With the increase in 29er’s, wheelset options have also increased. In the past, options were limited but now there are quite a wide range of 29er wheels for every application and budget. The Easton XC Two 29er wheelset came as standard equipment on the Kona King Kahuna I reviewed this Spring. As a mid-level wheelset, they performed admirably.
Easton XC Two 29er wheels specs:
- Convertible front hub (9 or 15mm axles)
- Standard 6-bolt disc mounts
- 17mm rim width
- 24-count spokes F/R in 3-cross pattern
- Saphim straight-guage spokes
- Brass nipples
- Weight: 1998 grams
- MSRP: $449
Easton XC Two 29er Wheelset Review
As standard equipment on the Kona King Kahuna I tested earlier this Spring, the Easton XC Two 29er wheelset performed well on both the Kahuna and the Rocky Mountain Altitude 29er. Looking them over, the XC Two is a nice-looking package with a convertible front hub that can accept both 9mm and 15mm axles. I tested them with the 15qr axles on both bikes.
On the trail, the XC Two’s run without too much fuss. I felt like the engagement was adequate for the price range, but not spectacular. With more higher-end hubs, you can get increased pawls for faster engagement, but most people will not mind these as I was able to stop and start my cadence around obstacles without much hesitation.
With 29er wheels, you get more leverage, so wheel strength is readily-apparent. These tracked great overall with only a little bit of noticeable rear-wheel flex when pushed hard at speed. Mine were mated with the Kenda Small Block 8 tires and I was able to throw them around on a variety of trails. Slaloming through singletrack, these wheels were reactive and confidence-inspiring.
Good XC Two
- Nice-looking package top-to-bottom
- Has stayed straight and true after being abused on two bikes
- Excellent value
- Convertible front hub (mine were 15qr only)
- Easily-serviced hubs
Bad XC Two
- Could be a more torsionally-stiff (24 spokes may not be enough for these big hoops)
- Narrow 17mm rim profile limits tire selection
- Is a tad heavy
Bottom Line: Easton XC Two 29er Wheelset
These mid-level wheels from Easton bring a solid package for those with a budget ($309 at JensonUSA at press time). You can spend more to get a stiffer wheelset, but these will perform admirably and leave enough in your wallet for other upgrades.
