Elitewheels’ parent company initially was as an OEM carbon wheel manufacturer. The Elitewheels brand itself emerged around 2015–16 after founders Tony Tong and Jack Chen expanded from carbon rim production into in-house hub development and complete wheel manufacturing.
The company’s major milestones include becoming a leading carbon wheel seller, expanding global service networks and sponsoring UCI-level teams. Elitewheels became an official wheel sponsor of GCN in 2024 and announced a 2025 partnership with UCI ProTeam Team Solution Tech–Vini Fantini.
Elitewheels’ speciality is carbon wheels across road, gravel, triathlon and MTB. It positions itself as a value-performance manufacturer: premium-style features, in-house production and direct pricing below many Western mainstream brands.
Pro Reviews of Elitewheels
Summary of what we found & feedback from Industry as of mid 2026
Cyclists Hub praised Drive II wheels for rapid acceleration, stiffness, improved crosswind stability and better support for wider tyres. The reviewer also noted a firmer ride on rough roads and flagged long-term bearing durability as something to watch.
In The Know Cycling described the Drive 50D II as a strong value-carbon choice, praising its climbing response, lateral stiffness, high-speed cornering confidence and sidewind stability. It also noted only average comfort, especially compared with more compliant wheelsets.
Hambini’s technical review found the Drive II mechanically stiff and well designed, with competent but not class-leading aerodynamics.
Elitewheels: Rider Reviews, Pros and Cons
Typically based on published reviews and forums. These can sometimes be skewed one way or another, but we tried to focus on the genuine and objective praises and concerns.
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Feature Product Showcase
Typically one or two products we love and are featuring. If the product is available at our store it will be listed below the article.
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Drive II 50DThe Elitewheels Drive II 50D is the headline road wheelset. It uses a 50 mm rim depth, 23 mm internal width, 31 mm external width, carbon spokes and a new Kinetic 50-tooth conical-ratchet hub. Its target segment is the performance road rider who wants race-ready carbon wheels without spending Zipp, ENVE or Roval money. The 50D is the all-rounder; the 36D suits lighter climbers and gusty conditions, while the 65D is for riders who like their wheels deep and their crosswinds character-building.
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Alternatives?
Head-to-head comparison of select alternative to consider. Honestly, the hardest part of the writeup. Whatever we pick, chances are we will be criticised, but hopefully a starting point.
Where Elitewheels Wins?
Finally, a local Perspective
Is the product suitable for Aussie roads? Why or Why Not?
