to this wheelset. I have been riding the wheels 3/week for about three months and here are the strengths: rolling speed is great, fairly light weight, quiet, of course they look awesome, and from what I have heard, are easy to maintain. Durability is yet to be determined...
Weaknesses:
I came from Chris King hubs and I miss the fast engagement, not as stiff for a 195 lb rider as I was hoping for, and at $600, custom may be the way to go. They look cool and that seems to be a large appeal for many riders, but the performance isn't what you may get from a custom set, hand laced with great hubs.
Similar Products Used:
Chris Kings with Mavic 517
Bike Setup:
Santa Crus Blur ('03), XTR drive train ('04), disc, Thompson post and stem, Monkey lite bars, Mavic Crossmax disc wheelset
Bottom Line:
The wheels are still new to me... At 195 lbs, and an aggressive cross country rider, I was hoping for more stiffness. Don't let the looks suck you in, think performance and be willing to spend the same amount, or less for custom hand built wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Hemphill
a Cross Country Rider
from Silver City, NM Date Reviewed: May 12, 2004
Favorite Trail:
CD North
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Gila Hike and Bike
Strengths:
Stiffness. The front wheel tracks great through the gnarly stuff! Hubs roll smoothly.
Weaknesses:
spokes
Similar Products Used:
xtr, 517 double butted spokes, alloy nips, 3 cross F/R. I road these wheels for 3 years until I got disc brakes.
Bike Setup:
Ventana El Fuego, xtr and xt stuff.
Bottom Line:
These are not good wheels if you ride terrain that has lots of loose rocks (baby heads) like the south west has. Rocks coming off the trail and hitting the spokes is unavoidable somtimes. The aluminum spokes on the Xmax are soft and bend MUCH more easily than steel spokes. I rode the wheel hard for almost a year when I started breaking spokes in the rear wheel. I will say that the wheel stayed damn true through all the beatings and bent spokes, so I was impressed with the strength of the rims.
These wheels would be AWSOME just about anywere else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek Falberg
a Cross Country Rider
from Solana Beach, CA Date Reviewed: April 8, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Mission Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
mtbr.com
Strengths:
Lightweight, durable, never, ever had them trued.
Weaknesses:
Incredibly expensive at $850/set new. Hubs get a little loose sometimes, that's about it.
Bought them used on this website. I kinda have the philosophy that I buy the best once so I don't have to buy again. Same goes for this wheelset. Since I bought them, I haven't had to even think about them once. No truing, no maintenance, nothing. A great product. You get what you pay for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph Crotty
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Sign me up for whatever
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Rock solid all the way around. Light, fast, simple and bomb proof. Never trued and still roll like they were trued yesterday.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. Have to pump tires up pretty high to get beads to seat. Soap and water makes install much easier. Leak air - not sure who to blame here. Either mavic or hutchinson pythons, or the combo. Loose about 2-3 psi/day.
Similar Products Used:
Ridden everything from cheap wheels to nicer sets.
Bike Setup:
'00 Specialized FSR XC Pro
Bottom Line:
Amazing. I weight 200 lbs and have a habbit of destroying all sorts of things - bikes are a speciality. 4 frames, 3 shocks, and countless wheelsets later I can count this wheelset as the best bike purchase I *EVER* made. I have not had them trued once in almost 3 years of riding and I put on about 50 solid rides a year. I bought these when they first came on the market in 2000 and probably got taken, but it was worth every penny. I still can't believe a wheel set could be so bomber. Probably to beefy to race, but if you need a "go to" no hassles wheel set day in and out look no further. Much of the orginal UST/Disc technology is outdated, but mavic built a long haul winner with this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Felix
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: January 21, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$579.00
Purchased At:
Taiwan LBS
Strengths:
I am reviewing the Xmax SL. Yes, the silver color wheelset. Smooth hubs, lite weight, no flex under 80Kg rider, fast engagement in rear hubs, no side to side free play in hubs. loosk very nice and silent hubs
Weaknesses:
Color, prefer older black look. THE WORST skewers in the whole wide world came with this great pair of wheels.
Similar Products Used:
Mavic Crossroc, Mavic X139 with Deore hubs, Mavic Openpro with Dura Ace hubs, HED ALPS, Shimano WH-7701, Mavic CXP32 with Ultegra hubs etc etc
Bike Setup:
Cannondale 03 F1000SL, 03'XTR FD, SRAM XO shifters and rear D, FSA Carbon team issue crankset, USE Alien seatpost, Magura Marta brakes, China no brand Ti handlebars, Nokon cables, etc etc etc
Bottom Line:
One of the better wheels I have used. Buy it if you have the $$$ to blow on a pair of cool wheels. Prepare to spend extra $$ on skewers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vinny
a Cross Country Rider
from OC Date Reviewed: January 11, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Strengths:
These were New Crossmax Sl Disc wheels. * Light, Hot Looking, and very stiff. * I ride about 3-5 times a week consistently and have not had to do any spoke adjustments. Though I only weight 165lbs I've had some crashes that still didn't knock them out of alignment yet. * Love running these wheels with light tires & Stan's. I've gone 6 months without a trail flat tubes or tire tear.
