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There’s a huge gap in the carbon wheel market right now.
On one end, you have entry-level Chinese wheels that are affordable but come with compromises. On the other, you have Western brands charging $2,500–$3,500 for performance-focused wheelsets.
This video is about what sits in between.
These are mid-to-high-tier Chinese carbon wheels that I sourced through an internet forum and ultimately bought directly via WhatsApp from the manufacturer. No influencer deal. No brand sponsorship. Just specs, ride impressions, and whether this category actually makes sense for riders who want real performance without paying premium-brand pricing.
I break down:
Why mid-tier Chinese wheels are often overlooked
How these compare to both beginner Chinese wheels and Western brands
Real-world ride impressions (stiffness, comfort, speed, stability)
What matters more than carbon grade marketing
Who these wheels actually make sense for
If you’re researching carbon wheels and trying to avoid both overpriced hype and true budget compromises, this video is for you.
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Bike part mentions in this video
WheelsCS-D50CU-33 disc brake 50mm depth carbon road rim 33mm (Xiamen Carbon Speed)
Created: July 16, 2025The reviewer discusses a custom set of carbon road bike wheels ordered from Shaman Carbon Speed, which is likely the company 'Xiamen Carbon Speed' referenced in the part name. They state the wheels are 50mm deep, have a 26mm internal width and 34mm external width, and weigh approximately 1,400g. The reviewer highlights the exceptional value, wide rims, light weight, and performance in holding momentum and accelerating. They mention the wheels are made from T1100 carbon fiber, come with in-house DT Swiss style ratchet hubs with a 54-tooth ratchet, and are laced to straight-pull carbon spokes. The ordering process was via WhatsApp, and the wheels arrived within a month. After a year of use, the reviewer is impressed, though notes a trade-off in comfort due to stiffness.
AI-Summary
Pros
- Exceptional value for money
- Wide rims (26mm internal, 34mm external)
- Light weight (~1400g for a 50mm deep set)
- Excellent at holding momentum above 35 km/h
- Very responsive acceleration and power transfer
- Stiff construction
- Easy tubeless setup with Continental GP5000 STR tires
- Hooked rim design (preferred by reviewer)
- Uses T1100 carbon fiber (marketed as stiffer/lighter)
- Hubs come with a 54-tooth ratchet (not too loud, sounds great)
- Straight-pull carbon spokes
- Good communication and service from the supplier
- Fast production and shipping (ready in 2 weeks, received within a month)
- Arrived in perfect condition
- Specs edge out other Chinese brands like Elite Wheels, Far Sports, Wind Space
- Future-proof due to wide rim trend
Cons
- Supplier (Shaman Carbon Speed) is not the most consumer-friendly or polished brand
- Ordering is factory-direct via WhatsApp, not a dedicated storefront
- Warranty (1-year) results may vary
- Stiffer T1100 carbon trades some comfort (can feel harsher)
- Requires willingness to communicate and research
- Buying internationally via channels like WhatsApp or AliExpress may not be for everyone
Key Points
- Brand: Shaman Carbon Speed (positioned as an OEM supplier)
- Depth: 50mm
- Internal Width: 26mm
- External Width: 34mm
- Weight: Approximately 1400g
- Carbon Fiber: T1100
- Rim Type: Hooked
- Hubs: In-house DT Swiss style ratchet, 54-tooth ratchet included
- Spokes: Straight-pull carbon spokes
- Bearings: Reviewer opted for steel (ceramic was an option)
- Tire Setup: Used with 30c Continental GP5000 STR (blows up to ~32mm)
- Tire Pressure: Runs about 55 PSI for comfort
- Use Case: Road, light gravel trails
- Order Method: Contact via WhatsApp, custom logos possible for a fee
- Production Time: 2 weeks
- Warranty: 1-year stated