The Ksyrium Pro UST Front Wheel is the leading half of the signature Ksyrium series wheel, carbon or aluminum. While now seriously updated, the high tension, 605 gram rear wheel is pretty recognizable. The UST tubeless system is most welcome, and several features come with it. The rim width has been expanded to a modern 24mm external width (17mm internal) which adds air volume and perfectly supports the now standard 25mm tire, but feel free to go bigger (up to 32mm). Wider rims are the new norm, and for good reason. Handling, aerodynamics and strength are all improved. If speed, power, precision, responsiveness and low rolling resistance suit your preferences in a versatile road wheel, the Ksyrium Pro UST was made for you.

The rim technology doesn't start or end with UST. The 24mm profile rear Maxtal alloy rim is FORE drilled, meaning the exterior wall is threaded for an alloy nipple insert that delivers extra strength at the spoke/rim interface for the high tension system. In addition to greater strength, FORE drilling means a rim strip not required- with a tubeless valve in place, this ideal for tubeless use. Mavic engineers apply the proprietary ISM4 process to the rim itself. The ISM4 acronym stands for Inter Spoke Milling 4 Dimensions and refers to the new sculpting and shape of the rim. Improvements here are across the board with highlights being a weight savings of 50 grams (rotational), Lowered inertia and improved aerodynamic profile. As with all Maxtal-based rims, precision braking is assured with a welded and machined seam (SUP Joint) and a machined braking surface (UB Control).

The standard 100mm wide quick release, 18H front hub is machined from aluminum to reduce weight and maintain stiffness. The design is strong, with cleaner, more aero flanges than previous models. An oversized alloy axle is light and stout, set up to space out the bearings as far as possible, while carrying the latest QRM bearings, the QRM Auto, which as you might imagine has an automatic adjustment system to ensure the longest life of the low friction, sealed cartridge bearings. The smooth sure ride delivers impeccable handling even at the greatest stress limits.

The spokes are the now mythical Zicral aluminum, bladed, straight pull models, with the FORE alloy nipple on the far end, and laced in the radial pattern that ensures this front wheel is one of the stiffest lateral designs every offered. The sleek flanges are set-up with Mavic's floating spoke retention for straight pull spokes. Envision a hard impact on the rim that pushes down the spokes, which if they don't give in some way, can result in rim damage. By allowing the spokes to slide a little, Mavic does all they can do to prevent this.

This Ksyrium Pro UST Rear Wheel is a true WTS (Wheel Tire System) series wheel. While compatible with tubetype or UST tubeless ready tires, it is clear UST is the story, and frankly more advantageous. UST is a true standard, and mastered by Mavic. The short bed and rounded hook hold UST Tubeless tires in a perfect seal, allowing you to run 700x25-32 tires at 110psi max, but in reality, you will run lower pressures to create better grip and feel, while preventing all but the most serious pinch flats. Sealant can certainly be used, but if you are using UST rims and UST tires, you'll be shocked at how well the system seals.

Mavic provides their 260 gram, 127 TPI Yksion Pro UST tire in a 700x25. It can be run with a tube or as tubeless. This single compound tire features 11 Storm rubber (via Hutchinson), which has very low rolling resistance, and easy, fast speed. The best performance of the tire is when run tubeless, and just 30 grams of sealant serves to seal the deal and close out small punctures. Despite the stringent requirements of the UST system, the Yksion Pro UST Tire also installs much more easily than most road tubeless tires due to the more flexible Kevlar bead. A directional tread sits within the rubber, siping away water from the center and ensuring grip in the corners, wet or dry, while a bead to bead polymide breaker adds protection.

The Ksyrium Pro UST Front Wheel is a race-level clincher wheel that can ridden everyday. Keep in mind that just a stallion may not be quite as relaxing to ride as a quarter horse, the high-tension aluminum spoke system will keep you awake. The UST tubeless benefit may actually best understood in terms of comfort thanks to the lower normal riding pressure, but make no mistake, this wheel is a stallion. It corners like an knife, with incredible hold and stability, but you have to guide it and hold the edge. If you seek a true high performance, lightweight alloy everyday clincher wheel to bring out your best skills and courage, pair this Ksyrium Pro UST Front Wheel with it's front sibling for a 1420 gram wheelset that will take your breath away.