Ambrosio FCS28

Silver, Black, 32h, 36h, 700c, £65

Features:
- Deep section
- Internal shelf to improve aerodynamics
- As used in professional competition
- Suitable for fast road use
- 530g
- Made in Italy

DCR say:

Ambrosio rims are some of the most popular listed on this site. They have a classic look and they perform well. This particular model is a 28mm deep, aero profile rim with a 13.5mm internal measurement which is classically narrow, allowing for tyres from 18-28c comfortably. This rim is recommended for higher, consistent speeds due to its aero-dynamic advantages. It also suits heavier and more powerful riders as it is stiffer than the Excellence and Excellight rims. However, being a deeper profile the FCS28 is heavier than the Excellence and Excellight rims, so it is less well suited to lighter riders, hill climbing and acceleration. The FCS28 is lighter than some other rims of a similar profile. It also has the unusual feature of being triple walled. It is the middle wall that holds the nipple which needs to be 16mm long. This allows the rim to taper to a finer point which is elegant and has aerodynamic advantages. It also allows the outer walls to have a particularly thin extrusion, saving weight without sacrificing stiffness. The 16mm nipple will draw an aero spoke further into the rim, allowing for a higher proportion of its aero profile to be exposed and so improves the overall aerodynamics of the wheelset.

Being an aero rim, the FCS28 is less comfortable than a box section rim, the emphasis is on stiffness and aerodynamics. As there is a welded joint the rim is able to be lighter, stronger and better balanced. If you are looking for something lighter and more comfortable you can go with the Ambrosio Excellence, if you are looking for particularly light you can go with the Ambrosio Excellight. If you are looking for something less expensive, consider the Ambrosio Evolution. If you are looking to retain the Aero profile but you are looking for a lighter and more economical alternative, consider the Kinlin XR-300.

This rim is commonly accompanied by Royce hubs, for example the Ultra Light Front and Venus rear. Either Sapim Race, Laser or CX-Ray spokes and commonly SILS alloy nipples. Prices start at £551 for a set like this to provide a long lasting, quality, elegant and classic looking wheelset.

For a classic looking, economical alternative, you may want to consider using NovaTec hubs instead of Royce hubs. Prices start at £288/wheelset.