CRW Works CS5055 Road Disc Brake Wheelset
$1,680.00 – $1,710.00
Note: The wheelset is only available with pre-order, and the wait time will be around 15-20 days.
- 1250g per set only
- 3rd gen carbon spokes
- Ceramic bearings
- 36T star ratchet
- Gorgeous UD paintless rims
- Stealth black decals
Panda Podium Review
I only have about 500km on the CRW Works wheels, but as a weight weenie - I'm in love. One of my reasons for not liking disc brake bikes is the added weight. However, disc brake wheels have the potent... keep reading
What Customers Think
- Description
- Additional information
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- Reviews (9)
Description
| Weight | 1250g±2% Front 560g Rear 690g |
| Rim Specifications |   |
| Rim Material | Unpainted high-rigidity carbon fiber rims |
| Spokes | Carbon fiber spokes |
| Hub | 7075-T6 Aluminum ceramic bearing 36T plane gear |
| Freewheel Body | Shimano HG/SRAM XDR/Campagnolo |
| Axle Standard | Front 100X12 Rear 142X12 Centerlock |
| Max Tire Pressure（25C） | 120psi |
| Max Cyclist Weight | 100kg |
Craft Racing Wheels: CS Series
Next Generation Carbon Spoked Wheels
The Craft Racing Wheels are the first of a new generation of carbon spoked racing wheels. Ultra-light disc brake specific rims that were designed from the ground up to take advantage of carbon spokes. Most carbon spoked wheels on the market lace a regular rim to their carbon spokes leaving a lot on the table in terms of wheel system optimisation and performance. The result? Shockingly light wheels. The CS4045 wheels with a 40mm deep front wheel and 45mm deep rear wheel tip the scales at a claimed 1180g. (Ours clocked in at 1176.3g for the pair.) There’s no cutting corners either. We’re talking about fat 29mm external rim width, hooked and fully tubeless or clincher compatible.
How do they do it?
So how do you make a sub 1200g disc brake wheelset? A lot of high modulus carbon, exotic alloys and a unique patented design. When you stare through the clearcoat of the rim and see the beautiful carbon construction of the rim, it’s hard not to be impressed. The hubs are equally awe-inspiring. The 7075-T6 aluminium has clearly spent a long time being CNC’d into the art piece that it is. The obsession with weight is clear when you see the dimples drilled into the freehub body. If that wasn’t crazy enough, further weight was reduced by removing half of the disc brake rotor splines. Fear not – disc brake splines are mostly for locating. If you tighten the lock rings to spec, most of the braking force doesn’t go through the splines. This is the obsession with details taken to create these wheels.
A Video Overview by China Cycling
Just how light are they?
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
1180g
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
1250g
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
1290g
Performance Driven
While weight is a huge part of performance, it’s not everything. Aerodynamics and stiffness are a key part of the equation. The carbon spokes of the CS series are especially thin to help them slice through the air. Furthermore, they’re locked in place at both ends to prevent them rotating into an un-aerodynamic position. With just 16 spokes on the front wheel there’s also a big reduction in aerodynamic drag and weight.
Many people wonder if 16 spokes are enough to deal with the huge braking forces of a disc brake front wheel. However, consider that both sides of the wheel are cross-laced spokes. This means 8 of the spokes are handling the load. Compare this to a 21-spoked wheel that uses 2:1 spoke lacing. Such a wheel only has 7 spokes doing most of the load transfer.
It’s just another example of how the wheels have been optimised to take advantage of carbon spokes and increase performance.
Specifications
CS 4045
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Brake Type: Disc
Weight: 1180g ±2%
Front wheel
Rim Depth: 40mm
Internal Rim Width: 21mm
External Rim Width: 29mm
No. of Spokes: 16
Min. Tire Size: 24mm
Max. Tire Size: 40mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 25mm
Thru Axle Size: 100 x 12mm
Rear wheel:
Rim Depth: 45mm
Internal Rim Width: 21mm
External Rim Width: 29mm
No. of Spokes: 20
Min. Tire Size: 24mm
Max. Tire Size: 40mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 25mm
Thru Axle Size: 142 x 12mm
Tubeless compatible, Hooked rim.
