FFWD Wheels Frequently Asked Questions

We hope this section will help to answer many of your questions.  However, if you still need more information please contact us.

General

Are your wheels tubeless compatible??

Yes from model year 2019+, the complete FFWD clincher wheel line-up is tubeless ready designed and manufactured to strict ETRTO/ISO tolerances.  Tubeless ready models are delivered with pre-installed tubeless rim tape, valves and padded wheel bag (excludes TYRO model).

Hooked rim models like the RYOT series, RAW and  TYRO can be setup with standard inner tube and tire or as tubeless.  The DRIFT gravel models are hookless and only compatible with a tubeless setup.

You can review the Tubeless Setup instructions here.

Are your tubeless rims hooked or hookless??

Current tubeless ready rims are designed and manufactured to strict ETRTO/ISO standards.  FFWD employs a hooked bead seat rim design on all tubeless ready clincher wheels EXCEPT the gravel specific DRIFT model which utilizes a hookless rim design for tubeless only use.

Read the recommended Tubeless Setup instructions here.

What are the differences between the FFWD Ratchet Hub and DT Swiss 240 EXP??

The RYOT series and DRIFT models are offered with 2 hub options – the FFWD Two/One 36 tooth ratchet hub and the DT Swiss 240 EXP hub.

FFWD Ratchet Hub

The FFWD ratchet hub offers a very solid and reliable technology without compromising on quality and durability all at a very reasonable price. The FFWD Two/One Ratchet hub features stainless steel sealed cartridge bearings, a 2:1 lacing pattern, straight pull spokes, centerlock rotor interface and 36 tooth ratchet engagement system.  12mm thru axle standard and the optional adapters for quick-release or 15mm thru-axle are available.

If you would like to save extra weight (70g/set) in combination with higher precision and stiffness,  then the DT 240 hubs with the improved EXP ratchet system may be the choice.

DT Swiss 240 EXP

Perhaps one of the most iconic hubs ever made. DT240 is well known for its durability and maintenance free use. Since MY21 the ratchet system used in the 240 hubs is updated to the EXP version as well. The 240 hubs make use of stainless steel sealed cartridge bearings and sealed end caps. The bearings and end caps offer great benefits when used in offroad or wet conditions like gravel and CX. The DT240EXP hubs are available in RYOT and DRIFT wheels. FFWD DT Swiss 240 EXP hubs are developed specifically for FFWD in a custom matte black finish and 2:1 spoke ratio for maximum stiffness and equal spoke tension.

You can view the available models featuring the FFWD and DT 240 EXP hubs at this link.

What are the differences between the RYOT and TYRO models??

The RYOT series is offered in multiple rim depths of 33, 44, 55, and 77mm and feature FFWD’s proprietary LAW Tech aerodynamic profile offering superior aero efficiency and stability.  In addition the RYOT series is offered with 2 hub options – the FFWD Two/One 36 tooth ratchet hub and the DT Swiss 240 EXP hub.

The RYOT series offers:

  1. External rim widths of 30-31mm
  2. Internal rim width of 21mm
  3. Hooked rim design compatible with inner tube or tubeless setup
  4. Aero optimized for 28mm (labeled) tires
  5. DT Swiss Aerolite and Competition bladed spokes
  6. 2:1 spoke lacing pattern
  7. Lighter system weights
  8. Delivered with padded wheel bag

The TYRO is a budget friendly model that is built to last with quality components, the primary differences from the RYOT series are as follows:

  1. Available in rim brake or disc brake model
  2. 29mm external and 21mm internal rim widths
  3. Hooked rim design compatible with inner tube or tubeless setup
  4. Round Sapim Sprint spokes
  5. FFWD 36 tooth ratchet hub with 1:1 spoke lacing pattern
  6. Slightly heavier system weight
  7. Does not included padded wheel bag

You can view the available models at this link.

Are your disc brake wheels 6 bolt or center lock??

