Chromag Phase30 rims £105 (each)

Whistler-based Chromag are renowned for designing hard-riding components and, after some particularly hard riding on their new Phase30 rims (see p54), we’re confident to say these follow suit. Although they’re the “lighter format” rims in the brand’s line-up, we’ve been impressed by the toughness of these 490g hoops (650b size). We did manage to flat-spot the rear, but only with a huge impact, and the thick rim walls meant there was minimal denting and no folding. For extra strength, Chromag weld and grind the rim joint, rather than pinning it. An asymmetric spoke bed reduces the likelihood of snapped spokes and makes for a stiffer build. The 30mm internal width pairs well with modern wider trail tyres and the fairly flat internal profile makes it easy to stick down tubeless tape. We burped the rear tyre a few times under hard cornering but had no problems with leaking air. Ed www.hotlines-uk.com