Spank Subrosa Evo 30AL Rims

When looking to build a lightweight yet strong wheelset for my Transition TR450 this year, Spank Subrosa Evo 30AL rims were at the top of my list for the build.

Spank Bikes have really stepped up their rim production this year. Partnering with Fratelli Industries, Spank’s 2011 line-up includes new rim profiles, reduced weights, improved stiffness, ultimate strength, and resistance to fatigue. Their rims are said to be more “ductile” – increased resistance to permanent deformation such as dents or dings.

2011 Spank Subrosa rims use the unique Spank patented “Oohbah” profile, creating an incredibly rigid rim compared to others currently on the market. The Oohbah profile allows Spank to produce a lightweight rim that will perform during even the toughest abuse.

The Subrosa Evo 30AL Rims also utilise Spank’s “BeadNip” technology, ensuring that the tyre remains in the bead seat even while riding at minimal tyre pressure. Spank Bikes aren’t kidding when they say that the BeadNip technology works – getting a tyre onto a Subrosa rim is quite an effort! For the first install and removal of my Maxxis Minion 2.5 DHF 3c tyres, I tried my using hands, then plastic levers, and finally resorting to metal levers. Once mounted to the rim, there’s not a chance that the tyre will come off. It’s a confidence thing for me – one less thing to think about when you’re riding down a mountain as fast as you can. I considered trying tubeless on my downhill bike this year, but ditched the idea because I was concerned about “burping” a tyre at high speed. After seeing just how tight my Minions fit to the Subrosa rims however, I am definitely considering running them “ghetto tubeless”.

My Spank Subrosa Evo 30AL rims are laced to a Hope Pro 2 front hub and a Chris King XL 150mm rear hub using DT Competition spokes. Honestly, I couldn’t be happier with how the wheels are coping with my abuse in the Whistler Bike Park. After being ridden for a few days, the spokes were quite loose and did need a decent “tensioning”, however after this first tensioning the spokes have remained tight and the wheels are completely true, round and without any dents, dings, buckles or any other damage. I’ve made a lot of mistakes while riding with this wheelset and they take it in their stride!

While I don’t have an exact weight on the Subrosa Evo 30AL rims, Spank claim they weigh as low as 520 grams. Available in Black, White, Green, Royala Gold, and Polished, there are some nice options for sure. I love the green, I just don’t have a frame that they will suit, yet!

For more information on the Spank Subrosa Evo 30AL rims, check out the Spank website at http://www.spank-ind.com.

Big thanks to Dom Wrapson for the middle photo in this post.