FFWD disc brake model wheels are built with center lock straight pull hubs requiring a center lock rotor and lockring.  If you prefer to use a 6 bolt rotor there are center lock to 6 bolt adapters offered by manufacturers such as Shimano and DT Swiss.

What type of rotors do I need for my disc brake wheels??

Disc brake model wheels are built with DT Swiss or FFWD Two/One straight pull ratchet hubs offering superior quality, performance and durability.

Each hub model is equipped with a centerlock rotor interface.  They will require compatible centerlock disc rotors (Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo, SwissStop etc) and threaded lockrings.   We offer rotors and lockrings as optional items in our parts section here.

Can the DT Swiss 240 EXP Hub use QR or 15mm TA??

Yes, the DT Swiss 240 EXP 12mm thru-axle disc brake hubs can be converted to QR using DT Swiss end cap conversion kits. 15mm thru-axle conversion is NOT available for the 240 or 180 EXP hubs.

A list of the corresponding DT Swiss article numbers are listed below:

Front 5/100mm: DT Swiss part# HWGXXX00S8852S

Rear Shimano 5/135mm: DT Swiss part# HWGXXX00S7446S

Rear Campagnolo 5/135mm: DT Swiss part# HWGXXX00S2766S

Rear SRAM XDR 5/135mm: DT Swiss part# HWGXXX00S2760S

PLEASE NOTE: The 240 EXP hub is not compatible with 15mm thru-axle and is unable to be converted.

For more information on compatibility you can also contact DT Swiss Support at techusa@dtswiss.com or the DT Swiss support page here.

Can the FFWD Two/One Hub use QR or 15mm TA??

Yes, the FFWD Two/One hub can be converted from 12mm thru-axle to QR front and rear or 15mm front.

Available end cap conversion kits are available in the spare parts section at this link.

What accessories come with FFWD Wheels??

Disc brake model wheels come with standard accessories that include: Padded wheel bag and pre-installed tubeless rim tape and valves (clincher models).

Rim brake model wheels come with standard accessories that include: QR skewers, padded wheel bag, SwissStop Black Prince carbon brake pads and tubeless rim tape and valves (clincher models).

Are FFWD Wheels 11-12spd, SRAM XDR or N3W compatible??

Yes, FFWD wheels are compatible with the latest 11-12 speed Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo drivetrains including SRAM XD and XDR.  The DRIFT gravel models are also compatible with Campagnolo N3W 13 speed EKAR drivertrains.

What tire widths can I use on my FFWD Wheels??

FFWD’s latest LAW Tech equipped models such as the RYOT series and RAW are optimized for wider tires with recommended tire width of 25mm or 28mm.  The models are compatible with 25mm-42mm tire widths.

FFWD’s DRIFT gravel specific wheel model with hookless rim design is compatible with tubeless only tires from 30mm to 60mm.

FFWD’s proprietary DARC aerodynamic rim profile is designed and optimized for a 23mm tire width.  However a broad range of tire widths can be used on all models.  For clincher wheels tire widths of 21-40mm can be used to accommodate a wide range of disciplines.

Tubular models are compatible with 19mm-45mm wide tires.  For a complete listing of models and compatible tire widths you can view the Wheel Specification Chart listed on the Downloads page.

What's the difference between DT350 and DT240??

Our current FCC (carbon clincher) wheel models are available with 2 hub options, DT350 or DT240 straight-pull, manufactured by industry leader DT Swiss.

The DT350 is a very reliable hub at a great price point, the DT240 is a higher-end hub approximately 50g lighter and is made in Switzerland.  Each hub offers DT Swiss’ patented 18T rear star ratchet system for precise cassette engagement which can be upgraded to 36T or 54T ratchet system aftermarket.

Our latest models such as the RYOT33, RYOT44, RYOT55, RYOT77, RAW and DRIFT utilize DT Swiss’ newest DT240 EXP and DT180 EXP hubs.

