Ambrosio 120 training wheels reviewed

These new Ambrosio wheels have one foot in the future and one foot in the past. What’s forward-looking about them is their design and multi-purpose applicability.

First of all they’re wider, with a 20mm internal width and a 24mm external width; secondly, they’re compatible with tubeless tyres; and thirdly, they’re ever-so-slightly aero thanks to their flat-bladed spokes and 27mm rim depth. So, although they’re ostensibly road wheels, their suitability for wider tyres run at lower pressures means they could just as easily be run off-road.

What’s anchoring them in the past, however, is the fact that they’re designed for rims rather than disc brakes. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, at least for the time being. But it seems odd given that the rest of the i20’s specs are so in line with the trend for go-anywhere, multi-use, adventure bikes that, typically, use disc brakes.

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Nevertheless, these are decent wheels with a lot going for them. Without a cassette, quick-releases, tubes or tyres they weigh 1,775g (818g for the front, 957g for the rear) and their width produces a tyre profile that’s less pinched-in. With 25mm tyres (in this case Michelin Power All Seasons inflated to 100psi) the wheels felt smooth, stable and swift – even over tarmac broken by tree roots.

They may not be future-proof but they’re not too heavy, not too slow and not too expensive. So just right, especially if you’re looking for a great pair of winter training wheels.

Verdict: Go-anywhere, do anything wheels at a competitive price 90%

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Contact : rsi-cycles.com