Pro-Lite Bracciano wheelset Review

Reviewer: Hannah Bussey

28-Jan-2013 | 4 Reviews

Rating:

£349.99 (at time of review)

Pros

Lightweight

Cons

Flex under heavy load
Weak

See verdict and spec

CW check out Pro-Lite budget Bracciano costing £349.99

We've already mentioned the perils of budget wheels and in Pro-Lite's quest for light, it has sacrificed strong.

The hand-built wheels use a shallow 27mm 6066 aluminium rim and minimal spokes (20 front/24 rear) to weigh in at under 1,500g naked meaning they are indeed slim, if not quite skinny.

However, they have a fair amount of flex - not super-noodly, but less than ideal for big power or mass.

Verdict

If you're an aspiring whippersnapper looking to keep a bike's weight down then they're a good pair of wheels for minimal dent in your wallet

Full specification

Weight

1500g a pair

Wheels

Pro-Lite Bracciano wheelset

Supplier

www.chainreactioncycles.com

User reviews

Add your review

Paul

January 29 07:35

Well, I dont know if newer models are "noodly" but I've been riding a pair of Braccianos for over 2.5 years, they weigh in at 1485g and I've found them to be bombproof.... mine have never gone out of true at all and I've put some heavy miles into them year round. Seriously, I've recommended these to so may people it's untrue. Ok, I'm only 75kg but was certainly a fair bit heavier when I purchased them.

Philip Elliott

January 29 21:42

I've been using my Braccianos fairly consistently over the last 3 years, in all weathers. They cost me less than £200 from a big online retailer. The hubs are still lovely and smooth and they are as true as the day I got them. My "winter" wheels are handbuilt Open Pro rims on good quality Shimano hubs. When I switch back to the Braccianos the difference is very noticeable. They are simply smoother and faster. Last winter I left the Braccianos on throughout, without any problems. I'm 77kg and I've never found them remotely flexy even when honking them uphill. You can find them online at the moment for £218. Well worth a look.

Dave Ruddle

January 30 19:38

I,ve been using my Braccianos for 2 and a half years now and can honestly say they are the best. I,ve ridden on all types of roads around Derbyshire and Yorkshire and are still as true as ever I would,nt have anything else.

roland oliver

February 14 12:02

well i'm 90kg. i had open sport on shimano hubs for my commute. that bike got stolen the day i got my braccianos so i put them on my new Caad10. no flexing whatsoever. riding them through all sorts of weather on my 20 mile each way commute. spin up fast but also roll so smoothly. i paid £300 for mine, but still incredible value.