Limitless aero technology, purpose-built to take on the biggest expeditions.

42 DEEP | 36 WIDE EXT | 25 WIDE INT | 1642G

The Purpose

The 42 Limitless Gravel Adventure offers race proven class-leading aerodynamic performance, with build specifications tailored for fast, loaded ultra-adventures. Developed for our HUNT Beyond supported athletes and aimed squarely at delivering wins in the world’s biggest ultra-endurance races such as the Tour Divide, Unbound XL and the Silk Road Mountain Race.

Sofiane Sehili, Beyond Athlete and one of the worlds top Ultra-cyclists has not only been involved in the development and testing of the wheelset but recently rode them to victory in the inaugural Bright Midnight Ultra-race in Norway, covering 1040km of mixed terrain in an unbelievable time of just 2 days and 3 hours. This is real world testing at its finest.

The rear wheel has been updated to include our all-new H_Ratchet hub system at the centre of a 28-spoke build with J-bend spokes and brass nipples, to ensure maximum durability when exploring the most remote corners of the globe while carrying the gear and provisions required to keep you moving fast for days on end.

Includes FREE H_Care lifetime crash replacement for the first owners of these wheels. Read all about it here.

Wind Tunnel Proven

The wind tunnel data we recorded is shown against the full range of world-class aero wheels. The results below depict HUNT's standing among the range (the 3T Discus 45|40 was not available to test, as it was not released to the public when testing occurred).
Further results are shown in the white paper attached; the 42 Limitless Gravel wheelset offers riders the benefit of industry-leading aerodynamics ahead of industry incumbents but balanced against the clearly superior stability as measured above.

Full Wind Tunnel Tests

As a general rule, when comparing two aerodynamically profiled rims, deeper shapes will provide greater aerodynamic benefits. When studying equipment choices at premier gravel events, it was apparent that riders generally favoured shallower rims, presumably to achieve light weight, compliant ride characteristics and crosswind stability; all at the expense of substantive aerodynamic gains. The vibrational losses associated with deep rim profiles, along with the energy lost fighting hours of crosswinds, can cause fatigue over long racing distances. After testing a number of shapes and depths, HUNT identified the opportunity to develop the ideal solution: an extra-wide, aerodynamically optimized 42mm profile with outstanding crosswind performance and low relative weight.

Understanding Crosswind Stability

During testing, we monitor various elements of aerodynamic performance, including side forces that act on the rims, and the effect those forces have on the steering moment (a tool for measuring crosswind stability). As with our previous projects, our wheels are tested through a range of effective yaw angles between negative 20 degrees and positive 20 degrees.

In real world riding conditions, wind does not distribute forces evenly. The frequency of effective yaw angles experienced by a rider follows Gaussian distribution (bell curve), based on the variables of wind direction and speed, as well as rider direction and speed. Simply stated, low yaw angles have a greater probability of occurring in real world riding conditions than high yaw angles. According to well-referenced data from scientific and industry sources, "a vehicle will spend at least 70% of the time at yaw angles below 10 degrees." (Cooper, 2003). In the context of riding, the rider will spend approximately 42 minutes experiencing yaw angles between negative and positive 10 degrees over the course of an average one-hour ride.

In the chart below, the steering moment is tracked on the Y-axis, while the Yaw Angle is tracked on the X-axis. A flatter curve across the X-axis represents less impact on the rider's steering and stability. We are able to deduce from these results that the 42 Limitless Gravel has the smoothest steering moment relative to the other wheels tested. Whether descending or going flat out on unsheltered roads, the rider will spend less energy fighting against crosswinds, leading to a faster, more comfortable, and more efficient ride.

Wind Tunnel Data

The wind tunnel results below depict the performance of HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel wheels among a range of world class aero wheels commonly used in competitive gravel racing. The data suggests that the HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel is the most aerodynamic gravel wheelset, offering the rider a small power gain of 0.05W, or 6 seconds of advantage when compared to the next best ranked offering over the course of a 200-mile race averaging a speed of 32 km/h and power output of 317W (Note: the 3T Discus 45|40 was not available to test, as it was not released to the public when testing occurred).

With the use of patented Limitless construction, HUNT was able to create a wheelset that offers an extremely wide rim profile with a truncated edge (blunted spoke bed) to help airflow remain attached to the system, while maintaining low overall weight and providing day-in and day-out performance and durability on the harshest gravel roads.

HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel Disc Schwalbe G-One Wind Tunnel Data

HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel Disc Teravail Cannonball Wind Tunnel Data

The wind tunnel data HUNT recorded is shown against the full range of reputable aero wheels in the chart below. The results below depict the performance of the 42 Limitless Gravel wheelset among the range.

Using the aerodynamic force data from wind tunnel testing sessions, it is possible to calculate the average aerodynamic power to derive the time needed to cover a certain distance. In this case, the authors have calculated the time loss based on 200-mile race.

When it comes to quantifying performance, the use of Power (Watts) has become the norm, calculated in its simplest form, this is:

𝑃 = 𝐹𝑣 (1)
Where,
F = force acting against the forward motion
v = velocity of object

The Aerodynamic Force to overcome drag obtained from the wind tunnel being:
𝐹d = (p * cd * v2 * A) / (2)
p = density of fluid
Cd = coefficient of drag
A = reference Area (often frontal area)
However, the power required to maintain a rider’s speed is dependent on many other forces:
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 = 𝑃! (𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑔) + 𝑃) (𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒) + 𝑃* (𝑓𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛) + 𝑃+ (𝑠𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑒) + 𝑃, (𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛) (3)

This is now a complicated equation that is very dependent on the conditions and not possible to solve from wind tunnel data alone.

Calculation of Power and Time Loss
Hyp: a 32km/h (8.88 m/s in S.I. units) speed is considered and a professional rider producing an average power of 317W over the 200 mile (321 km in S.I. Units) Dirty Kanza Course.
Therefore, the propulsive force on the pedals is:
𝑃=317 𝑊
𝐹= 𝑃𝑣= 3178.88=35.7𝑁 (1)
In terms of grams of force 1g = 0.00981 N, so:

36 𝑁=3638,96 𝑔
Assuming aerodynamic drag (Fd from wind tunnel results) as the only resistive force, the propulsive force (Ftot) to maintain the rider’s speed can be calculated using:

Ftot = ΔFd + F (4)
The values of F and P are now known. Therefore, by manipulating equation (1) it is possible to calculate the time it would take to complete 321 km:

𝑃=𝐹 𝑣=𝐹𝑡𝑜𝑡∗ 𝑠 / 𝑡

𝑡= (𝐹𝑡𝑜𝑡∗𝑠) / 𝑃
Where s is the distance (m)

Read Less

The Purpose

Includes FREE H_Care lifetime crash replacement for the first owners of these wheels. Read all about it here.

Wind Tunnel Proven

Full Wind Tunnel Tests

Understanding Crosswind Stability

Wind Tunnel Data

Read Less

Key Features

Class-leading Limitless aerodynamic performance. Built to go the distance, while going fast.

Wind tunnel proven to offer the lowest aerodynamic drag among tested gravel-specific wheelsets under 50mm depth, offering the rider up to .12 Watt savings over renowned competitors, and 16.8 Watt savings over non-aero gravel wheels.
Rims | 700c Designed by HUNT's in-house engineering team, HUNT Limitless Technology delivers industry-leading cross wind stability verified by smooth steering moment data proven in wind tunnel testing. 25mm internal and 36mm external widths, and a 42mm u-shape profile.
Bearings | Super-smooth Revo bearings offer fast rolling performance. Dual full-contact seals and long-lasting, heat-resistant grease protect against water ingress for longer service intervals.
Tires | Designed around a 25mm internal rim width optimized aerodynamically for 38-42c gravel tires. Feature a hooked tire retention design for safety, fully ETRTO-compliant and tubeless-ready. To see recommended widths and pressures, see full specs here.
Hubs | Center-lock New H_Ratchet double-sided system (with two floating ratchet rings). With a 40t ratchet ring resulting in just 9˚ engagement. The freehub benefits from H_Ceramik anti-bite coating to ensure maximum durability. If you require a 6-bolt adapter you can purchase separately here.
Elliptical Wing Spokes | J-bend Pillar Wing spokes with aerofoil profile. Tested and proven to provide aerodynamic advantage over flat or bladed options both from Pillar and other competitors.
Axles | Easily adaptable & we fit them for you. Fit all current axle sizes and are easy to change. Click here to see all axle sizes.
Hand-built | All of our wheels are built and finished by hand, inclusive of a full quality control inspection.
Included | Tubeless tape & valves, spare spokes, axle adapters (please fill in the simple form after checkout to select your required size).
Weight | 1642g
See the full specs here