Freehub: 36T Star Ratchet. Shimano 11s, SRAM XDR or Camp. compatible options.
CS 5055
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Brake Type: Disc
Weight: 1250g ±2%
Front wheel
Rim Depth: 50mm
Internal Rim Width: 21mm
External Rim Width: 29mm
No. of Spokes: 16
Min. Tire Size: 24mm
Max. Tire Size: 40mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 25mm
Thru Axle Size: 100 x 12mm
Rear wheel:
Rim Depth: 55mm
Internal Rim Width: 21mm
External Rim Width: 29mm
No. of Spokes: 20
Min. Tire Size: 24mm
Max. Tire Size: 40mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 25mm
Thru Axle Size: 142 x 12mm
Tubeless compatible, Hooked rim.
Freehub: 36T Star Ratchet. Shimano 11s, SRAM XDR or Camp. compatible options.
CS 5060
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Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Brake Type: Disc
Weight: 1290g ±2%
Front wheel
Rim Depth: 50mm
Internal Rim Width: 25mm
External Rim Width: 34mm
No. of Spokes: 16
Min. Tire Size: 26mm
Max. Tire Size: 45mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 26mm
Thru Axle Size: 100 x 12mm
Rear wheel:
Rim Depth: 60mm
Internal Rim Width: 21mm
External Rim Width: 29mm
No. of Spokes: 20
Min. Tire Size: 24mm
Max. Tire Size: 40mm
Max. Tire Pressure: 120psi @ 25mm
Thru Axle Size: 142 x 12mm
Tubeless compatible, Hooked rim.
Freehub:36T Star Ratchet. Shimano 11s, SRAM XDR or Camp. compatible options.
What's Included?
Each wheelset includes:
Front wheel, Rear wheel, pre-installed tubeless tape, and tubeless valves, Each wheel also comes with a wheel build card with the spoke tension of each spoke, the serial number of the rim and hub, and the roundness and flatness measurements. Each card is signed and dated by the craftsman who built the wheel.
Warranty
Each wheelset comes with a two-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects. It does not cover the wheels from misuse or accidental damage. If you do accidentally damage your wheels, get in touch with us with your proof of purchase and we will asses the damage and find a solution to get you back on the road as quickly and cheaply as possible.
Weight Limits
The wheelsets have a 100kg weight limit. This is the system weight limit and includes rider, bike and any luggage. We test above and beyond these weight limits but users should not exceed these limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What freehub body options are there?
We have freehub options to make your wheelset compatible with Shimano 11/12s, Campagnolo or SRAM XDR options.
What bearings do the wheels use?
The wheels use high-quality ceramic hybrid bearings. The freehub body bearings are 6802, the other 4 bearings are 6902.
Which wheels are best for me?
If you like to use wider tires (28mm and above) with lower pressures, we recommend the CS5060 wheels. If you run 25mm tires we recommend the CS4045 or CS5055 wheels depending on whether you want to be optimised for weight or aerodynamics respectively.
Are the decals removable?
No. The decals are under the clearcoat and are non-removable.
What happens if I break a spoke?
The carbon spokes have a tensile strength much greater than traditional steel spokes, so the likelihood of breaking a spoke is very low. In the rare instance you do break a spoke, contact us with photos of the damage and we can supply replacement spokes and installation instructions.
