Aluminum wheelsets occupy a peculiar position in the current market—overlooked by riders chasing carbon depth charts, yet still the practical choice for training miles, gravel exploration, and builds where replacement cost matters more than marginal aerodynamics. The Ritchey Comp Zeta Disc Wheelset V2 operates in this space with a 22mm internal rim width that accommodates modern tire sizing from 28mm road rubber through 45mm gravel treads, paired with hub internals designed for seasons of use rather than single-event optimization.

The aluminum rim construction delivers what carbon alternatives often struggle to match: predictable brake feel and heat management during extended descents, along with impact resistance that doesn't require constant inspection after rough pavement encounters. Ritchey machines these rims with a hookless tubeless-ready profile, eliminating the pinch-flat risk that accompanies inner tubes while allowing lower pressures for improved traction and compliance. The 22mm internal width provides enough air volume for confident handling on loose surfaces without ballooning narrower tires into aerodynamic inefficiency.

Center Lock rotor mounting on both hubs accommodates the current disc brake standard, while the freehub body accepts Shimano HG 11-speed cassettes out of the box. The V2 designation indicates Ritchey's second-generation design for this wheelset, refining hub engagement and bearing placement based on field feedback from the original Zeta release. Sealed cartridge bearings in both hubs protect the load-bearing surfaces from water and grit ingress that accumulates during wet-weather training.... Read More