What rim brake pads are recommended??

We work closely with SwissStop for research and testing of FFWD rims and brake surfaces.

For carbon clincher and tubular wheels, SwissStop Black Prince pads ship with each wheel and are recommended.  SwissStop Yellow King pads may also be used.  We do not recommend using alternate pads with our rims, this will void the warranty.

For FFWD aluminum clinchers, we recommend SwissStop BXP or Original Black or an appropriate brake pad for aluminum rims.

Can I use carbon specific pads for my alloy rims??

No, it is not recommended and will void the warranty.

There are two very important reasons:
1) The brake pads we supply with our wheels are for carbon rims only, because of the special compound of which the pads are made.  This compound mix is not suitable for optimum brake performance on alloy surfaces.

2) It is also very important to keep the brake pads that are used for alloy rims separate from the ones used on carbon rims.  Alloy splinters can accumulate on the pad when braking.  When you use these pads on carbon rims, the splinters will scratch the carbon and possibly damage the fibers.  This is an important safety issue which must be avoided.

How can I find the hub model used in my wheels??

To determine what FFWD hub model has been used on your wheels, you can view our Hub Identification page here.

What does FCC, R or D mean on your wheel models??

FCC means full carbon clincher rims.  These are tubeless compatible full carbon rims with hooked rim bead suitable for all clincher hooked tires both tubeless and standard tube/tire.

Models that are denoted with an R such as F4R are rim brake compatible wheels, models denoted with a D such as F3D or F6D are disc brake compatible wheels.

As an example a model such as the F4R FCC is a F4 45mm deep full carbon clincher for rim brake bikes.  The F6D FCC model is a F6 60mm deep full carbon clincher for disc brake bikes.

Furthermore each model wheel is available with 2 hub options by DT Swiss.

Are FFWD wheels tandem rated??

Yes, due to our rim technology, components and artisan hand building techniques select FFWD wheels are rated for tandem use and are widely used around the globe with elite and national teams in time-trials, road racing and on the track.

If you have specific questions or would like help selecting the best option for your intended use, feel free to contact us.

Is there a weight limit for FFWD FCC wheels??

The FFWD full carbon clincher wheels have been thoroughly tested in all areas of road cycling.  With field-testing on different terrains and lab tests for brake performance, the FFWD rim brake carbon clinchers and 3K Nano Brake Technology have proven to be strong and durable.

The F4R, F6R and DISC FCC models are strong wheels that are technically able to handle riders up to 265lbs (120kg).

However, not all terrain and riding style suits the use of full carbon clincher rim brake wheels.  Depending on the combination of factors like rider weight, riding style, and typical terrain (flats, rollers, mountains) the best suitable wheel set can be selected from our range.

We are happy to help you with that choice, feel free to contact us.

How Competitive are FFWD wheels with regard to weight??

Actually, FFWD wheels are very competitive with regard to weight.

We demand more from our rims then we would if we designed for lower spoke tensions or if we imposed rider weight limits.  Our wheels are built with DT Swiss components and brass nipples offering the best quality, performance and durability.

Furthermore, we feel that a small weight increase for a superior wheelset that will offer better performance and reliability is of much greater importance than being the lightest on the market.

What is FFWD's philosophy on weight vs aerodynamics??

FFWD’s focus is on fast durable wheels. We don’t consider weight to be of equal importance although we of course try to make the wheels as light as possible within our strict quality and performance standards.

You can learn more about our proprietary LAW Tech aerodynamic profile here and DARC ‘Double Arc’ aerodynamic rim profile and testing here.

I see FFWD Wheels online, are these real??

Purchases made via 3rd party auction sites or from overseas parties do not carry a valid US warranty and may be counterfeit.  Websites such as alibaba.com, aliexpress.com and other websites offer counterfeit products and these sellers are not authorized.  In these instances buyer beware!

