The Okios from Portuguese brand Blackjack enter a fiercely contested market sector, and on first inspection are competitive. The red anodised hubs have a similar design to the Mavic's Ksyrium, with black, straight-pull aero spokes supporting 27mm deep, white aero rims.
Here the similarities end, as Blackjack's quick-release levers lack a positive feel, and they use spoke nipples hidden inside the rims. Still, power transfer was very good and the wheels reacted well to sprint efforts. When up to speed the aero rims rolled well, feeling relatively quick, but their extra mass hurt when climbing and we could detect some lateral flex.
Because of the deep rims the Okios gave a harsh ride over rough road surfaces, and after testing the rear hub seemed to have excessive friction as it slowed to a stop very quickly. Oddly, the wheels are supplied with Shimano hubs only. If you want Campagnolo hubs, they’ll set you back an extra £39.99