Weaknesses:
* Expensive. I got lucky and didnt purchase at retail. At times I won't ride certain sections that I would with less expensive wheels if the drop is big. But that is okay I enjoy Cross country most of all anyway.
Similar Products Used:
Inexpensive Mavics. Riden some Bontrager stuff as well.
Bottom Line:
Figure they have to be smokin if Specialized and Giant put these as stock tires on their top of the line 2004 bikes.
Its not for everyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Lopes
a Weekend Warrior
from South Kingston, RI, USA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Acadia - Breakheart
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA.com
Strengths:
These have to be the greatest wheel's ever! I've been downhilling with them at mount snow for 2 days and after 6 months of riding they don't need to be trued!
Weaknesses:
Really none! Maybe if the spokes were chrome you couldn't notice all the scratches and they would look meaner... (I'm nit picking).
Similar Products Used:
Low end Zach's & Spinergy.
Bike Setup:
Red Foes FXR W/ Ti Curnutt, Race face cranks & stem, Fox TALAS, Crank Bros. Mallet C's, Avid Mechanical disc's, Intense Tires....
Bottom Line:
These are the greatest wheels! I'm a heavier rider (210 lbs) so I was always having my cheap wheel's fixed or trued and even though I had 2 pair of wheels, it was a major pain to always have to have them trued (every 2 or 3 weeks). Also, I needed to take a back up pair when I went downhilling since I was sure to break some spokes... Not any more! After 6 months they don't need truing and work great! At this rate the money I'm saving will end up letting these wheels pay for themselves!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry
a
from Florida Date Reviewed: December 22, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Sarasota Schwin
Strengths:
Strength / Weight
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
SC Bullit, Marzocchi Z150FR SL (2004)
Bottom Line:
I had these wheeles on my last bike, and when I went to spec out my new one, they were a guaranteed, done deal before I even started looking for a frame or fork.
These wheeles are light and strong. What more can I say, really? I broke my last bike 4 times. Frame twice (suspension linkage) rear shock and front fork. You can say what you want about the bike or my riding abilities, BUT. The CrossMax XL's didn't budge! I rode the crap out of these wheeles for 6 months (between frame repairs :) and I never had to touch the spoke wrench.
After you first ride 'em, you'll want to tighten up the hub bearing cartridges with that special "spanner" type tool that comes with in the package. Not too tight, just enough to snug them up. Then just forget about 'em.
BTW, the Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires work very well on these rims. Easy on / off, and they hook up well.
5 Chili's, no question.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Iain Christie
a Cross Country Rider
from Aurora, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ravenshoe forest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
cyclepath / newmarket, ontario
Strengths:
together with michelin tires the wheels roll forever. They are as smooth as silk. In two years they have never required any maintenance. They are very fast...
Weaknesses:
They do not hold air like a tubed tire does. My rear tire will go flat between rides. For the quality of the ride it is worth the inconvenience. I do not want to use no leak tire slime.
Similar Products Used:
Mavic 517 rims with xt hubs are my winter beaters. Also excellent for the money.
Bike Setup:
2000 Giant nrs xtc Team / shimano xt disc brakes, 2003 xtr front and rear d's with rapid rise. Thomson seat post and stem, race face next crank and bb, monkey lite riser and serfas seat.
Bottom Line:
I would buy them again for more money. I have owned eight sets of wheels in the last ten years. My crossmax ust disc are by far the best. Highly recommend to any trail rider who wants trouble free wheels. P.S. I have'nt tried any 8 foot drops with them, but 3 foot drops are a cake walk and I'm 195 lbs...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: November 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
McCauly Conservation
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Dougs Bikes
Strengths:
Strong, light and killer looks
Weaknesses:
The plastic spoke wrench will last for one truing and it,s garbage. If i did not have such a hard crash i would not have had to true them (my falt not the wheels)
They are the strongest wheels i have ridden. Look incredible and very light. The only problem i have had with these is the rear axle coming loose. I simply took it apart and placed some lock tite on the threads and it has not come loose since. Yes they are a little expensive but they are worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike 'Ham
a Cross Country Rider
from Chapel Hill, NC, USA Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
performance w/ coupon and member discount
Strengths:
I have the XL disc wheels, a little heavier than the SLs but they have been indestructable for me so far. I weigh about 200 and have been riding them hard on really rough singletrack, jumping them, even small drops...no problem, still completely true. The other day I was manualling thru a creekbed and set the front back down right on this large pointy rock and I was goin pretty fast...I bottomed my fork, and almost pulled a superman over the bars. I was sure the rim would be wrecked, or that the tire would be flat...nothing, absolutely no damage at all. I'm impressed. I also love the handling/traction benefits of safely running 35psi in my tires.
Weaknesses:
They're expensive, but I think worth it.
Similar Products Used:
bunch of OEM mavic wheels, 217s back when they were good.