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Full Specs

Rims

Wind tunnel tested, aerodynamically optimized for 38-42c tires
Hooked
H-lock bead-seat up-kicks for easy and secure tubeless installation
Unidirectional T24/30 carbon fiber with 3K weave re-enforced spoke holes
36mm outer and 24.5mm inner width
42mm depth
Matt black base finished with matt white contrasting graphics

Spokes

Pillar Wing with Aerofoil
24 front and 28 rear interlaced
Aero Butted 2.0-2.2/0.95-2.0 then PSR section is 2.2
J-bend for durability and ease of replacement
Cold drawn from high grade T302 (18/10) stainless steel wire by Sandvik Sweden
Patented Pillar Spoke Re-enforcement, butted again just before the spoke head providing more durability in high stress area
Black stainless treatment

Nipples

Brass for corrosion resistance
Square body for external adjustment and hex head for easy internal adjustment/tensioning
12mm Length
14 gauge
Black finish

Tires Info

HUNT recommends a 38-42mm tire for best performance, tire widths between 29mm and 64mm are also safe to use.
You must not exceed the maximum tire pressure limits set out in the table below or the maximum limit set by your tire manufacturer if this is lower.

Note: best performance is usually gained by using tire pressures lower than the maximum, you can see our blog post here about this.
Tubeless-ready for lower weight and rolling resistance.

Axle Sizes

These wheels are available with all existing disc brake road bike axle adapter sizes. We fit the axles you need, just complete the simple form shown after checkout:

Front: 12x100mm Thru-Axle, 15x100mm Thru-Axle, 9x100mm Thru-Axle, Quick Release 9x100mm
Rear: 12x142mm Thru-Axle, 12x135mm Thru-Axle, 10x135mm Thru-Axle, Quick Release 9x135mm

If you are unsure what size your axles are don't worry it also includes the option to tell us your bike model and we will find out and then fit the correct axles, plus we're happy to change them later at our cost if you don't quite get it right. Please note; this form is shown after you have completed your order.

Front Hub

Forged and CNC’d 7075 heat-treated aluminum alloy hub shell.
6066-T6 aluminum alloy axles.

Center-lock disc mount. If you require a 6 bolt adapter you can purchase separately here.
Polished anodized black finish with laser graphics.

Rear Hub

H_Ratchet 40t ratchet ring for 9˚ engagement
H_Ceramik freehub body reinforcement coating provides excellent durability and protects against cassette sprocket damage to the freehub often seen on standard alloy freehub bodies.

All freehub standards accounted for.
Hunt Race Season Disc straight-pull super-light alloy.

7075 heat-treated aluminium alloy hub shell.
Center-lock disc mount. If you require a 6 bolt adapter you can purchase separately here
Polished anodized black finish with laser graphics.

Bearings

Super smooth Revo precision bearings with proprietary waterproof grease, specially developed for even the worst weather.
Sealed cartridge replaceable units
Dual full-contact seals

Warranty, HUNT Rolling Road Tests & Weight Limits

These wheels come with H_CARE (Free Lifetime Crash Replacement) for the first owners. Read all about it here.

A full 3 years from purchase date warranty is offered to the original purchaser only on all HUNT wheels against material or workmanship defects, please click here to read full details.

All HUNT wheels models have to pass our harsh cobbled-rolling-road tests for rider weight limits, please see here for more details. Max system weight 130kg (system weight – total weight of fully kitted up rider, bike and luggage). If a rider is over 105Kgs then an experienced bike mechanic should check the wheel regularly. We are cyclists ourselves and do of course go above and beyond to offer excellent service if you ever do experience any issues. We carry full spares at very reasonable prices and offer complete support.

60 Day Ride & Return Period. We are certain you'll be impressed by the acceleration, low-weight, speed and durability of our wheels. We are cyclists and as such strive to offer class leading service and support. Buy with confidence, if for any reason you wish to return the wheels for a full refund of your order you can do so up to a full 60 days after you receive them whether they have been ridden or not. Please note we cannot offer refunds on wheels that have suffered from crash damage but do offer H_CARE (Free Lifetime Crash Replacement) on these wheels.

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HUNT 50 Carbon Aero Disc Wheelset | Previous Model IC259

HUNT 50 Carbon Aero Disc Wheelset | Previous Model IC259

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