Factor Ostro VAM v2 is on order. Considering swapping out the Black Inc. 48/58 OEM wheelset for a set of ENVE SES 4.5’s. It would be ~$1,000-1,500 extra.
From what I’ve read, the ENVE’s would offer greater crosswind stability (blunt nosed rim shapes), and a smoother, more forgiving ride given internal width (25mm vs 23mm Black Inc), allowing lower pressure and better rolling resistance. ENVE’s are hookless only. Black Inc. hooked. Weight is fairly close (~1,430 g ENVE and 1,290 g Black Inc.) I plan to run 28mm tires in either case - likely tubeless. I’m 6’2" and 80.5kg and ride everything from flats to big mountain climbs regularly. It tends to be windy here in the Pacific NW!
Worth the upgrade? Is it an upgrade!?
Everyone I’ve spoken with that has the ENVE’s loves them and they look sweet. I haven’t heard much direct feedback on the Black Inc’s.
Personally never been a fan of the Black Inc branding - that said, not sure if branding is worth $1,000. I went with Farrsport wheels and havent looked back. As for the specs of the wheels, in reality you wont notice a difference between the two you’ve optioned out. Get the one that makes you smile more. If its the ENVE at the pricepoint then get them
Most people seem to ride the Black Inc wheels only if they got them with a Factor. There are better wheels for less money. They’re not bad, though.
If you want Enve wheels for the hot spinning logo, go for it. That’s what you’ll mostly be paying for at that level. You could save $1k and buy a used set. Just be sure what you’ll have left for warranty.
Good advice! I ordered the wheels with black decals, as not a fan of the loud Black Inc. branding either. I’m sure I’ll be smiling non-stop on this bike regardless of what wheels I go with!
Yeah, it’s a sister company to Factor and these wheels are specifically designed for the Ostro VAM. For sure part of the ENVE appeal is just pure sexiness. That’s all part of the fun, along with performance.
I highly doubt that the wheels are worth the upgrade. Also running 28mm tires on 25mm rims is out of ERTRRO spec… Wouldn’t ride smaller then 30mm with the en es. I also wouldn’t go hookless anymore for road wheels especially when riding below 30mm tyres on a weight at 80kg+. Optimal pressure gets pretty close to the limit.
Rumor is that the bulk of the aero improvements (8w or so?) from the Ostro VAM V1 to V2 were due to the wheels, and pretty sure the bike was designed around them, and the package is one of the most aero on the market according to the limited testing out there.
At least that’s the marketing pitch. Not sure any of us would be able to tell the difference, I’d probably lean towards a hooked wheelset on road personally.
Not worth the upgrade. You’d be paying more for a wheel set that is heavier and has more limitations on tire choice. The Enve’s tested something like 1-3 watts faster on the cycling news test depending on what yaw angle and speed you are looking at. But for 1000-1500 you could save a ton of watts spending than money on something else
Finally, as mentioned above, it is not recommended to run 28 mm tires on the Enve given that they are hookless and have a 25 mm internal width.
I would definitely agree with the others. Not remotely worth it. Hooked beads do not limit tire choices or pressure and arguably safer. Another perspective I did not see mentioned is you could also take that extra money and get a second ultralight wheel set for days in the mountains (though those Black Inc’s are definitely light enough). I’m sure there are many good climbs in the PNW. Not close to a good deal considering what the Blacks retail for in comparison the the Enve’s. Or just save the money and enjoy a great bike.
This is all very good advice and much appreciated - thanks TR community! I’ll likely stick with the Black Inc’s and give them a shot. Very excited for this Ostro VAM to arrive!
