27.5, Black Label, Interbike, Interbike 2015, Reynolds, Wheels - September 25, 2015

Interbike 2015: Reynolds Black Label wheels go hookless

No that’s not enduro blue, but these 27.5 Reynolds Black Label Enduro wheels are designed to take a pounding (click to enlarge).

Utah-based carbon wheel maker Reynolds has given a “refresh” to its stealth-looking (and expensive) line-up of Black Label mountain bike wheels.

Gone are the DT Swiss 240 hubs. Now all the wheels are now being built around premium U.S. made Industry Nine hubs, and have new asymmetric, hookless MR5 carbon fiber rims. Reynolds claims the asymmetric rim design allows for more even spoke tension (spokes are the same length on drive and non-drive side), which means better durability and improved ride quality because there’s a longer path of impact dissipation.

The hookless design also comes with a durability story, and “was not done to cut manufacturing costs,” explained Reynolds sales rep Alex Whitney. “It’s more durable because there is no bend in the rim, which can make it easier to collapse. It’s also easier to install tires with hookless rims.”

Reynolds has gotten into the Plus game with this 40mm inner width rim that still only weighs 1625 grams (click to enlarge).

The line-up includes 27.5 and 29 Enduro ($2500 per set), 27.5 and 29 Trail ($2500), and 27.5 Plus ($2600). At 40mm wide, the new Plus offering “is in the middle of the road between what the European and U.S. markets are looking for,” added Whitney. “It’s also hookless and get the Industry Nine hubs, but stays symmetrical because of the width.”

All the wheels will come with end cap for QR and 15mm front/12×142 rear, and a center lock to 6-bolt adapter. One thing missing from this line-up is any kind of Boost hub spacing option. Whitney said it will be available via special request only from their Salt Lake City facility, but the details of how that program will work had yet to be finalized.

Available is set for December and if you dont like the colors, you’ll be able to order after market sticker kits (four options for each wheelset). Here are key stats on all the 2016 model year Black Label wheels.