The Best Wheels For Road Bikes- Best Options For 2024

It’s probably time to upgrade the factory wheelset on your bike. Just about any wheelset will offer huge perks over the existing aging wheels on your bike. You can improve the performance and durability of your bike with a new wheelset. If you are a cyclist short on cash, don’t worry, this year has seen some budget wheelsets that deliver.

Best Road Bike Wheels To Own In 2024

Here is a list of the best road bike wheels for budget riders in 2024:

1. Pro Lite Bracciano- Editor’s Choice 

Price: MSRP $374- $575

Pro Lite’s Bracciano lines of wheels have both alloy and carbon offerings. As expected of Pro Lite, many features are hand-designed as not to overlook even the tiniest detail. Both alloy and carbon wheels are in the budget range. So you get great value for the products overall. These wheels are all lightweight and highly responsive.

Accelerating, even uphill, is no issue. So, Bracciano wheels are best suited for mountain riders and riders who often encounter slopes. The well-built wheels are hardy, so you can expect them to suffer abuse for years and not break down. In my experience, this wheelset is a 9/10.

Advantages 

• Great Value 
• Attractive 
• Aerodynamic 

Disadvantages 

• Quick Wear And Tear 

2. Zipp 404

Price: MSRP $499-$3,100

Zipp 404 wheels are the ultimate aerodynamic wheels you can buy this year. These wheels are keenly designed to accelerate to top speeds on flat terrain. Don’t be surprised to see Zipp 404 wheels on pro bikes. You can practically use these wheels to convert your bike into a mighty racer.

The design has been widely praised as superb by many professional reviewers. The ability of these wheels to perform against crosswinds is well noted. Beginners may require some time to get used to these classic wheels. But once you do, nothing will beat you on the aerodynamic field. Based on all the reviews that I have read for this wheelset, I can say it’s a 9/10.

Advantages 

• Lightweight 
• Smooth Ride 
• Stable 

Disadvantages 

• Less Versatile 

3. Fulcrum Racing Zero

Price: MSRP $596-$2,023

Fulcrum’s Racing Zero wheels are one of the best sets available right now for race bikes. The prices vary for the wheel titles under this brand, and some, like the C17, can be purchased relatively cheaply. In any case, these wheels are worth every penny you pay.

Racing Zero wheels are incredibly light and are designed with aero spokes to offer maximum performance to reach top speeds. Thanks to added rim depth, accelerating and maintaining speeds are very easy as well. The wheels also adapt well to different terrain. Overall, you can increase a race bike’s performance significantly with these wheels. I would rate them a 9/10.

Advantages 

• Great Handling 
• Responsive 

Disadvantages 

• Difficult Maintainance 

4. Shimano Ultegra 6800

Price: MSRP $296-$437

Shimano has always been a great brand that cyclists can rely on. The Ultegra 6800 is all about the details. This lightweight wheelset sports a freehub body and is incredibly durable. Some racers may be disappointed by a little bit of extra weight, but the specs are still worth considering.

These wheels are incredibly stiff and highly responsive. They also come race ready. The braking capability is quite impressive as well. The Ultegra 6800 wheels are recommended for professionals, but trainees can try them as well. My rating for these wheels is 8/10.

Advantages 

• Stiff 
• Reliable 
• Tubeless-Ready 

Disadvantages 

• Average Performance 

5. Campagnolo Scirocco

Price: MSRP $221-$575

Campagnolo is known for making expensive wheelsets. The Scirocco wheels are surprisingly affordable as they are shockingly lightweight. This alloy wheelset uses special aluminum pins on hubs that keep the overall weight down. The wheels have stainless steel aero spokes and an anti-rotation system to increase aero performance as well.

