Stan’s Alpha 400 rims push the envelope of weight without concessions in strength — we can go lighter but not without hurting durability. Being deliberate about spoke count and spoke model, the same rims can be tuned for each rider. The first set is built with Sapim Race spokes, 24 front and 28 rear, which makes for a sturdy build.

The second set is built with Sapim D-Light spokes on the front and rear drive side with Sapim Laser rounding out the rear. This set is 20 spokes front and 24 spokes rear, which, as the scales show, makes for a 1453 gram alloy wheelset. Less stiff but a hoot in their own way.