Mavic was a driver the UST tubeless tire standard, and the French company is committed to delivering the highest quality tubeless system to the road. Following a previous update of the rim, the 855 gram Mavic Ksyrium Elite UST Rear Wheel takes the hugely popular Ksyrium Elite to a new level with UST. The rim width has been expanded to a modern 24mm external width (17mm internal) which adds air volume and perfectly supports the now standard 25mm tire, but feel free to go bigger. Wider rims are the new norm, and for good reason. Handling, aerodynamics and strength are all improved. If stability, grip, ride quality and low rolling resistance suit your preferences in a versatile road while, the Ksyrium Elite UST was made for you.

The rim technology doesn't start or end with UST. The 25mm profile asymmetric rear Maxtal alloy rim is FORE drilled, meaning the exterior wall is threaded for an alloy nipple insert that delivers extra strength at the spoke/rim interface for the high tension system. In addition to greater strength, FORE drilling means a rim strip not required- with a tubeless valve in place, this ideal for tubeless use. Mavic engineers apply the proprietary ISM4 process to the rim itself. The ISM4 acronym stands for Inter Spoke Milling 4 Dimensions and refers to the new sculpting and shape of the rim. Improvements here are across the board with highlights being a weight savings of 50 grams (rotational), Lowered inertia and improved aerodynamic profile. As with all Maxtal-based rims, precision braking is assured with a welded and machined seam (SUP Joint) and a machined braking surface (UB Control).

The standard 130mm wide quick release, 20H rear hub is machined from aluminum to reduce weight and maintain stiffness. The design is strong, with cleaner, more flanges than previous models. An oversized alloy axle is light and stout, while carrying the micro-adjustable QRM+, low friction, sealed cartridge bearings. The smooth sure ride delivers impeccable handling even at the greatest stress limits. Engagement is handled by the FTS-L freehub system, with it's smooth operating pawls. The freehub is easily serviceable and interchangeable with Shimano/SRAM, Campy, and SRAM XD-R bodies available.

The spokes are bladed, steel straight pull models, with the FORE alloy nipple on the far end, and laced with Mavic's innovative Isopulse system, which when matched with the asymmetric rim design, creates a radial set-up on the drive side and 2x lacing on the non-drive. It is the opposite of what you'd expect, but it is bombproof and results in super-responsive rear wheel. The flanges are set-up with Mavic's floating spoke retention for straight pull spokes. Envision a hard impact on the rim that pushes down the spokes, which if they don't give in some way, can result in rim damage. By allowing the spokes to slide a little, Mavic does all they can do to prevent this.

This Ksyrium Elite UST Rear Wheel is a true WTS (Wheel Tire System) series wheel. While compatible with tubetype or UST tubeless ready tires, it is clear UST is the story, and frankly more advantageous. UST is a true standard, and mastered by Mavic. The short bed and rounded hook hold UST Tubeless tires in a perfect seal, allowing you to run 700x25-32 tires at 110psi max, but in reality, you will run lower pressures to create better grip and feel, while preventing all but the most serious pinch flats. Sealant can certainly be used, but if you are using UST rims and UST tires, you'll be shocked at how well the system seals.

Mavic provides their 260 gram, 127 TPI Yksion Pro UST tire in a 700x25. It can be run with a tube or as tubeless. This single compound tire features 11 Storm rubber (via Hutchinson), which has very low rolling resistance, and easy, fast speed. The best performance of the tire is when run tubeless, and just 30 grams of sealant serves to seal the deal and close out small punctures. Despite the stringent requirements of the UST system, the Yksion Pro UST Tire also installs much more easily than most road tubeless tires due to the more flexible Kevlar bead. A directional tread sits within the rubber, siping away water from the center and ensuring grip in the corners, wet or dry, while a bead to bead polymide breaker adds protection.

Mavic has every right to be proud and confident about the Mavic Ksyrium Elite UST Rear Wheel. It brings together tremendous technology, design and capability is a great all around road wheel that can be trained on very day and raced on the weekends. UST opens new horizons as more tire options are released. You can safely confidently run UST tires from 700x25-32 at up to 110psi max, but if you are truly tuned into road tubeless you won't be pushing the max. At least in tire pressure. Any budding, aspirational road racer or every day enthusiast will love the Ksyrium Elite UST Rear Wheel. Match it up with the front version for a full set at 1520 grams.