Bike Setup:
2002 Spec FSR comp stock except for XT disk brakes, crossmax, fire xc pro tires (also great)
Bottom Line:
They are expensive wheels, no doubt about it. But they are great wheels so I guess thats ok. These wheels feel fast, track great, and I love the UST system. I could really tell the difference in the way my bike climbed and handled from the very first ride. They are stong enough to handle abusive XC type riding. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a do it all/trailbike type rim, or even heavier XC riders that want light but strong wheels. Did I mention they look sweet?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Cross Country Rider
from Phila., PA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Government Trail, CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Aspen Velo
Strengths:
Light weight, Fast rolling, Look Cool
Weaknesses:
Needed truing several times the first week I got them. Weak rims, bent while mounting Stans with tubed tires. Poor company support from the worlds largest wheel manufacture.
Similar Products Used:
Chris King/517, Mavic Cross Roc
Bike Setup:
Intense Spider, XTR, Fox Forx 100 RLC
Bottom Line:
The wheels seemed to ride fast the limited time I spent on them. They came out of true several times the first week. I tried mounting tubed tires with Stan's two weeks later and blew the tire with minimal pressure (60 lbs) and completely bent the rims. Spoke to Mavic. They wouldn't warrenty they rim, or even offer to help rebuild the wheel. I was very dissappointed in the extent of damage of the rim, and especially the lack of support from the company after three weeks of purchising one of the "best" and most expensive wheelsets.
Overall, the wheels rode well the limited time I spent on them. I was very displeased with the troubles that followed, and the abandonment of the company. My opinoins may change if I can get the wheel rebuilt and start riding them again. Save your money and get Chris King / 517.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyoda
a
from SF Bay area Date Reviewed: September 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light, stiff, totally changes the look of your bike apart from everyone else with regular spoked rims- so far bullet proof.
Weaknesses:
EXPENSIVE, stickers on spokes and rim can get trashed.
Similar Products Used:
Mavic 217, 517
Bike Setup:
Truth/Romic/Fox100X/XTR/AvidMech
Bottom Line:
Luxurious wheels, off the scale on good looks and something rare that few have (very cool machined hubs are out of this world). Performance- silky smooth bearings, low rotational weight and light in general. Their strength defies their weight being able to take some pretty good pounding on some nasty trails without a glitch.
The UST sidewalls of the rim make for a slightly more difficult regular tire change, but seems to seal up the tire bead nicely even without UST tires. You do have to pump vigorously to get the beads to pop in place.
I don't think you have to pay this much to get equally performing wheels so value wise it's a tough sell. But ultra slick stuff if you want to splurge on a cool wheelset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam
a Cross Country Rider
from kokomo, IN Date Reviewed: September 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
beyondbikes.com
Strengths:
these are the great wheels! they are light (not the lightest, but a few hundred dollars more for only a few saved ounces? i don't think so). they also look very sexy. those who know biking are stunned when they see them, even if they have a pair on their bike!!
Weaknesses:
pain in the behind to true without the special spoke wrench. so get one early!! the set came with a plastic wrench, but it dies quickly.
Bike Setup:
EPX Terrashark frame, mostly XT drivetrain, easton bar and stem and marzoochi MX Pro fork, crossmax ust disk
Bottom Line:
good wheels. light, strong, moderately affordable for the technology available from the best wheelmaker in the world. pain to true without the spoke wrench.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicag Date Reviewed: July 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything outdoors
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Strong, fairly light for the performance, true, rolls smooth. Sexy.
Weaknesses:
Expensive, replacement parts are tough to find, slight flex on hard banked turns.
I've ridden these for over two years and have yet to have them trued. I ride a local, flat, twisty trail everyday and a more gnarly trail with climbs and rollers on the weekend. I've ridden these wheels in Yankee Srings and Ft. Custar in Michigan. I've ridden these wheels in Pisgah and Tennessee. The wheels still roll as smooth as new and the rims are perfectly true.
On some hard banked turns, I can feel some slight wheel flexing and hear the disc brakes rub but it is slight and never permanent. These wheels are about as good as I've ever read. With wheels this good, the value is solid.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JWGG
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto Date Reviewed: July 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hardwood Hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
EBAY
Strengths:
Light, strong, fast, and extremely responsive. Not that it matters, but they also look great.
Weaknesses:
Price and the ease of replacing a tire.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Disc
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar X, Fox Float 100 RLC, Thomson Seatpost & Stem, Race Face Next LP Carbon Crank and handlebar, Maxxis Larsen TT tires, Time Carbon Pedals, Chris King Headset, Hope Mini's, XTR shifters with XTR FD & RD.
Bottom Line:
Wheelset is amazing. Pay the bucks and enjoy the ride. Cannot put a price on performance on the trails. They'll shave a lot time of your rides and make them very enjoyable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Arizona Date Reviewed: July 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
stiffness tubeless
Weaknesses:
freehub drag expensive
Bottom Line:
I have a set of the original, gave them to my wife and purchased the XL disc set. Both of these sets have been incredibly durable. I did manage to break some spokes on the rear on a particularly heinous ride that cost someone else a frame, I rode the wheel home without trouble. I suggest using Stans in the tubeless tires. I didnt have much luck with Michelin Comp S, they would flat far too easily. I did have some issues with drag in the freehub, and recently had the freehub fail on the older wheelset. It is interesting to see that Mavic reduced the price on the XL, basically the same at the old UST disc by about $200. Gouging barstards!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenixville, PA Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Red/White @ French Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Special deal
Strengths:
Abso-freakin-lutely bombproof. Two years, no pinch flats, no taco'ed wheels, hardly any maintenance.
