The IMTOS Ultralight Carbon Fiber Thru Axle is a modular, very lightweight thru-axle kit (25–30g per pair) with interchangeable threaded heads to fit multiple frame standards, praised for its weight savings and real-world durability over 500–600 km including 1000W+ sprints. However, both independent voices raise concerns about cosmetic imperfections, the safety of the screwed-on modular interface, fit and length issues, and the high cost per gram saved.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight: 25g per pair (Trace Velo) or 28–30g per pair (Chinertown users), a significant saving over 67–90g stock axles12
- Interchangeable threaded heads allow compatibility with different thru-axle standards and thread pitches12
- No issues after 500–600 km of riding and frequent removal/retorquing1
- Successfully tested in real-world riding including sprints over 1000W and rough roads2
- Comes as a kit with ratchet, Torx bit, and screws for head swapping1
- Aesthetically pleasing design with high-quality finish according to users who received them2
- Manufacturer provides test data and is responsive to customer inquiries2
Cons
- Potential safety concerns about the modular design where threaded ends screw onto carbon shafts2
- Length and fit issues reported, with some users finding axles too short or needing specific adapters2
- Cosmetic imperfections: rough patches, pitting on the carbon, and gaps around the glued hexagonal steel insert1
- Requires careful assembly, specific torque (8–9 Nm), and potentially two tools for installation2
- Expensive for the weight savings: ~$3.33 per gram saved according to one user; not a massive bargain at £14521
- Concern about the hex insert rounding out or spinning, and the threaded end potentially snapping off (not yet observed)1
- Color of thread adapters may not match frame aesthetics since thread pitch determines color2
Key Facts
- Weight: 25g per pair (Trace Velo), 28–30g per pair (Chinertown users)12
- Price: £145 with coupon (Trace Velo), €160–$220 USD from other sellers (Chinertown)12
- Carbon fiber shaft with aluminum threaded ends; thread pitches available in 1.0, 1.5, and 1.75mm2
- Torque specification: 8–9 Nm2
- Ridden 500–600 km with frequent removal and retorquing (~50 times) without issues1
- Successfully tested in sprints over 1000–1200W and on rough Polish roads2
- Includes ratchet, Torx bit, and screws for head swapping1
- Manufacturer (DFS) states there is no weight limit2
Reviews & Ratings
20:39The reviewer discusses the IMTOS Ultralight Carbon Fiber Thru Axle with Replaceable Head, noting that it comes as a kit with interchangeable heads to fit different bike standards. They mention that the axles are very light at 25g for the pair, but have some cosmetic imperfections such as rough patches and pitting. Despite these concerns, the axles have been ridden for about 500-600 km without issues, and the reviewer finds them fascinating as a niche product now available on AliExpress.
The IMTOS Ultralight Carbon Fiber Thru Axle is a modular, universal thru axle system designed for weight savings and compatibility across different frames. Users report weights around 28-30g per pair, significantly lighter than typical 67-90g stock axles. The product uses carbon fiber shafts with interchangeable aluminum threaded ends in various pitches (1.0, 1.5, 1.75mm) and lengths. Prices range from €160 on AliExpress to $169-220 USD from other sellers. The design allows transfer between frames with different thread requirements, but has sparked debate about safety, proper fit, and the modular interface.
AI Summary
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 28-30g per pair, offering significant weight savings over stock axles
- Universal design with interchangeable thread adapters works with multiple frame standards and thread pitches
- Aesthetically pleasing design with high-quality finish according to users who received them
more pros in the review
Cons
- Potential safety concerns about the modular design where threaded ends screw onto carbon shafts
- Length and fit issues reported, with some users finding axles too short or needing specific adapters
- Requires careful assembly, specific torque (8-9Nm), and potentially two tools for installation
more cons in the review
Key Points
- Weight: 28-30g per pair
- Material: Carbon fiber shaft with aluminum threaded ends
- Thread pitches included: 1.0, 1.5, 1.75mm
more key points in the review
OVERBIKEDWhere to Buy
| Rating | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 aliexpress.com#1005010407131341Affiliate · MyBikeParts Imtos Carbon Spoke Official Store4.9/5 · 95% positive | €269 | $333 | £255 | 4.3(9)20 sold |
imtosbike.com Affiliate · Overbiked Randonneuring | – | – |
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