Ibis was an early adopter of the “wider is better” ethos when it comes to mountain bike wheels. Their previous wheelsets could be found on many bikes, not just from Ibis, because of their width and affordable–for carbon–prices.
At this year’s Sea Otter, Ibis was showing four new carbon wheelsets and rims, and two aluminum wheelsets and rims. The carbon wheels are getting a much slimmer side profile, down a whopping 10mm from their previous wheels–something I actually prefer aesthetically. The other big update is the move to Industry Nine’s bad ass Torch hubs across the carbon line. This means much quicker engagement than the previous hubs, down to just 3 degrees from 10! All of the new wheels will be available May 1.
742 and 942
The 742 (27.5″) and 942 (29″) measure 35mm internally and are said to be good for tires up to 3″ wide. They can also be used successfully with narrower tires depending on the tread pattern. The updated carbon rims also now use an asymmetric profile which allows for higher spoke tensions, and more even tension between both sides of the wheel.
Ibis is using a new resin that is more impact resistant than the one they used previously. With the lower profile, revised rim design, and new resin, the wheels are said to be 30% more impact resistant and 7.5% lighter.
Pricing for the wheelsets is $1,800, and rims are available for $525/each.
735 and 935
For those, like myself, that are still on those old ass non-plus tires, Ibis is offering a slightly narrower wheelset in the form of the 735 (27.5″) and 935 (29″). These wheelsets get all the same updates as their wider siblings–new profile, asymmetric design, I9 hubs–but are intended for lighter duty use. If your trails aren’t ultra rugged, or if you just want to shave some weight, the 35s may be a better choice. The 735 and 935 come in about 100g lighter, respectively, than the 742 and 942.
Pricing for the wheelsets is $1,800, and rims are available for $525/each.
738 and 938
While carbon wheels offer excellent performance, many riders either can’t afford, or frankly, don’t want wheels made from the fantastic plastic. That said, there are still many benefits to going wider even in aluminum. To that end, Ibis is offering the 738 and 938 wheelsets.
Internally, they are just as wide as the carbon 42s at 35mm. The hubs are Ibis’ own, with a respectable 10 degree engagement. The decals on the rims are laser-etched–a nice touch at this price point. And speaking of price point, with a retail price of $550 for the set or $99 for the rim, these wheels will leave some extra folding money in your pockets.
If you want to go cross-eyed comparing specs, be sure to check out the chart below.
Bonus
Unless you’ve been in hibernation for the last month, you probably saw news of SRAM’s 12-speed group, dubbed “Eagle.” Ibis had their latest bike, the Mojo 3 built up with the wünder-kit on display.