More importantly, these wheels pick up speed really fast. Acceleration is quick and pain-free. The wheelset can transfer power smoothly thanks to its unique design, which delivers excellent performance perks to the rider. These wheels are great for training and also for long cycling trips. You can expect great value for your money in terms of durability as well. My rating for this wheelset is 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Unique Lacing Pattern 
• Better Power Transfer 
• Amazing Rigidity 

Disadvantages 

• Limited Availability 

6. Fulcrum Racing Quattro

Price: MSRP $311-$2,035

Fulcrum Racing Quattro may not be one of the bestselling wheelsets in the world, but they deliver truly top-notch performance that deserves recognition. The wheelset is very affordable and comes with decent specs that casual cyclists will appreciate. This wheelset is not exactly lightweight, but it’s not too heavy either for picking up speed.

What I find really outstanding about the Quattro wheelset is its stiffness. The design with a deep rim makes these wheels stiffer than most wheels you find on the market. These wheels are great for downhill riding as a result. I would rate this wheelset an 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Comfortable Ride 
• Stiff Rims 
• Excellent Braking 

Disadvantages 

• Heavy 
• Slow On Steep Slopes 

7. Mavic Cosmic

Price: MSRP $279-$2,200

Mavic Cosmic is one of the best-designed aero wheels out there. It’s known for delivering consistent performance. You can expect these wheels to be lightweight and stiff as well. Some brands under the Cosmic title, such as Pro and Carbon SL, are incredibly lightweight. Cosmic wheels overall offer faster speeds and quicker acceleration rates.

It is definitely as expected of a top-notch aero wheelset. Riding is very smooth, and there’s little to no drag on any terrain. The wheels are great for racing against the crosswind. The wheels are also highly resilient and can withstand most wear and tear. My rating for this wheelset is 8/10.

Advantages 

• Smooth 
• Reactive 
• Reliable 
• Versatile 

Disadvantages 

• Not Flashy 

8. Shimano C35

Price: MSRP $262-$2,919

Shimano C35 is a Dura Ace model wheelset. These wheels are defined by their bigger-than-average rims and balanced spokes ratio. The result is that cyclists get a wheelset they can particularly rely on. The design of these wheels favors aerodynamic performance. The rotational weight on wheels is less than what’s normal for many bikes.

So you can expect truly superior aerodynamic performance. These wheels can accelerate more quickly than most as well. The wheels have improved torsional strength and lateral rigidity thanks to super wife flanges. The laminate carbon body is handmade. Considering the price range, it’s practically a steal. My rating is 8/10.

Advantages 

• Stiff 
• Solid Built 

Disadvantages 

• Expensive

9. Novatec Jetfly

Price: MSRP $353-$441

This is a highly cost-effective and lightweight wheelset best suited for track cyclists. The wheels sport all the defining features and attention to detail the Novatec brand is known for. Some wheels are priced mid-ranged, not budget, but are still worth the value. You can expect the Jetfly wheels to weigh under 1,500g. So if you are looking for something lightweight, then these wheels will serve you well.

The wheels also have partial aero capabilities. You can accelerate easily without a hassle. The wheel design is rigid, which results in improved responsiveness. The front wheel is very flexible so controlling the ride is made easier. These wheels fall in the category of 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Affordable 
• Flexible 
• Warranty Protected 
• Responsive 

Disadvantages 

• Flex On Sharp Turns 

10. Token C55A

Price: MSRP $500-$759

Token C55A aero wheels don’t have the rep like Zipp, but these wheels are some of the best in the market for aero performance. Plus, they are highly affordable. Shockingly enough, these wheels are quite heavy for aero wheels. However, the extra weight is there to give the rider an advantage in a crosswind and bad weather.

These wheels make it possible to keep the bike going straight even in the worst wind conditions. The rims are also specially shaped to conquer windy terrain. As expected, the specs are paired with wonderful braking capacity. This wheelset is worthy of an 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Nice Handling
• Durable 
• Value For Money

Disadvantages 

• Limited Online Availablity 

11. Shimano RS81

Price: MSRP $429-$775

Shimano RS81 is a highly versatile set of wheels ready for racing. These wheels are best suited for cyclocross bikes, though commuter bikes can also benefit. You can expect high levels of comfort with RS81 wheels. By no means are these wheels lightweight, but they are designed well for gathering speed and maintaining riding momentum.