Weaknesses:
Availability of replacement spokes (in the rare case when you need one!)
Similar Products Used:
Custom built 517/XTR wheels and 217/King wheels.
Bike Setup:
Turner XCE, Black 100/120, XT, Pythons, Crossmax UST Disc, Avid Mech Disc brakes, Time ATAC, Race Face cranks, Easton Monkeylite bars
Bottom Line:
Two years, and still awesome. About 3 weeks ago, I ran over my front wheel (forget to pack it up leaving a ride), and trued it up and rode it. This week, I broke a spoke on the front from a combination of running over it and a big stick in the spokes at speed. No big deal, took out the busted spoke, trued it up, and rode one of the most rocky technical trails in the area short one spoke. These wheels simply rock. They are worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
C.J.
a Racer
from Orange County, CA Date Reviewed: May 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
I Can't Tell Because of the Price...shhhhh
Strengths:
These things are light, they look tremendous, and the lower air pressure ability allows for some extremely plush rides!! Additionally, pinch flats...what pinch flats???
Weaknesses:
Very expensive (normally) and I did manage to tweak the he** out of my front rim on a crash that wasn't overly spectacular. Thanks to an ace bike wrench they're back to being trued and are as good as new. Pulling tires off these things SUCKS!
Similar Products Used:
Other Mavics, Shimano, etc.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp completely overhauled to XT/XTR (or equivalent) specs with XT hydraulic disc brakes.
Bottom Line:
I have mixed emotions with these rims. On the one hand I absolutely love them. They roll like nothing else out there, the tubless technology has been perfected (or as near as possible) with these rims, and they look better than anything else on the trail. Also, running a lower air pressure in these really does make for a much better ride all around as you're able to absorb quite a bit more punishment than you would be able to without the UST. They are also the sexiest looking rims on the market right now, bar none.
My quams with these rims are that the area on the front hub where you mount the disc rotor gives you a much shorter space than is available with any other disc hub. In other words, if you try to push your standard disc hub mount bolts through you're going to crack the mount...believe me, I did it and it's not hard (Mavic did take care of it and sent me a brand new rim within two weeks.) I also managed to tweak the crap out of these things (about 1/4 inch out of round) on a crash that seemed relatively benign. If not for the truing ability of a really good mechanic I would probably have had to pay $100-$150 to Mavic to send in the rim and have it rebuilt. I was just shocked to have this happen when I've ridden these things down some pretty technical, rocky, rutted, trails and have not had a problem. You don't expect $900 rims to tweak without really good cause. The final weakness of these rims is the price. The full price of about $849 retail is way too much. I lucked out and got them much cheaper but let's face it, these rims aren't going to make any of us Lance Armstrong so are they really worth a grand?
They get three torched terds for value due to the astronomical price but 5 toched terds for the overall rating because they really are incredible wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vin Quenneville
a Cross Country Rider
from Killington, VT Date Reviewed: May 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere with climbs and descents
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
True Wheels
Strengths:
Stiffness, weight, low resistance and of course the stealth looks!!!!!
This review is for the 03 XL's... These things can handle almost anything you can throw at 'em, (within reason!) I needed a wheel that would still allow me to have XC speed climbing and also would be able to handle 4 foot drops..if you do any more than that get the Deemax's. This is my first wheelset with UST and I can't beleive I've waited this long to go tubeless. It's great to be able to ride LOW tire pressures with out "pinching". The only advice is order a few extra spokes and valves just to be safe. The bottom line is they are pricey but they will make a great bike roll faster, steer quicker and give you more confidence when it gets nasty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a
from Ca Date Reviewed: April 30, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
mtbreveiw
Strengths:
quality and stiffness
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
Onyx with F519
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz SL, Fox front and rear, XT/XTR parts, Chris King headset.
Bottom Line:
As stiff as Onyx/F519rims with straight gauge Wheelsmith spokes, without all the rotational weight. UST holds air about as well as tires with tubes when mounted properly. I am using WTB Mutanoraptor 1.95 UST tires and they fit on the rims without the use of tire levers. The wheels are too expensive if purchased at regular price, and the front wheel require rotor bolts that cannot be longer than 10mm in length. My Hayes bolts are too long, so they must be cut or buy shorter ones. Overall, they ride very nice and worth the price that I paid for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: March 29, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$650.00
Strengths:
durability, strength, UST really works, able to setup your bike for varying terrains much easier by simply adjusting the air pressure from super low to high.