Authenticity and service can only be guaranteed by purchasing FFWD wheels through this website or our network of authorized dealers.

If your local dealer does not currently carry FFWD Wheels, please have them visit this link!

WHEELS/RIMS/HUBS

How Should I Mount Tires on FFWD Tubeless Ready Wheels??

You can find our recommended tubeless wheel setup instructions at this link or a short setup video at this link.

What size tubeless tape should I use on my rims??

Tubeless ready wheel models (2019+) require use of either 25mm or 27mm tubeless rim tape.  Tubeless rim tape is required regardless of a standard tube/tire or tubeless setup.  Please refer to the listed specifications under each product detail page.

Can I convert my DT Swiss Hubs to TA or QR??

Yes, DT Swiss offers a wide selection of end cap solutions to convert your DT350 or DT240 hub from QR, 12mm thru-axle or 15mm thru-axle.

For more information on compatibility you can also contact DT Swiss Support at techusa@dtswiss.com or the DT Swiss support page here.

My wheel is damaged from an accident, do you offer crash replacement??

Yes as part of our after-sales service and support, FFWD offers a 5 year crash replacement program.

For specific information on CRP please visit this link.

What is your warranty policy??

Please visit this link for specific service and warranty information.

What hubs are used in FFWD Wheels??

FFWD designs and builds wheels with the highest quality components available.  Hubs are from DT Swiss or internally developed models.

Rim brake models are offered with FFWD 36T Ratchet 20/24 straight pull hubs.  Disc brake models are offered with a FFWD Two/One, DT Swiss 240 EXP or 180 EXP 24/24 straight pull center lock hubs.

For a complete list of hubs used in FFWD Wheels and related parts information you can visit this link.

How can I find bearing sizes for my hubs??

FFWD designs and builds wheels with the highest quality components available.  Hubs are from DT Swiss or internally developed FFWD models.

Bearing sizes used in the various hubs can be found at this link (.pdf)

For a complete list of hubs used in FFWD Wheels and related parts information you can visit this link.

How do I clean my FFWD Wheels??

Carbon wheels require routine maintenance to ensure a long lifetime of performance.  You can view our maintenance video here or download our carbon wheel cleaning instructions here or under our Downloads page.

Is the Five-T wheel directional??

Yes, the Five-T is directional and should be installed on the bike with the widest part of the bladed spokes as the leading edge facing forward similar to an airfoil or airplane wing.

Do you offer ceramic bearings??

Ceramic bearings are not standard for our wheelsets but can be installed by your local dealer.  FFWD wheels use DT Swiss hubs offering easy serviceability and standard bearing sizes that are widely available on the aftermarket.

How can I find spoke lengths used on my wheels??

FFWD builds all spoked wheels with Sapim CX-Ray or DT Aerolite bladed spokes and DT brass nipples which are widely available and easily replaceable if necessary.  To determine the spoke lengths used in your wheels, visit the Tech Specs section on the Downloads page under Support.

What makes FFWD rims unique??

We use a combination of very high-quality Toray carbon fiber sheets for the majority of the lay-up.  This gives the rim a very high strength with sufficient stiffness to cope with hard application of the wheels.  So, rather than use a stiffer, but more brittle carbon type, we chose durability over ultimate stiffness.  In some lay-ups we add some higher modulus sheets to increase stiffness locally.  Additionally, each rim shape is proprietary with intensive R&D and testing leading to the final product.

Read more about our wheel technologies here.

SALES & SUPPORT

What is your return and exchange policy??

You can find our return and exchange policy at this link.

How do I track my order??

You can track your order at this link or if you setup an account during your purchase you can login to your account to view order details here.

Do you offer financing??

Yes, we offer financing through Affirm.  You can learn more at this link.

What is your warranty policy??

You can find details of the FFWD Wheels warranty policy at this link.

What are the website terms and conditions??

Terms and conditions can be found at this link.

What is your privacy policy??

Privacy policy information can be found at this link.