You can use these wheels to safely ride at top speeds. RS81 boasts quality just like the Ultegra line of wheels by Shimano. There’s a high level of stability and durability. This is a great wheelset to rely on during long rides. These wheels get a rating of 8/10.

Advantages 

• Easy To Maintain 
• Consistent Braking 

Disadvantages 

• Expensive On Retail 

12. Mavic Cxr Ultimate

Price: MRSP $45-$1,665

There’s no glossing over the fact that Mavic’s Cxr Ultimate wheelset weighs over 1,800 grams. It weighs even more with the tires. But the weight can be advantageous to certain riders who prefer a particular form of aerodynamic style.

The weighty wheelset is not supported by lightweight rims. The wheels are designed according to the Blade system to reduce aerodynamic drag, so you can enjoy a superior aero performance even with the extra weight. This wheelset may not be for everyone, but it is undoubtedly one of the best quality sets of wheels you can buy this year. 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Low Weight 
• Stiff 

Disadvantages 

• May Need More Wind

13. Vision Team

Price: MSRP $165-$348

Vision’s innovative Team wheelsets are astoundingly affordable and perform like a high-end product. Some riders disregard Team Wheels because of the weight. The average Team wheelset can weigh over 1,800 grams.

However, these wheels are very well built. As for the weight, it does not actually hinder speeding. Accelerating might lag a bit but it’s not hard to reach top speeds. The advantage of this wheelset is that you can race even when the wind conditions are bad. Some lightweight wheelsets are hard to control in a tough crosswind. That issue doesn’t exist with Vision Team wheels.  My rating for this set is 8/10.

Advantages 

• Quality Bearings 
• Responsive Braking 
• Durable 

Disadvantages 

• Rotational Weight 

14. Shimano WH

Price: MSRP $107-$1,499

The WH wheelsets by Shimano are quite ideal for racers. These wheels offer an excellent aerodynamic advantage and boast resilient profiles. WH wheels uniquely have deeper-than-average rims. So power is evenly distributed among the spokes, which makes it easier to maintain top speeds.

You can enjoy solid versatility, sturdiness, and endurance as well. You can expect high levels of durability out of these too. Plus, these wheels are known to be very easy to maintain. These are definitely an 8/10. 

Advantages 

• Sealed Bearings 
• Easy Adjustments 
• Tight Fit 

Disadvantages 

• Free-Hub Might Fail 
• Misaligned Valve Hole 

15. Miche Excite

Price: $81-$128

Miche Excite is some of the cheapest wheels you can buy this year. Cheap, however, does not mean low quality. The Excite wheels are best suited for the average or casual cyclist. These don’t promise anything fancy but are still a great upgrade over the stock set of wheels that come with bikes.

These wheels will guarantee a very comfortable ride, even though you might not reach super top speeds. It’s great for commuter bikes and for road trip bikes. My rating for this wheelset is 6/10. 

Advantages 

• Cheap 
• V-Brake Compatible 
• Perfectly Centered

Disadvantages 

• Heavy 
• Does Not Perform On Climbs 

16. Campagnolo Vento

Price: MSRP $178-$429

The Vento wheels are some of the most affordable Campagnolo wheels you can buy in 2017. As with other wheels offered by the brand, Vento wheelsets are very light. They also come packed with plenty of pro-aero features. There is no drag with these wheels, similar to higher-priced Campag wheels.

Vento wheelsets are well-balanced and there is a good amount of rigidity to support the frame. Also, the braking system is really superior. The downside is, though, Vento wheels are not as durable or resilient as the other Campag wheels. I’d rate them 5/10. 

Advantages 

• Smooth Rolling 

Disadvantages 

• Soft Rims 
• Not Durable 

17. Mavic Aksium

Price: MSRP $109-$311

Mavic’s Aksium is a classic wheelset upgrade that practically every cyclist has gone through in their career. These wheels are well known for balance and responsiveness on gravelly terrain. The lightweight wheelset supports light tires, so you can enjoy a speedy ride on almost any track.

