The performance entry-level Ksyrium Rear Wheel shares many features and design elements of Mavic's famous performance road clincher series, but Mavic's intent was to create a cost-effective wheel suitable for high-mileage road cycling that offered a smooth ride quality and responsive characteristics. Fans of the Ksyrium series likely just gave a double-take and went back to read "offers a smooth ride quality" again because although the Ksyrium wheels have nailed performance, a smooth ride quality would not come to mind first. This Ksyrium design acheives this, and it is noticeable even against the steel spoke Ksyrium Elite. This comfort starts with the rim.

The 25mm profile box-type rim is made from S6000 aluminum, which balances strength with manageable weight for the 15mm wide internal rim interface. Each spoke hole area has received Mavic's H2 Hammer Hardening process, which strengthens the spoke hole and adds material to prevent spoke pull through or stress cracks over time. The rim itself has been joined with Mavic's welded and and machined SUP joint for superior strength. The entire braking surface on both sides is then machined as part of the UB Control CNC braking surface process. This proven brake track delivers smooth, consistent braking and has excessively long life. All of these technologies combine to create a strong rim that can handle the higher tensions required by the spoke system, but is resilient to road impacts without being overly stiff. The wheel tracks more truly, with less deflection, delivering unexpected performance, and that elusive quality- comfort.

A direct Ksyrium inheritance comes from the rear hub and spoke lacing system. The machined aluminum hub carries a stiff steel quick-release style axle and has stout flanges for the bladed, straight-pull steel spokes. Mavic employs it's IsoPulse lacing system to achieve immediate acceleration and excellent lateral stiffness. IsoPulse lacing offsets hub alignment that is dished to the driveside by lacing the driveside spokes at very high tension in radial formation. The non-drive side gets 2x lacing. This is the opposite of what would be expected and is only possible due to the strength and tension allowed by the technologies of the spokes, rim and hub. To keep the weight low and hub response quick, the fast engaging, serviceable, interchangeable FTS-L steel freehub drive system is used. Sealed QRM steel cartridge bearings keep the whole assembly rolling smoothly, with minimal internal friction.

Mavic has opted for a true wheel system by including their Yksion Elite 700c tire. This clincher tire has a single compound rubber that balances wear with grip and durability, and has low rolling resistance. With a 120 tpi casing and flexible protection belt, the ride quality is smooth, with sure cornering feel. Ideal for training or entry-level events, the Yksion Elite can handle all conditions and road surfaces, making it a great match for the box rim profile.

We see this Ksyrium as a fantastic upgrade for stock OE wheels or as a dedicated training clincher for those who prefer to limit wear and tear on higher-end wheels. From either perspective, the performance will be positive surprise at the sub $300 price point. When matched with the Ksyrium Front Wheel, the pair comes in under 1700 grams and rides with a smooth, responsive assurance that after the initial surprise wears off, you will actually forget about and take for granted until you have to power up a climb, rail a descent ahead of the rain, or haul ass down a gravel road with a farm dog on your wheel. Then you will appreciate the Kysrium Wheel just a little bit more.