Weaknesses:
expensive (but you get what you pay for)
Similar Products Used:
XTR/Mavic/DT
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz SL, XTR, XT Discs
Bottom Line:
I'm on my third season now and have had 1 flat tire. The hit I took to give me that flat actually tore the bead off of the tire! Anything would of flatted on this rock, trust me. They've stayed true, hassle free, and I simply don't flat anymore. Pinch flats are big in Colorado so I know they work as claimed. While they are expensive, you get the best quailty, durability, and performance in any single package. Also, the hassle stigma associated to UST, I believe to be somewhat overstated after several years of use. First of all, I've always (as necessary) used a regular tire lever and have never ruined the bead. Secondly, most tires on go on without any tools at all, actually making installations easier than with tubes. (I will say I've had some tires that are difficult to get on, namely Pythons) The Conti Vertical Pros are easy to get on and off as are the Mosquitos. My only quibble is that the tires are still a little heavier but I'm sure they will start coming down in weight as they already have. I'm confident we will see a 500 gram tire within the next 2-3 years and then there will be absolutely no reason not to go UST.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Ashland, Oregon Date Reviewed: March 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hitt road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
E-bay, used
Strengths:
Light, run true, very stiff, low maintenance so far, quiet hubs
Weaknesses:
expensive replacement parts-$15 for replacement stem at LBS
Similar Products Used:
King ISO disc, 317's, revolutions
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Id, Z1
Bottom Line:
I use armor all to mount my tires with and it works much better than soapy water, just make sure you clean it off your discs! Michelin wildgripper Comp S tires mounted this way don't seem to leak AT ALL! Setting the bead seems to be very important. No spoke loosening in 40 hours. These wheels seem noticeably stiffer than King iso-disc with revolution spokes (which by the way have held up very well with the disc wheels), but I can't say they handle any better or worse. They spin very smoothly and the free hub is nicely quieter than the King. I can't say they improve my riding other than I don't spend time working on them, but I do like looking at them when I'm cleaning my bike so they are worth something if they make that work more enjoyable. 5 chili's for functionality. Would be 4 chili's for value because they are expensive and don't help you ride better, but I'll give them 5 just because I like the way they look.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jorgito
a Cross Country Rider
from oklahoma city Date Reviewed: February 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
turkey mountain in Tulsa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
budget bikes
Strengths:
looks, weight, looks 2003 model
Weaknesses:
none yet.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
02 gt i-drive 1.0, all xt, hayes comp disc, easton, hutchinson scorpions
Bottom Line:
I like them. I almost had them a month and still they need no air refilling. I bought the tubeless slime but I haven't used it yet. Will I need it? I don't know. The wheels and tires roll very well in my side of the country. I'm thinking of putting some spokes on order just in case I brake one. Since the customer service sounds not so great. It's better to be ahead of the ball.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod
a Racer
from Locust Valley, NY Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Tubeless, lower air pressure, strong, looks
Weaknesses:
Made by the America hating French. Tire weight. Can be tough to change tire/fix a flat.
Bike Setup:
2002 Giant NRS1, Kenda Kharisma Tueless tires.
Bottom Line:
This is a follew up. I had a nightmare of a season last year with the tubeless setup. Many flats during races and while training. I weight 150 pounds and ride light, very rarely getting a flat with my old tire and tube set up. Run the tires at 40 psi, so the side cuts made no sence. I was using Michelin Wide Gripper Comp S and Hutchenson Python and Mosquito tires, which would all get sidewall cuts after only a few rides each. I switched to Kenda Karisma tires and have not had a problem (no Flats)in six months! Love these tires! Just bought a new pair. No more French tires for me!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GTsolomtb.com
a Cross Country Rider
from Huelva city,Andalucia,España(CEE) Date Reviewed: January 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
bajada desde Alajar a Linares de la Sierra
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$230.00
Purchased At:
bicis monje
Strengths:
aesthetic,stiffness,quality rolling.
Weaknesses:
The freehub is a sh**
Similar Products Used:
crossride,crossroc,xt w/mavic rims
Bike Setup:
GT zaskar race,b4,xtr,wcs,crossmax...
Bottom Line:
this wheels are a good product but the freehub isn´t sealed properly.The post-sell service is very bad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Top
a Cross Country Rider
from The Hague, (the Netherlands) Date Reviewed: December 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Grand Raid Cristalp (Switserland)
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Bikefun-Online (the Netherlands)
Strengths:
I'm a marathon-racer and I need some great tubless wheels. I know one thing though, I'm going to by the crossmax xl UST disc (year 2003 model) wheels allright. There a lot stiffer then the old ones and a lot stronger overall. There the best Tubeless wheels on the market I know of.
Weaknesses:
I think it's hard to get a hold of any original spokes. But I live in Europe so I have less trouble than you US guys I think and there expensive.
Gary Fisher Sugar fully XTR, Ritchey WCS stem, steer, bar-ends, seatpost and headset. Suspension: Marzocchi Marathon, Cane Creek AD12. (Mavic Crossmax XL UST Disc/Magura Marta soon) In short a dreambike. Cost me a fortune.
Bottom Line:
For me there probably the best wheels on the market. There light, efficient, durable and strong. For all you XC/freeride guys out there: BUY IT!!! This whole review is about the 2003 model Crossmax XL UST disc model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Modesto, Ca Usa Date Reviewed: December 14, 2002
Favorite Trail:
all of em !
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Cool looking graphics, Slick looking hub assemblies and just the overall quality of highend Mavic wheels
Weaknesses:
None other than the rumor I hear of Mavics poor customer relations dept.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, Sun, and whatever else is still hanging in the garage
Bike Setup:
Titus X racer,Race Face Carbon Crank assembly, Xtr, Thompson stems and post, Easton and Italia Trans-am and any other stuff that is proven to work.
