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UPDATE: You can read my YOELEO NxT SL2 C60 review here.
YOELEO has unveiled its new NXT SL2 carbon wheels, offering several improvements over the previous generation. YOELEO aims to be more competitive in the Chinese carbon wheels market. So, what’s new?
The NXT SL2 wheels are about 70g lighter and boast a wider rim width. The internal rim width increased by 1mm (23mm), and the external width is 2mm wider (32mm). These changes aim to enhance tire-rim transition and follow the industry trend, but only with 25 and 28-mm tires. Considering today’s standards, I think they should be 2-3 mm wider to “future-proof” themselves more and allow us to use 30mm while keeping a smooth tire-rim transition.
Additionally, YOELEO has switched to a 36T ratchet system, replacing the 52T version in the NXT 1, which should result in more instant engagement when pedaling.
However, I have to criticize the lack of published aerodynamic data. Since wheel aerodynamics play a crucial role in cycling performance, many riders may wonder how the NXT SL2 compares to the first generation, eventually to their discontinued SAT PRO range.
It’s worth noting that YOELEO has chosen to stick with traditional steel spokes rather than following the growing trend of carbon spokes. This decision could be seen as a positive for those who prioritize ride comfort, as carbon spokes tend to be stiffer. The use of traditional spokes (Pillar Wing 20) also makes the wheels easier to maintain and repair, a bonus for cyclists who prefer self-servicing their gear.
Despite these changes, the decals, spokes, and overall serviceability remain the same as the NXT 1. With a $50 price increase, the NXT SL2 wheels bring just a few minor updates and different rim depths. Check out the following table for further reference.
| Wheels | NXT | NXT SL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Rim depths | 35mm 45mm 50mm 58mm | 35mm 50mm 60mm 88mm |
| Weight | 1310g 1380g 1410g 1460g | 1260g 1320g 1345g 1720g |
| External rim width | 30mm | 32mm |
| Internal rim width | 22mm | 23mm |
| Spokes | Pillar WING 20 Aero Spokes | Pillar WING 20 Aero Spokes |
| Hubs | 52T ratchet | 36T ratchet |
| Weight limit | 105kg (231lbs) | 105kg (231lbs) |
| Price | $929 ($949) | $999 |
| Buy | discontinued | BUY NXT SL2 Use code CYCLISTSHUB to get 10 % OFF |
I’m curious to see if they will be competitive. The price/weight ratio is better than that of many Western brand wheelsets, but is it enough? For example, Farsports recently also launched new similarly priced and lighter wheelsets. I should receive a pair for testing from YOELEO, so stay tuned to learn more about the ride characteristics of the NXT SL2 wheels.
