Magene EXAR DB508 Ultra Dark Wheelset HG (2026)
The Magene EXAR DB508 Ultra Dark Wheelset (HG) is a performance‑focused carbon wheel upgrade built for riders who want real speed on the road without sacrificing stability and comfort. Designed specifically for disc brake bikes, this wheelset uses a modern aero rim profile and a distinctive lower front / higher rear rim concept (50 mm front, 58 mm rear) to balance confident steering with strong momentum and efficiency when you’re riding at pace.
At the core of the Ultra Dark design is a fully integrated approach using HI‑MOD T800 carbon fibre in both the rims and the carbon spokes. This keeps weight low while maintaining high stiffness for sharp accelerations and responsive handling. The result is a wheelset that feels quick off the line, holds speed well in fast group rides, and remains predictable when the wind picks up—ideal for everything from training blocks to racing and weekend bunch sessions.
Built for modern tyre sizes and comfort
With a 30 mm external rim width and 23 mm internal width, the DB508 Ultra Dark is optimised for today’s wider road tyres and the real‑world benefits they bring. Running 28–32c tyres (the suggested range) helps create a smoother tyre‑to‑rim transition and a more stable contact patch, improving ride comfort and grip while still supporting strong aerodynamic performance. The rim is hooked and compatible with both clincher and tubeless tyres, giving you the flexibility to run tubes for simplicity or tubeless for puncture resilience and lower pressures.
Carbon spokes and balanced lacing for efficient power transfer
The wheelset uses HI‑MOD T800 carbon fibre spokes (claimed 2.8 g each) and a 2:1 balanced lacing pattern designed to distribute tension effectively, especially at the rear wheel. This contributes to the wheelset’s stiffness under load and helps maintain a solid, direct feel when climbing out of the saddle or sprinting. Rear tension is specified at 130 kgf ±10% (drive side) and 110 kgf ±10% (non‑drive side), with the front at 110 kgf ±10%.
Fast engagement hub with durable 36T ratchet
The hub system uses a 36‑tooth flat ratchet for quick, positive engagement and a large contact surface intended to improve durability. This supports precise pickup when accelerating repeatedly—useful in rolling terrain, corners, and surges. A 54T ratchet option is noted as available separately.
Shimano HG freehub installed, with upgrade options
This version ships with a Shimano HG 11‑speed freehub installed, making it a straightforward upgrade for many Shimano road drivetrains. If you run other drivetrains, SRAM XDR and Campagnolo N3W freehub bodies are available separately.
Key specs (quick reference)
- Brake type: Disc only
- Rim height: 50 mm front / 58 mm rear
- Wheelset weight: 1390 g ±3%
- Max rider + bike system weight: 110 kg
- Rim width: 30 mm external / 23 mm internal
- Rim type: Hooked; clincher + tubeless compatible
- Tyre compatibility: 25c and above (recommended 28–32c)
- Spokes: HI‑MOD T800 carbon fibre (2:1 lacing)
- Ratchet: 36T (54T option sold separately)
- Axle: 12×100 front / 12×142 rear thru‑axle
- Freehub supplied: Shimano HG 11‑speed installed
- Other freehubs: SRAM XDR and Campagnolo N3W available separately
- Bearings: Standard