Bottom Line:
As far as UST wheels are concerned, no one in my neighborhood runs em. I ran tubes when I first received them at the advice of the bike builder. I then figured, damn, I just spent 800 big ones for these and I am running tubes! I dont think so says me!
I run Conti explorers tubeless with Stans Rim and Tire sealant and have no leakage whatsoever. People, listen up, this Stans stuff is where it is at. UST's are way fast and provide a totally different feel to the ride. Yah, they are expensive but your only gonna come around once!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Hall
a Racer
from Caledonia, Mi USA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mount Snow, Vt (anyone of em)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light for a disc wheel(not bad overall). High quality bearings, and easy servicing them. Stay true with out a problem(and i check them), tubeless is impossible to beat for racing. the big crossmax emblombs sparkel on night rides!!!(big plus, impress your friends and make em' envious)
Weaknesses:
The anodizaion scrapes slightly easily, for first couple rides you must check the bearing tightness, before it gets setteled in, not to big a deal.
Similar Products Used:
Non-Disc Cross-Max UST, Mavic 517 W/ XTR Hubs and Wheelsmith spokes, Velocity Aeroheats AT W/ XTR hubs and Wheelsmith spokes
Bike Setup:
02 Giant NRS Air, just like every other racer boy, full xtr, (except I've got Hayes discs)
Bottom Line:
A Sweet Wheel set period, great for racing(light, tubeless, looks cool) or just riding(holds up phenominally well, light, tubeless, looks cool(especially on night rides)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: November 15, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Anything outdoors
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Smooth rolling, beautiful hubs, strong rims, holds air over several days.
Weaknesses:
Pricey, replacement parts not widely available.
Similar Products Used:
XT disc w/ Mavic 317, 2001 XTR w/ mavic 517
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Joker
Bottom Line:
These wheels have been true without any intervention from me. They roll very smooth and track as well as any other wheel set I've had built. I mostly do trail riding in Michigan with some 2-3 foot drops and 2ft tall log ramps. They have remained true for the entire summer. Tubeless has truly matured where they can hold air for almost a week. And tire selections are much improved.
These are a great wheelset that I rarely worry about. I just hope I never scratch or break a spoke- the parts are a little tough to find, most shop mechs have never worked on them, and a new set will set you back some bills. Otherwise, they rule!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
prc
a Weekend Warrior
from Batalha Portugal Date Reviewed: October 29, 2002
Tire selection (not a problem now), replacement part prices
Similar Products Used:
Old X-max
Bike Setup:
Custom Seven Sola
Bottom Line:
These have been an excellent wheelset. Then again is your free riding then this isn't your wheels. The price in the US is outragous! Broke 2 spokes a few weeks ago, was able to get home with a quasi-true rear wheel. Replacement spokes cost $$$$. tire selection is no longer a major issue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod C
a Racer
from Locust Valley, NY Date Reviewed: August 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Peak Performance
Strengths:
Light
Weaknesses:
Keep getting sidewall cuts in tires. Price.
Similar Products Used:
Mavic 223.
Bike Setup:
2000 Giant NRS 1
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to my 2/16/02 review. I am on the verge of selling these wheels on Ebay! I have had four flats in ten races this year. Not to mention the many flats while training. I weigh 150 pounds and xc race. I'm not a freerider dropping off five foot cliffs, so I have no idea why this keeps happening. I rarely ever flatted with my previous tire/tube wheelsets. While at the Pedro's festival, the Mavic mechanic looked at my wheelset, said nothing was wrong and after a lenthy discussion, he suggested "I use tubes with my wheelset." I wanted to kick his ass, I spent $800 dollars and that was his solution! That's when reality hit me. Either Hutchenson and Michelin tires suck, or I got sucked into all hype and no substance with these wheels. My flats are mostly on the sidewall right at the edge of the rim. Patching them is not an option since the cuts are on the edge of the tire. I'm trying a set of Kenda's to see if I have better results. if not, look for them on Ebay. I'll follow up in a month.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Racer
from Chbdler, Arizona Date Reviewed: July 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
light weight stiff tubeless
Weaknesses:
heavier than non-disc black anodizing chips easily expensive
Similar Products Used:
chris king/mavic non disc crossmax
Bike Setup:
racer-x with marzocchi marathon and hope minis
Bottom Line:
significantly stiffer than non disc version. I only weigh 140 so stiffness is not usually a problem for me. I have to tighten the bearings occasionally and have trued the wheels once but thats about it. They have handled trips to Fruita and Moab including some 2-3 foot drops without complaint. I ride/race in rocky terrain and have slammed rocks hard enough to pinch flat tubeless tires but have not had a problem yet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Camus Wong
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong, Tuen Mun Date Reviewed: July 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any Road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
Light, Stiff, looking good with a big reflective CROSS MAX logo on Rim, real smooth, no maintence at all for 3 months which is real nice
Weaknesses:
Only price. No problem for the wheelset so far.
