The world of cycling has seen a continuous rise in the popularity of e-bikes in recent years. At Light Bicycle, we've been keeping a close eye on e-bike trends and developments. Using the technical expertise gained over many years, we decided now was the time to develop our first e-MTB-specific rim, the EH935S.
Designed To Last
Compared to conventional mountain bikes, e-MTBs have increased system weight, which means larger loads, higher torques, and far more physical strain on wheels. With that in mind, we set out to build the strongest rims we've ever created, while ensuring a comfortable and compliant ride quality for long adventures out on the trail.
The Chassis: Engineered for Comfort
Because overly stiff wheels can often lead to a fatiguing ride, we've found that a good amount of vertical compliance can help make light work out of the toughest downhill trails. The EH935S features a wave-shaped silhouette based on our proven S-Flow profile, offering a prowess that will reduce fatigue over trail chatter for even longer days in the saddle.
The Strongest Rim We've Ever Developed
E-MTB and DH riders are running wider tires than ever due to the excellent traction and stability they offer. A range of 30 to 35mm inner rim width is typically a good match for modern wide-track tires, and after thorough research and discussion we settled on a 35mm inner width for the EH935S to suit a wide range of tire sizes from 2.5'' to 3.1''.
The inversely proportional relationship between impact resistance and compliance makes choosing an ideal depth challenging, and the addition of our S-Flow profile provides yet another dimension with its peak-to-valley design. Based on the 35mm inner width, we drafted proper depth ranges for the peak and valley respectively, while keeping a specific height difference between them for more even spoke tensions. Among dozens of design examples, we selected several of the profiles with the most performance potential. Our FEA (Finite Element Analysis) software came in handy when comparing the selected designs, and we discovered that the 23mm/28mm depth combo are the ideal dimensions for the EH935S.
Symmetric or Asymmetric?
Mountain bikes benefit from asymmetrically profiled rims, which help to even out spoke tensions between the disc and the drive sides of the wheel, but symmetric rims are inherently more solid in structure as much less material is required to achieve the same strength benchmark. We opted for a symmetric design in this case to carry no weight penalty.
Does the trade off for less even spoke tensions make the EH935S a compromised design? Thanks to the two different ERDs (at the peak and valley of the rim profile) in the fundamental S-Flow shape, we're able to adjust the spoke lengths and angles of each side to achieve equalized spoke tension.
Hybrid Hook
Designing a performance-based rim that's been rigorously tested has been our goal since setting out on this project. Inspired by the pros and cons of hook and hookless bead types, we came up with a unique hybrid hook for the EH935S. This innovative design ensures easy tire installation and more importantly, secure tire seating, greatly reducing the risk of tires coming off the rim however technical the terrain.
Coming Soon
Our engineers have been working relentlessly on the EH935S since last November. With designs finalized and testing nearly complete, we look forward to an October launch for the new rim!
Stay tuned for more information about the features and technology that went into the EH935S as we near the official launch. If you'd like to be a part of the continuing development of this exciting new rim, please help us out by completing the survey below!
Put Your Touch on the EH935S
We deeply value your perspective as a rider. Your feedback will be used to help complete our latest labour of love.
Thank you for taking the time to help us improve. Let us know in the comments or via email (sales@lightbicycle.com) and live chat if you have any questions.
SHARE NOW:
Get in touch
Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions or suggestions on our products or other issues.
Please leave your name here.
E-mail is required for further contact.
Please enter a message.
Your Cookie Preferences
We use cookies to improve your experience on this website. You may choose which types of cookies to allow and change your preferences at any time. Disabling cookies may impact your experience on this website. You can learn more by viewing our Cookie Policy.
Cookies required to enable basic website functionality.
Cookies used to understand how the website is being used.
Cookies that are used to enhance the functionality of the website.
Cookies used to deliver advertising that is more relevant to your interests.