Additional information
| Decal Color | Black Decals, Black Decals + White Stickers (Provide Separately) ($30.00) |
|---|---|
| Freehub Type | Shimano HG Compatible, Sram XDR Compatible, Campagnolo Compatible Campagnolo 10-12 Speed Compatible, Campagnolo N3W Compatible |
Brand
CRW Works
| Brand Name: CRW Works | Chinese Company Name: 厦门铠富特运动科技有限公司 |
| Founded: 2021 | # of Employees: 5-10 |
| Headquarters: Xiamen, Fujian | Products Categories: Wheels |
9 reviews for CRW Works CS5055 Road Disc Brake Wheelset
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Joe Whittingham –
I only have about 500km on the CRW Works wheels, but as a weight weenie – I’m in love. One of my reasons for not liking disc brake bikes is the added weight. However, disc brake wheels have the potential to be pretty light: the rim itself doesn’t have to be able to handle punishing braking forces, therefore can be built lighter than a rim brake rim. Of course, disc brake hubs are usually heavier than rim brake hubs, but as the mass is closer to the center of the wheel, it plays a far less important role than the weight of the rim.
The lightness of the rim is immediately obvious when you set off from your first set of traffic lights. The acceleration is noticeably faster than any similarly deep rims. One concern with super light rims is a lack of stiffness, however carbon spokes are working to alleviate this problem.
Another stand out feature of the wheels is the number of spokes. The front wheel has just 16 spokes. For a disc brake wheelset, that’s a lot less than normal. Less spokes means considerably less drag on the front wheel.
It’s too early to put a final verdict on the wheels, especially in terms of durability. But so far, so good. I’ll be sure to update this review when I have more miles on the wheels!
Noel Said (verified owner) –
I have just returned from a weekend in the mountains using my CRW CS5055 and I thought I would share my experiences and thoughts.
Firstly: In my opinion, I find a 34mm rim width for the 50mm front wheel in the CS5060 option is far too wide for road as it reduces aerodynamic efficiency, if you intend to compete with these wheels. For this reason, I chose the CS5055 combination as the front rim width is 29mm. If you want comfort and great handling, then go for the 32mm rim.
The 29mm wheels require a 28mm tyre for optimal aero efficiency. I tried a 26mm tyre, but the wheels are more suited to 28mm unfortunately. The tyres that I am currently trialling are the Vittoria Corsa N.EXT tyres and my colleges and I are very impressed with the suppleness, grip and wearing of these tyres. The combination of the CRW wheels and Vittoria N.EXT tyres are truly excellent. I tested these tyres on coarse dead and rough roads and yes, this combination is comfortable. In fact, the most comfortable that I have ever experienced on a road bike.
The handling of these wheels with these tyres is incredible. I completed 3 x 1000m plus descents on this wheel/tyre combination hitting speeds in excess of 70km/h and broke PR’s on all three occasions without any risk whatsoever. These wheels/tyres have taken my descending to the next level.
For climbing the CS5055 wheels are more than capable for climbing. They don’t feel as snappy as my tubulars, but they are stiff and respond wheel. I would love to try the CS4045 next time I hit the mountains.
In terms of cross wind stability, I weigh 58kg and I find the additional width of the wheel provides more than enough stability and I would rate them a little better than my Hyper50s.
In terms of speed: In my opinion, nothing is as fast as a 20mm wide V shape rim but good luck in handling them in cross winds. Lol These 50mm rims are as fast as any other 50mm U shape rim. If you want more aero benefits get a deeper rim (simple as that).
The wheels look fantastic but for time trials in particular I would consider a thinner wheel in order to use a thinner tyre.
My score 10/10 but I would like to see an optional even lighter narrower wheel and a choice of a 29mm rim for the CS5060 combination.
I hope you too enjoy your wheels if you choose to buy them.
