The new FFWD Raw wheels are lighter, more responsive and stiffer thanks to their carbon spokes, according to the brand.
FFWD has specced the range-topping disc wheelset with a custom hub that has CeramicSpeed bearings and an internal ratchet system.
In the updated Raw range, there is a choice of three rim depths, each costing £2,249 / €2,499 a set.
We have the 44mm-deep Raw44 at BikeRadar HQ.
Carbon spokes and CeramicSpeed bearings
FFWD claims the new carbon spokes save weight and shift mass towards the hub to increase responsiveness.
They also boost wheel stiffness by 17 per cent compared to the outgoing model, which had steel DT Swiss spokes, according to the brand.
A skilled mechanic will be able to easily adjust, tension or replace the spokes, according to FFWD.
Because the spoke nipples are internal, you can only adjust them from the inside of the rim. This requires the removal of the tyre and rim tape.
Meanwhile, FFWD has switched from a DT Swiss 180 hub to one of its own, with specially made CeramicSpeed bearings.
These make the Raw wheels smoother, faster-rolling and more durable, according to FFWD.
Since the spokes and CeramicSpeed bearings are custom made for the Raw wheels, FFWD says you’ll have to order replacements directly from it.
Lightweight climbing wheels
FFWD describes the Raw as a lightweight climbing wheelset, which sits above the RYOT 33 Disc in the Dutch brand’s road bike wheel range.
Claimed weights are 1,350g for the 33mm-deep Raw33, 1,395g for the 44mm-deep Raw44 and 1,460g for the 55mm-deep Raw55.
The Raw44 comes in slightly heavier on our scales at 1,400g, with the front wheel weighing 628g and the rear 772g, including the SRAM XDR freehub.
FFWD says the Raw44 is lighter, stiffer and more affordable than rival mid-depth road wheelsets, including the DT Swiss ERC1100 45 and Reserve 40/44. But it doesn't provide any data to support the stiffness claim.
Campagnolo, Shimano and Micro Spline freehub bodies are also available.
Hooked rims
The safety of hookless rims in the pro peloton has been called into question, but all Raw models have hooked, tubeless-ready rims.
FFWD says this ensures compatibility with the majority of road bike tyres and sizes available.
The minimum tyre width for the 21mm-wide internal rim is 23mm and the maximum is 42mm, according to the brand.
The FFWD uses Center Lock disc brakes, and 12x100mm front and 12x142mm thru-axles.
The brand says the wheels are hand-built in the Netherlands and are available with a matt or glossy finish.