Similar Products Used:
Does Mavic 521 counts?
Bike Setup:
Giant AC1 with Sid rear shocks, Psylo SL, XT Disc breaks, full set XTR, ICON handle bar, Panaracer Green Lite Tube, Maxxis Flyweight 330 tires
Bottom Line:
It's real smooth. With my super light inner tube and light weight tires, the wheel almost spin on its own, easy for short distance accelarate and real fast on road, with it i almost ride 5km/h faster than my old Mavic 521.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Vermont Date Reviewed: June 1, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
www.velostore.com direct from France
Strengths:
Light! Stiff rims with extremely low-flew spokes for precise braking. Very precise in tracking lines, responsive to small shifts in direction or weighting of the bike. Very smooth hubs and bearings. CNC hub body looks super cool. Quick releases are nice and light (unlike yr 2001 ones).
Weaknesses:
I have not fouind any yet. MAny indicate that they experience leakage w/ the tubeless. Not me. I've ridden mine for probably 30 hours in the backcountry and only added a few piunds on two occasions.
I drive, xt/xtr, Truvativ sytlo team isis, thompson stem + post, cane creek AD12 shock, times, CT2 bar, Sram front shifter for that moto feel. Mosquito UST rear + scorpion front.
Bottom Line:
I am very impressed by these wheels. I have ridden them on some very rugged freeride terrain, and have been stuck by their light weight, precision, and the grip. Tubeless technology is very very nice so far for me. I followed the hutchinson/mavic directions, and have experienced very minimal leakage. Tough to mount, but doable. I bought these online directly from France, and could not be happier. $550 for the pair, brandy-new, warranteed and all. email franck@velostore.com if you are considering purchasing a pair of these. I was willing to pay for the super Mavic quality, and am pleased at the deal I got, so chili's abound for the nicest set of wheels I ever rode.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Frank Nosek
a Racer
from Prague, Czech Republic Date Reviewed: May 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Old mining roads around McCarthy, Alaska
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Kola Sterba, Prague
Strengths:
The compelling attractions of this wheelset are the low weight,the stiffness, and the responsiveness of tubeless tires. I actually tend to run the tire pressure very high and have noticed a much more responsive and supple feel with the tubeless tires.
Weaknesses:
As with all lightweight, state-of-the-art equipment, I have found that these wheels need to be maintained often, usually for a slow loss of tire pressure. However, on both my front and rear wheels, the spoke tension does not seem to be uniform, even among spokes on the same side of the wheel, and on my rear wheel there are a couple of spokes which keep coming loose. Because of this, I have shied away from racing tough courses on these wheels until I can learn how to re-build them. However, they have maintained perfect true through six-months of tough training (about 14 hours a week, however mostly on roads and trails).
Similar Products Used:
Raced most every kind of road wheel, and several more conventional mtb wheelsets. I now prefer the feel of tubeless mtb wheels to that of conventional wheels and will continue to use the UST platform.
Bike Setup:
I am 73 inches and weigh 184 lbs. Currently, I am riding a custom-built titanium frame, stem, bars, and seat post, with a Flite titanium seat, Rock Shox SID Race fork, XTR shifters and derailuers, Formula B4 brakes, Race Face Next LP cranks, Time titanium/carbon ATACs, and I have shod the wheelset with Conti Explorer Pros. All in all, about 20 pounds.
Bottom Line:
A great wheelset in terms of weight, responsiveness, and durability, However, I would like to solve this spoke-tension problem, and would recommend that the spoke tension be checked by the shop when purchased.
I would recommend them to any XC rider for racing or training.
In terms of price, I believe that one can spend less and get similar quality, especially this season and next season as the prices begin to drop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vood00
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
anything with hills, roots, and mud
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Down Wind Sports
Strengths:
Light, stronger than expected, can use tubeless or standard tires.
Weaknesses:
Non standard spokes and nipples, price, gaudy graphics
Similar Products Used:
rolf dolomites, rolf urracos
Bike Setup:
2002 NRS Air, shimano 959's, standard fire XC pros
Bottom Line:
Great wheels for XC racing, but not any better than Rolf's urraco disc wheels. The rolfs are almost as light and way stronger. But none the less they are awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MC
a Weekend Warrior
from Uxbridge MA. Date Reviewed: February 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
over the river and thru the woods
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Belmont Wheelworks
Strengths:
suprisingly strong for the weight!
Weaknesses:
really spendy, almost hate to get 'em dirty...almost.
Similar Products Used:
crossroc UST disc
Bike Setup:
Seven Sola Ti, full XTR,Easton monkey lites, Thompson post and stem, ATAC's
Bottom Line:
When I first put them on, I was afraid to ride them hard. I really didn't know how the alloy spokes were going to deal with my 230lbs. They dealt with flying colors. The next thing was air leakage, I had to top off the pressure every day. This problem was easily solved by following the directions! Stiff,light,fast and thry go where you point 'em! What a deal!!!! The bottom line is- don't listen to the critics, I've found that these are the people that want them but can't afford them. These are without a doubt the best wheels I've ever ridden.(good thing too,I'll be paying uncle master card for the next 20 years!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: February 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came on Bike
Strengths:
Nice looking, nice stiff wheel. Haven't had to true them yet.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Other Mavic's, Shimanos
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS AIR, Time Carbon Pedals....no other changes
Bottom Line:
These came on the bike, and I love them! I have a Giant XTC se2 hardtail, and the mavics that came on it just sucked! Ended up putting on Shimano 535's and although they were heavier, I really liked the stiffness they have. I was a little worried about how these would feel, but after riding them, they are great!
