HALO VORTEX MTC ENDURO
£499.98 | www.ison-distribution.com
The Halos have one of the firmest rides on test – not exactly harsh, but a direct, stiff feel, which is good through corners because there’s little flex, but won’t mask a fork that’s in need of a service, nor be forgiving on a hardtail. Aggressive or heavier riders may appreciate their stout nature, because they feel less likely to buckle under higher loads, and give confidence when pummelling through rocks. We’d also wager they’d feel good on an e-bike. With the widest rims on test, at 33mm internal, this burly, 32-spoke alloy wheelset gives good volume and support to tyres up to 2.8in. The shape of the rim bed differs from all the other wheels here, and we found it tricky to fit tighter tyres. Despite their extra grams, the wheels feel positive when pedalling thanks to the freehub’s 120 points of engagement and fast pick-up. Its buzz is fairly loud, though, and servicing the rear bearings requires cone spanners. In all, a quality build.