This manual is intended for the wheel user. It covers wheel assembly, operation, maintenance, and servicing. For further information and other operations, please visit www.duke-racingwheels.com. The manual must be read and understood by the user before use. Other users should also be aware of the instructions given below.
Keep this manual for future use.
1- SAFETY
Incorrect use and assembly, as well as improper maintenance and care, can lead to accidents and serious or even fatal injuries!
The application range of our wheels is divided into several categories (XC, DC, AM, Enduro, DH, Gravel, Road...), see the classification on our website. Wheels must be used exclusively for their intended purpose. Otherwise, the user is solely responsible.
Compliance with the following instructions is essential for safe use and proper operation.
• Wheel assembly and maintenance require basic knowledge of bicycle components. In case of doubt, please contact us or your dealer.
• Wheels must be used exclusively for their intended purpose. Otherwise, the user is solely responsible.
• The maximum system weight of the wheels must not be exceeded.
• Do not exceed the maximum pressures prescribed for the wheel and tire used. See pressure chart.
• Wheels must be compatible with all parts of the bike.
• Use only original spare parts from the manufacturer.
• Wheels must not be modified or altered.
• Before each use, check that the wheels are properly secured.
• Regularly check spoke tension, warp and jump, and wheel wear.
• Check wheels for damage before and after each use.
• Do not use the wheels if they are damaged or show signs of deterioration. If in doubt, contact us or your dealer.
• Allow the brake disc or sidewall to cool before working on the wheel.
• Do not use metal tire levers. They could damage the rim surface, the tire, or the inner tube.
• Only use valves of the correct diameter and length. Do not modify the valve hole.
• Only use rim bottoms, inner tubes and tires with dimensions matching those of the rim.
Wheels and rims with braking surfaces:
Worn braking surfaces can cause sudden rim failure.
• Do not use wheels with worn braking surfaces.
• When using carbon rims, use only carbon rim brake pads.
Otherwise, the user is solely responsible!
• If brake pads have previously been used on aluminum rims, do not use them on carbon rims.
• Use both brakes at the same time.
• When braking downhill, only apply the brakes briefly but firmly, with breaks.
• Avoid brake friction or continuous braking. This will lead to overheating of the wheel and consequent failure of the rim, tire, or inner tube.
• Generally speaking, the braking performance of carbon rims is inferior to that of aluminum rims.
• Rain and new wheels or brake pads further reduce braking power. Adjust your driving accordingly.
• Carbon rims for rim brakes must not be used with latex inner tubes.
2- FITTING A TUBELESS TIRE
As we have no influence on the tires and sealing fluid used, we offer no guarantee that the Tubeless system will work.
• Make sure the adhesive tape and Tubeless valve are fitted.
• Pour sealing fluid into the tire. Follow the sealant manufacturer's instructions.
• Mount the tire according to the manufacturer's instructions. We recommend using soapy water or mounting lubricant.
• Never exceed the maximum permissible rim or tire pressure (whichever is lower).
See the pressure chart.
• Check that the tire is securely mounted. The tire must rest evenly on the rim around its entire circumference. If in doubt, have a specialist check the tire fitment!
• Reduce tire pressure to desired operating pressure.
3- MOUNTING A TIRE WITH INNER TUBE
• Make sure the adhesive tape is securely in place; it also acts as a rim base.
• Fit the tube and tire according to the manufacturer's instructions. We recommend using soapy water or mounting lubricant.
• Never exceed the maximum permissible rim or tire pressure (whichever is lower).
See the pressure chart.
• Check that the tire is securely mounted. The tire must rest evenly on the rim around its entire circumference. If in doubt, have a specialist check the tire fitment!
• Reduce tire pressure to desired operating pressure.
4- FITTING THE CASSETTE
Fit the cassette according to the manufacturer's instructions.
5- BRAKE DISC ASSEMBLY
• When using a Center Lock brake disc: fit the brake disc according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The Center Lock nut is supplied by the disc manufacturer.