CanyonJdeB (verified owner) –
Gorgeous out of the box. Shipped crazy fast. Couldn’t be happier. By them. Some details: I am 6’1″ 180lbs, riding a new Canyon Ultimate. Current tires are Conti 5000 S TR, 28 front and 32 back…..have put in about 10 rides of 30 to 80 miles…a lot of climbing but also one long flat ride…love the wheels, no comfort issues (perhaps the 32 in the back is helping). Conti tires mounted easily with no levers (well the front was a little challenging). Handling is great…no cross wind issues at all. I would gladly have taken a 60mm instead of the 55 in the back. My riding buddy bought hypers the same week and he is drooling over these. There were some loud pings (two or three times) from the rear hub under very high watt efforts the first couple rides, but it resolved and PP was VERY responsive to my questions about it. The disc rotors lined up perfectly with no need to re-center the calipers so the hubs are almost if not completely interchangeable with the DT 180s. I put a different cassette (11-30) on these wheels from my DT SWISS climbing wheels (11-34), and had to make a small trim adjustment to the rear derailleur (two clicks on Shimano dura ace), so I can’t tell if the free hub spacing is spot on the same.
Blake Gillmer (verified owner) –
From Start to finish of the buying to riding process I can’t speak highly enough of the team at Panda podium. After reading and watching pages and hours of reviews on these wheels I took the plunge and bought a set. I currently run a set of Hooked Zipp 303 NSW from 2018. When I got the delivery and the box arrived the wheels present beautifully and give you a sense of quality. Once unpacked and tyres on and installed on bike they ran smooth as silk and I was really surprised at how nice they felt. I have only had a small issue with the front rim and its bearings which had play in them. I reached out to the team here at Panda Podium and they have given me a solution and I can’t say some of the big brands would do as quick and promptly as these guys and girls have. I will be considering buying another set in a different depth. Thanks again team and keep up the great service and products.
Meng Ngai (verified owner) –
If you’re looking for a game-changing upgrade to your bike, look no further than these super light, fast, and responsive CRW 50/55 wheels. I recently purchased these wheels and was blown away by their performance and build quality. Despite their incredibly light weight, they are built to last and can handle any terrain with ease. Plus, their quick response time and agility allow for effortless turns and maneuvering, giving you complete control over your ride. Don’t settle for an average cycling experience – invest in these top-of-the-line wheels and take your ride to the next level.
glenn.mcfarlane (verified owner) –
I purchased the CRW CS5055′ s late February 2024. Wheels arrived quickly and were boxed excellent. Wheels weighed in at 1270g. Nice finish on the rims (including the beads)and hubs. The spokes very nice, bearings are smooth. Continental GP5000 in 28mm creates a flat or even transition to the rim. Wheels are stiff enough when cornering. My Bora’s in 35mm depth are stiffer though. Not by a massive amount but noticeable. The CRW’s ride smoothly, not like they “float” like some YouTubers say, which is sort of ridiculous or maybe they just had previously really harsh riding wheels. Overall I am very happy with the wheels as they do all they should do. I have put just over 500Km on them.
glenn.mcfarlane (verified owner) –
Update to my previous review
I have put in another 300Km (approximate) into these. My experience with the wheels have improved. Now that I am more comfortable and willing to challenge them a bit more, the wheels appear to be up to the task. I settled on a 4.6bar/67psi pressure for both front and rear with 28mm GP5000 clinchers and RideNow TPU tubes. I don’t like the “pogo” feeling when sprinting if I use less pressure. 67psi seems to be a good compromise. My weight is around 66Kg/146lbs. Solid wheels so far and I look forward to putting thousands of Km’s on them.
Dominik Lugmair (verified owner) –
i bought these wheels together with a new Tavelo Attack frameset.
Now time for a short review after riding them for about 6.000km, around Vienna, on cobbles, on sharp short hills, on windy flats, on alpine Italian mountains.
in short…wheels perform absolute flawless. still true and running smooth, no worries concerning harsh rides over cobbles and even some km on flat tire.
now i cannot tell if the ride is super stiff or harsh or whatsoever…depends by a good amount on tires/pressure.
i run them with 28mm tires around 5bar…(82kg/192cm).
would i buy them or similar again? absolutely!
not to mention the outstanding service and communication of PandaPodium
Thomas Jones (verified owner) –
These are beautiful wheels – light, responsive, fast, stiff, and smooth, I couldn’t ask for more. The service from Panda Podium was great.