Running Michelin Jet S's on them right now...and will switch to Comp S's when I get through these tires. These are not cheap wheels....by any measure, but they are worth it. Have had my tires hold air without a problem. I am 6-0 and about 205, and run them at 38-40 lbs per tire. If you have the bucks...they are worth it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod
a Cross Country Rider
from Locust Valley Date Reviewed: February 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Friend owns shop, hence the low price!
Strengths:
Light, strong, TUBELESS, looks cool
Weaknesses:
Price
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS 1, Eggbeatters, Thomp. post, Michelin comp S tubeless tires.
Bottom Line:
I've used these wheels (with Michelin tires) on about 15 rides so far. I have yet to experience any air leaking at all. Following the directions supplied by Mavic will make a big difference in this respect. The wheels are light and strong, and have made a noticable difference in my climbing and cornering abilities. They also suck up rocks and roots, making them seem smaller then they are. I run the tires at 30 psi.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DAVE
a Weekend Warrior
from PLYMOUTH,MA. Date Reviewed: January 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
OTIS AIR BASE
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
outstanding design,super quality.I weighed these myself,and they were close to the claimed spec.I had a pair of Hed wheels,and these were heavier.I saved almost a lb.!!.If you need tires that do not leak,(tubeless)you want kenda kharisma.these are the bomb!!! 3 weeks no leaks!!awesome!
Weaknesses:
none yet,spokes could be a prob. but I plan to buy a few spares.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
tracer,thompson post,stem,next Lp cranks,monkey lite bars, hayes,all the good stuff.(that I can afford!)
Bottom Line:
need more time on wheels,but they roll faster,do not flex, and look all so cooooool!!! If you can spend the $$,go for It.you will not be let down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Alpharetta, GA Date Reviewed: December 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mtn/AL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Roswell Bikes
Strengths:
Light, tubeless, very little flex, great looking, stopping power second to none
Weaknesses:
Cost if you buy seperately. Purchased with bike.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS Air, with Hutch Python in front and Geax Sedona in rear. Climbing billy goat that looks like no other
Bottom Line:
Excellent wheelset for those who want to spend the $. Mfg of tubeless tires are increasing and Mavic has set the standard. If you want first class for XC, look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tc
a Cross Country Rider
from sacramento,ca. usa Date Reviewed: November 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
downiville
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
mtb classified
Strengths:
light,stiff as hell,easy to mount tires,no tubes!,FAST,and if you like people gawking at your bike,get these wheels.
Weaknesses:
800 bones new? Ouch! Look for a deal in mtb classified or e-bay. If your a clydesdale and or aggressive like me, don't run under 40 lbs. in the tires in rocky terrain or you will need a new rim, which means sending it to Mavic to rebuild.
Having nice things just makes everybody hate you. If that doesn't bother you and you want to ride faster with less effort,almost no pinch flats, better traction,have a stiffer,straighter ride, and most importantly, look like a stuck up pro, exhaust all your resourses and get yourself a set of these wheels. You will enjoy them much more than your jealous critics.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KB
a Cross Country Rider
from Draper, Utah Date Reviewed: November 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
More Fun
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$465.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Solid sturdy wheelset that is not too heavy. Durable and nice looking. Wheel stays true. Much better traction and absolutely no pinch flats.
Weaknesses:
Have to pressurize tires daily. Wheels/tires leak very very slowly and much faster than regular wheelset. Very hard to break tire from rim to patch a hole. Tubeless tires are more pricey.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT/Mavic 517.
Bike Setup:
Lenz Bouldervore 4" travel with Race Face/XTR
Bottom Line:
I have not done any maintenance on these wheels. The spokes are bombproof. Weight is pretty close to a regular wheelset though slightly heavier. The lower pressures definitely allow you to get better traction and the tires because of a thicker carcass are resistant to thorns. The high price is the biggest negative. I bought my set on ebay in the dead of winter and got them for $465. I would be very reluctant to pay $700+ for a set. This wheelset is perfect for the rider who likes steep climbing with fast rocky downhills and has a lot of cash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tracee Polcin
a Racer
from Douglasville, GA USA Date Reviewed: October 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
all of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Tubeless and a very strong wheelset
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
'01' Schwinn Moab 1, Avid mechanicals, Easton flat carbon bar.
Bottom Line:
I was tired of having to true up the stock wheelset on my bike after every ride so I decided to build a set up. Got to looking at pricing and thru Mavic's employee purchase plan I could get these for less than 4 beans. So I ordered them on the spot, plus Mavic even paid the freight too.
These things are the bomb. Stiff as all get out. Tubeless is a whole different ride all together. You don't feel the tire & tube slipping over each other. If you can get a set of these you will not be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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