Hugo Garcia in Mexico is a little annoyed with us because he has asked our opinion on American Classic Magnesium wheels a few times and until today has not had a response. We are sorry about this, but we have good reasons, let me explain

Question:
I’m very upset with you, because this is the 3rd or 4th time that I send the same question and I haven’t received your answer.

What do you think about American Classic magnesium clincher?

Hi Hugo,

OK, calm down, we have been very busy setting up our sister website CyclingMind.com , and answering hundreds of our readers questions, there are a lot to go through and we like to keep them varied and interesting, also we like to have a thorough look at equipment before we say anything as I’m sure you want a considered opinion, but as you are getting upset with us here is what we think.

The Front Wheel

The front hub has a large diameter axle for strength, lightness and durability; it is also one of the lightest hubs available at 58 grams. The spokes are from Sapim and are aero in the mid section coming to a round section for the nipple at the rim. My criticism are that the nipples are visible and not inside the rim for added looks, but they are easily accessible for adjustments and that there are 28 radial spokes which is quite a lot these days as many manufacturers go for much less, 16 or 20 being quite normal, but it will be a strong wheel. The magnesium rim is around a third lighter for the same strength compared to a similar alloy rim.

The Rear Wheel

The forged alloy rear hub weighs in at 205 grams and has a 17mm axle and 6 drive pawls, these are the little sprung flaps that engage when you pedal and disengage when you freewheel. The flanges are fairly large for strength and the non-gear flange has been moved closer to the middle for less spoke strain. The spokes are of the same design as the front, but are crossed and there are 32 of them, this will give strength and comfort as the crossing should take any lumps and bumps out of the ride. The rim is the same design and material as the front.

Our Conclusions

These are strong and light wheels, with a bit of comfort built in, you can also fit ceramic bearing (at extra cost) these are the good points. Against; the price is well over 1 thousand U.S. Dollars a pair and they look a little old fashioned for that price range and you will also have to use special brake blocks for the braking surface. They are nice, but for that price there are many others.