The wheelset also sports wider-than-average rims to support wider tires. You can definitely rely on these French-engineered wheels on rather rough tracks. I rate them a 5.5/10. 

Advantages 

• Efficient 
• Dependable 
• Lightweight Rims 

Disadvantages 

• Lacks Rim Wear Indicators 
• Heavy 

18. Pro Lite Garda

Price: MSRP $137-$172

These highly affordable wheels are a great upgrade over stock wheels on commuter and racing bikes. These wheels emphasize comfort when riding. Garda wheels can lower the rolling resistance a bike has to face on the road.

These wheels are not light, but that’s not an issue for commuting and casual cycling. The wheels are also highly reactive as they allow bikes to pick up speed almost instantly. These are definite 5/10.

Advantages 

• Suitable For All Riding Conditions 
• Stable 

Disadvantages 

• Heavy 

19. Campagnolo Neutron

Price: MSRP $150-$1,060

I think that both pros and beginners can love this alloy wheelset. Neutron also has highly wallet-friendly offerings for cash-strapped cyclists. Neutron wheels are lightweight despite the low price tag. The design favors lateral rigidity based on the finite method.

So you can enjoy a rather reliable set of wheels suitable for everyday cycling as well as some racing. These wheels are a 5/10. 

Advantages 

• Reliable 
• Quick Acceleration  

Disadvantages 

• Tough To Fit Tires

20. Fulcrum Racing 7

Price: MSRP $150-$162

This wheelset is quite popular among budget racers. The newest Racing 7 models available this year are more lightweight than older versions. The design has also been improved to offer better performance on long tracks and uphill roads. 

They sport wide rims too. Overall, these wheels are great for casual cyclists who want a solid racing upgrade over stock wheels. Overall these wheels are a 4/10. 

Advantages 

• Value For Money 
• Reliable 

Disadvantages 

• Heavy 

Why Do You Need New Road Bike Wheels?

If you are a bike enthusiast like me, you spend more time on your bike than anywhere else. For your bike to perform smoothly, it is important to look after its components. Here is why you need to upgrade your road bike wheelset. 

1. To Avoid Wear And Tear 

With usage and time, your wheels are going to go through a lot of wear and tear. Your rims become broken or worn out. In some cases, the hub becomes faulty. Replacing worn-off tires is important to avoid any bigger damage they might cause to your bike.

2. You Will Have More Customization Options

Let’s face it, the factory tires our road bike comes with are of no value. Sometimes they don’t even match the bike. Upgrading gives you more room for customization. You can get wheels that match your aesthetic preferences. How cool is that?

3. It Will Help Avoid Damage 

Riding wheels in potholes or other tough conditions can lead to damage and riding on a damaged wheel will ultimately lead to bigger damage to your bike. If your wheels are beyond repair, it is better to replace them to be on the safer side. 

4. Enjoy A Better Riding Experience 

Since the factory wheels are pretty much average, you are not going to get a lot of benefits from them. Upgrading to a new wheelset has a lot of benefits to offer like you can get aerodynamic wheels which improve your speed.

How I Select The Best Wheels- My Methodology 

As a professional rider, I understand the significance of choosing the right wheelset for a perfect ride. I have dedicated ample time to researching and personally testing numerous wheelsets, including today’s top picks.

This hands-on experience, combined with thorough research, allows me to provide trustworthy and reliable recommendations to enhance your cycling experience.

FAQs 

Are Carbon Rim brake wheels Safe?

Carbon rims are not considered safe with rim brake bikes. Although they are safe for racing, they do not perform on long descents. 

Can I Use Rim Brake Wheels On Disc Brake Bike?

No, the design of a disc brake bike will not be compatible with rim brake wheels. I would recommend you buy disc brake wheels for a disc brake bike to avoid any accidents.

Conclusion 

If you are new to road biking and are still confused about which wheelset will be best for your bike, it is best to consult a mechanic at your local bike shop. Keep in mind your riding style, preferences, and most importantly your budget when you are buying a new wheelset. You can also opt for buying a used wheelset but that’s a story for a different day!

Which one of the above wheelsets do you hope to buy this year?

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