Product Reviews

[Staff Wheel Spotlight] What’s Your Wheels? – vol.2

I previously introduced some of our staff wheels; have you had a chance to check that out yet??

If not, please be sure to take a look!

Well, I’d like to continue introducing staff wheels this time as well!

Kosei’s Wheels

Rims Standalone001/650c 32h/ Bronze NON msw
Hubs Shimano M-8000 XT Series QR
Spoke & Nipple SIMWORKS Condor Spokes – 14 Straight Gauge Silver
Tire CONTINENTAL Terra Hardpack Shieldwall 650x50B

Why I chose these wheels

The Standalone001 is built on the already exceptionally durable VELOCITY Cliffhanger, and it even comes with eyelets.
It’s so rugged, it’s basically daring you to try and break it!!
I chose it because I wanted to ride it until it finally gave out!

There are so many color options, and they all look great. 👍
I went with bronze, no questions asked.
Also, I think it’s the kind of rim you can be happy about breaking, haha.

Why I chose these tires

Asai-san recommended them, so I decided to give them a try!
They gripped perfectly on the gravel ride I went on the other day, and more than anything, they feel great on the pavement. 🥋

Recommended Gorilla Spun Wheels

I guarantee the durability of the Standalone! I’ve used them for touring and gravel rides, and they show no signs of giving up yet. (Which is actually a bit frustrating!)

Recommended for these folks!

• Those wanting to upgrade their wheels for the first time.
• Those who primarily commute or ride in the city but want to ride further on weekends.
• Those who want something durable enough to use daily without worrying.

Chan-Mai’s Wheels

Rims VELOCITY Nobs 26″(559)32h Polished/MSW
Hubs SON NABENDYNAMO Son Delux 32H Polished
Spoke & Nipple SIMWORKS Condor Spokes Straight Gauge / silver
Tire SIMWORKS The Homage 26″ – Sand Beige Edition

Why I chose these wheels

One of the main reasons was that I wanted to take my Rachel camping and needed it to be durable enough to carry camping gear. Since it was the first wheelset I’d ever built, I just followed the advice of my seniors on what was "good."
What I personally insisted on was choosing a dynamo hub! For someone as lazy as me, the fact that I don't need to charge it is already worth more than the price.

Every time the sun goes down, I’m so happy I chose this hub. It feels great that my own pedaling energy powers the lights.

Why I chose these tires

As mentioned, I wanted to go camping, so I picked the The Homage 26″, which handles off-road just fine. I later switched to the FAIRWEATHER for cruise tire, which also rolled really well, but as soon as the sand-beige edition of the Homage came out, I switched back.

The Homage is so balanced—it rides smooth on pavement and handles light off-roading and bumps without a second thought—I really love them!

Recommended Gorilla Spun Wheels

These wheels are also a great match for bikes carrying camping gear! Durability is a big plus!!

We can also guide you on hub dynamo wheels, so please reach out if you’re interested!

Recommended for these folks

• Those who want to ride over bumps and slightly rougher roads without worry.
• Those who want to enjoy camping and touring.
• Those who often carry heavy loads.
• Those who prioritize durability for daily use.

Asai’s Wheels

Rims HED Belgium R Disc Rim
Hubs CHRIS KING R45D Centerlock
Spoke & Nipple SIMWORKS Peregrine Spoke – 14 Straight Gauge
Tire CONTINENTAL Terra Hardpack Shieldwall

Why I chose these wheels

I chose these wheels with a primary focus on touring, which I love.
The lightness you feel the moment you pedal is amazing—it gives you a sense that you could ride forever!

The R Disc Rim can accommodate a wide range of tire sizes, from 23mm to 58mm.
That versatility is its true strength…
The appeal lies in having a single set that can cover everything from road to gravel.

As for the hubs, I went with the CHRIS KING R45D!!
I splurged a bit, haha.
I’m an adult, so it’s okay, right?

Why I chose these tires

The tire clearance on the Rambler SL is 700 x 50c, meaning this is the largest size tire I can fit.

Thanks to the distinctive scale-like center pattern, the ride quality is incredibly smooth!!
Even off-road, the side knobs grip the ground securely, so I can easily veer off and tackle some gravel paths.
I’ve lost count of how many detours I’ve taken because of that…

Recommended Gorilla Spun Wheels

They aren’t exactly an impulse buy in terms of price, but in exchange, they offer an undeniable lightness at start-up, great momentum, and a pure joy when riding long distances!

For those looking to improve not just their speed, but the quality of their riding experience, these are a very compelling option.

Recommended for

• Those seeking lightness and great momentum
• Those who also want to use them for gravel or touring (great for bikepacking)
• Those who want a versatile set-up for a single bike

Closing

If you’re unsure which wheels are right for you, please reach out to us with the following details!

• Bike model
• Primary riding style (City riding / Touring / Gravel, etc.)
• Your priorities (Lightness / Durability / Looks / Price, etc.)

We’re here to help you make the best choice possible!

Items mentioned in this article