• When using a 6-hole brake disc: fit the brake disc according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6- CHECKING BEFORE EAH USE
Before each ride, check that the wheel is securely fastened to the fork or frame. Make sure the clamping bolts are tightened to a torque of at least 15 Nm.
Quick test: Raise the bike so that the front/rear wheel is no longer in contact with the ground. Then tap the top of the wheel several times with force. The wheel must not come off or fall off. This test does not guarantee that the minimum pre-tension force of 15 Nm is applied. If you are not sure whether your clamp is correctly fitted, contact your dealer.
7- MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING
• Hub maintenance (see manufacturer's technical manual):
- Under normal operating conditions: every year
- Under extreme conditions of use (regular rides in dust, rain or snow, or frequent transport in the rain): every 3 months.
• Check the condition of the rims after every ride and after they have been cleaned. Rims must be free of deformation or cracks, whether in the holes, sidewalls or top.
• Check the rim tape every 6 months. It should be free of holes, deformations, and creases. Replace if necessary.
• Check spoke tension, warp and jump, and wheel wear every 3,000km.
• Check brake disc / Center Lock adapter assembly every 500km.
• Check wheels for damage after each use.
• Clean the wheels after each use with a sponge and a suitable cleaner. Rinse with a soft jet. Do not stress sensitive parts: bearings and freewheel. Do not use high-pressure cleaners or aggressive cleaners.
• Check that wheels are properly secured before each use.
• Check Center Lock adapter and brake disc for damage before each use.
• Check inflation pressure before each use.
• Check rim-brake wheels before each use:
- Remove dirt (especially traces of oil and grease) from braking surfaces.
- Check brake pads for wear. Remove trapped foreign bodies (gravel, metal shavings, etc.).
- Check braking surfaces on rims for wear:
o Aluminum rims: In the event of deformation of the braking flank, cracks, deterioration of the surface or other anomalies, the rim must be replaced or checked by a specialist.
o Carbon rims: The coating must not be worn. In the event of visible wear and/or irregular braking/braking pulsations, the rim must be replaced.
In case of doubt or visible wear, have the rim checked by a specialist.
8- BRAKING ON CARBON RIMS
Correct braking has an influence on the service life of wheels with a carbon braking surface. Please note the following points:
• Carbon wheels have a different braking behavior to aluminum wheels. Particularly on wet roads, it's important to bear in mind the reduced braking effect.
• Familiarize yourself with these different operating conditions on a lightly traveled road.
• Never let the brakes rub. Only brake hard for a short time. It's best to have long breaks between braking intervals.
• Overheating damages the carbon structure and irreversibly deforms the wheel. The risk of falling is very high.
• New brake pads only deliver their full braking power after a few braking intervals. After fitting new brake pads, consider the initially reduced braking power.
9- TRANSPORT
Correct transport will prevent damage to the wheels. Please note the following points:
• Do not apply pressure to the carbon wheels.
• Do not place any objects on the wheels.
• Transport only separately in specific panniers.
TRANSPORT ON A VEHICLE:
There is a risk of wheel damage when transporting on a rear bike carrier due to high exhaust gas temperatures!
When transporting at the rear of the vehicle, a sufficient distance must be maintained between the exhaust and the wheel. Some vehicle models require an exhaust extension or shield. Please note that exhaust gas temperature and range may vary according to driving conditions.
Protect rims before attaching tie-down straps or ratchet systems.
10- LONG-TERME STORAGE
Careful storage increases wheel life. Please note the following points:
• Do not hang carbon wheels on hooks.
• Reduce tire pressure.
• Clean wheels. Remove all salt residues.
• Remove sealing fluid. Some sealing fluids have corrosion-accelerating properties that can damage aluminum rims.
11- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Comply with legal regulations on waste disposal. In general, avoid waste of any kind, or ensure that it is recycled.
Waste products, carbon, cleaning agents and liquids of all kinds must be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.