While carbon rim equipped wheels are all the rage, aluminum rims can still deliver tremendous and value for nay cycling discipline. Alloy rims can feature a harsher ride, but wheels are systems, and how hubs, spokes and rims interact within those systems can be a greater determinant on the comfort and performance of a wheel. The same can be said for a carbon rim version. Easton's EA90 series of components have always been lightweight for their category, with refined machining and effective strength. Gravel riding is a multi-faceted world, and alloy rim wheels have a place. The updated EA90 AX Disc Rear Wheel has been designed for days like these – gravel epics, strange roads and the opportunity or chance for something different.

As a best in class gravel wheel, the EA90 AX boasts a wide 25mm internal rim bed that fits adventure tire profiles from 35-55c. Its asymmetrical design optimizes spoke tension balance, wheel durability and stiffness. Laced to our proven Road Vault Hubs, the EA90 AX wheelset is a versatile upgrade that strikes a balance between the road less traveled and the race ahead. The EA90 AX wheels connect EA90 alloy rims to the fast-engaging Road Vault CL Disc TA hub with 24 double butted Sapim straightpull spokes laced 3x/3x for greater resilience to stress and rough terrain, with compliance from the fact that straightpull spokes aren't held in place at the hub when a direct push force takes place from an impact. This slight movement protects the rim, spoke, and hub integrity while taking the edge of the impact effects on behalf of the rider. The wheel is still stiff and responsive, with direct pedaling power transfer via the Vault Disc CL rear hub having a 60 point, 6° engagement system.

As with most Easton offerings, the overall value proposition is excellent and flexibility in use over time comes from available parts and compatibility features. With the Vault hubset the end cap, axle and freehub components are available for all major industry standards.