The gravel biking category is very diverse and is interpreted differently. Some riders prefer to ride on rural roads and trails filled with mud and potholes, while others compete in races that span continents, carrying all of their equipment on the bike for several days. These different riding styles require different bikes and components. That's why it's important to find the right wheels that fit your budget and gravel riding preferences. If you plan to compete and race with your gravel bike, you should consider upgrading to a stiffer and more aerodynamic wheelset, which can give you some performance advantages in competition.

What size gravel wheelset do I need?

This decision should be made based on the specifications of your frame. If your frame can only accommodate either 700c or 650b wheels then you will need to stick with the size that is suitable for your frame. However, many frames now offer the option of using both sizes, so which would be the right choice for you?

In general, 650b wheels can be run with wider tires than the larger 700c wheels, although with a slight compromise in rollover (how easily the wheel rolls over bumps).

If you prefer fast rides on narrower tires, especially on asphalt routes, then a 700c wheel is the right choice. However, for rougher adventures we recommend a 650b wheel. Smaller wheels are also more stable. So if you're worried about stability on a loaded tour, you might also want to go for the smaller size.

It's worth noting that there have been fewer and fewer 650b tires on the market in recent years, which could indicate that 700c is becoming the standard. So if you want to be future-proof, we recommend you go for 700c.

How important is rim width for gravel bikes?

When buying wheels, it is important to pay attention to the inner rim width. This factor affects the overall profile of your tire. Wider rims can provide more grip in corners by straightening the sidewalls, but they can also cause slightly increased drag. Conventional road rims typically have an inner diameter of 16 to 19mm, while gravel or wide road rims can be up to 25mm wide. You should avoid stretching a tire too far as this can affect the tread and shape, which can affect more than just the tire tread.

Rotors with central locking or with six screws?

When choosing the right wheels for your gravel bike, it is important to consider the disc brake rotors already installed on your bike. Most gravel bike groups are equipped with center lock rotors, which are also common on balance bikes. However, it is important to know the difference between center lock and six-bolt systems.

With a center lock system, the disc is attached to the hub of the wheel with a single locking ring. This is the same ring that in most cases holds the cassette to the freewheel. It's a simpler system and allows for a lighter hub, but the rotors themselves are generally heavier. If you need to remove the cassette or rotors, you can use the same lock ring tool.

The six-bolt mounting system, on the other hand, uses six T25 Torx screws to attach the rotor to the hub body. This system has been around for several decades.

However, neither system is significantly better than the other. Therefore, it's best to stick with the type of rotor you already have on your bike. This way you don't have to buy a new pair of compatible rotors. You can also purchase adapters to get around possible compatibility issues.

Is carbon better than alloy for gravel bikes?

Gravel bike wheels can be made from either carbon or aluminum. While many riders aim to ride carbon wheels, it's worth noting that aluminum wheels offer more value for your money, which may be the deciding factor for some. The advantages of carbon wheels are that they tend to have the best strength-to-weight ratio and, if you're willing to pay a higher price, offer better aerodynamic performance.

ICAN now offers carbon fiber wheelsets that are not only cost effective but also of the highest quality. Additionally, they provide exceptional customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.

700C G24 gravel wheels 

Should I go tubeless?

Recent advances in tubeless tire technology have been warmly welcomed by gravel riders. Most modern wheelsets are tubeless compatible and sometimes come with valves and tape pre-installed, making it easier to save weight and run with lower tire pressures for a more comfortable ride without the risk of a flat tire.

However, adjusting the wheel and tires can be a little more complicated at first. But once it's set, it's almost a "fit and forget" system. Just do not forget to check the level and condition of the sealant every six months according to the instructions.