Table of Contents
In part 1, we looked at the Roval Fusee Star wheels, in this review we give the Fusee E5 wheels a going over and compare them to the Star and a pair of Campagnolo Electron wheels. We give you our opinions on the Roval wheels and the performance of those and our usual wheels by Campagnolo.
We give the Fusee wheels a trial over our usual test course of climbing, descending and cornering, with a flat section thrown in for good measure. Our course has it all to test wheels and rider, the wheels as always came out better than the rider.
Technology
As with the Star wheels, we will start with the technology: these wheels are quite standard in comparison to the star wheels, no BIG Star-shaped flange, just a regular small low profile hub, beautifully cold-forged in gold color. The axles are adjustable for extra smoothness and maximum rolling on the bearings. The E5 alloy low profile seamless rim is used again with a 21mm width and a 24mm depth and a perfect braking surface without any imperfections in the machined sidewalls.
DT Aerolite bladed butted spokes are used, 20 radially on the front, and the 24 in the rear are eight radially on the non-gear side with a small flange and 16 crossed twice on the gear side coming out of a gear side larger flange.
The Look
I must say I prefer the look of the Fusee E5’s. Maybe I am “old fashioned,” but these wheels look light and fast, minimalist is the word that comes to mind. The hubs are small and unobtrusive. The spokes are slim and sleek, and the rims are strong and have an aero profile. They look very smart and would be the weapon of choice for any course profile, except perhaps cobbles and very rough road conditions.
The Performance
The Roval Fusee E5 wheels are lighter than the Star wheels. They also climb the steep bends that I found a little sluggish with the Stars. Therefore, weight is noticeable on a climb. I also noticed a difference in the crosswind section. There was no feeling of a side pressure that I found with the Star wheels. On the flat into a headwind, I still think the Star wheels came out on top. They did seem to cut through the wind more easily.
And The Comparison?
Comparing the Roval Fusee Star, Fusee E5, and the Campagnolo Electron was not easy as all are top quality wheels. The performance of the E5 and the Campagnolo wheels was so similar that I couldn’t tell the difference. They are both light and fast, climb well, and rode with a crosswind without any problems. Cornering with the E5’s seemed to be a little sharper and more precise than the Campagnolo Electron. Now the Star wheels felt slow on steep climbs. It didn’t feel too good in a crosswind. When riding into a headwind, they cut the air like a knife. On a descent, they were surer in their performance. The problem is to come down. You have to go up first, and that is harder to work with the Star wheels than with the others.
Our Conclusion
If you want fast all-round pair of wheels then go for the Roval Fusee E5 wheels. They have everything you need. They perform well in all conditions. E5’s roll smoothly and ride comfortably, the look is traditional and they match any frame colors or designs.
Given a choice, I would go for the Roval Fusee E5 as you can use them anywhere in most conditions. The best thing about both pairs of wheels is the hub bearings. They are super smooth and the braking surfaces of the rims are faultless and give no worries on the fastest of descents.
I like the look of the Roval Star wheels. They rode well, except where I live it’s very hilly, so I need a pair of wheels that can help me climb, sinceI need as much help as I can get to fight against gravity.
If you are interested in any of the specialized wheels, take a look at their website: specialized.com – Equipment – Road Components.
Marks out of ten: –
Roval Fusee Star Wheels.
The Roval Fusee E5 Wheels 9.
