Mavic Patents Spoke Lacing Technology

[AUbicycles]

Before I do a copy and paste, it is best to link directly to the source whch describe the new Mavic patented R2R spoke/hub system.

Bike Europe: Mavic Patents Spoke Lacing Technology


This article caught my attention thinking more about a certain lacing pattern which was patented however it is a system - obviously better, lighter, faster and sexier than the rest


Cheers
Christopher

[mountainman403]

I run Topolino wheels for racing and they have been doing the exact same thing for years.
1 carbon spoke runs from one side of the rim passes through the hub and onto the other side of the rim. Very strong and lite.

[rustguard]

Since the rim wall between each spoke hole is subjected to very little stress, it is possible to mill it to save weight.

I dont see how it changes the stress on the rim wall? how do you service the wheels? seems maybe closer to disposable wheels. I'd want to hear from a mechanic who has trued one before I'd say anymore.

[AUbicycles]

Rustguard,

True - First takers are always facing this risk - but earn brownie points and become the leaders if a system, technology, idea sets itself through. With new ideas you have less than 1% of the market adopt it initiallly - with luck these then influence the next 10 - 20% and if it trials well it has a good chance of taking off.

A lot of factors come into play, you mentioned servicing, there is also the pricing, marketing and market position as well as fulfilling a (possibly perceived) need. The majority of buyers wait until it is tried and tested - which is fair.

Cheers
Christopher

[sogood]

Obviously utilizing the unique characteristics of CF in that design. I suspect it's one of those designs that doesn't require truing, or rather it's all locked down tight in the factory and the wheel will either disintegrate or stay true forever.

[familyguy]

...it's all locked down tight in the factory and the wheel will either disintegrate or stay true forever.

Not really filling me with confidence...

Interesting idea, pity the photos arent bigger.

Jim

[sogood]

Not really filling me with confidence...

Don't blame you. But in reality and based on user reports, these CF wheels can be incredibly strong. Just don't abuse it in a way it wasn't designed for. I suspect it has a similar construction as used by Lew's VT-1 in that the CF spokes are all factory bonded and any repair will need a return. But at 850g, it's a small inconvenience to those who are willing to fork out the $$$$.