Silk Road

Precision Asymmetry – Engineered for

Real-World Forces

At first glance, SILK ROAD’s rim may look elegant and sleek—but its form is anything but ordinary.

This is a fully asymmetric carbon rim, shaped to optimize both aerodynamics and power transfer by responding directly to the real-world forces it must endure.

Vertically:
The rim edge features a subtle, wave-like undulation, where the highest and lowest points are carefully balanced—not dramatically different, but just enough to smooth airflow and reduce wind turbulence in variable conditions.

Laterally:
The rim is offset laterally to compensate for the uneven spoke tension caused by hub geometry. Beyond simple offsetting, we reinforce the areas where spoke tension is greatest—adding carbon material and structural support to withstand pulling forces and road impacts. This not only prevents micro-cracks and structural fatigue but also improves overall stiffness and power efficiency.

We call it Power Transfer—maximizing how much of your pedaling force is directly translated into forward motion, without loss or flex.

Leading the Way in Rim Design Innovation

At NICH, we take pride in being one of the pioneers in the design of asymmetric, wave-shaped rims. From the very beginning, our commitment to innovation and performance set us apart in the market.

Today, many others have recognized the value of this design and followed suit, but we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our SILK ROAD wheelset remains a testament to the originality and craftsmanship that first set the standard.

We believe that being a leader is about more than just being first—it’s about continually evolving, refining, and improving. While others may adopt similar designs, NICH remains committed to offering the highest level of quality, performance, and unique value to our customers.

Hub Performance – Smooth, Fast, and Precise

The SILK ROAD wheelset is built around high-grade ceramic bearings, delivering ultra-low friction, better rolling efficiency, and long-term reliability.

At the heart of the rear hub is a ratchet drive system—a design trusted by elite riders and mechanics alike. Unlike traditional pawl systems, the ratchet mechanism offers:

More precise engagement with more contact points
Faster power transfer with minimal lag
Increased durability under high torque
Simplified maintenance with fewer moving parts

It’s a system built not just for speed—but for confidence on every ride.

SILK ROAD Wheelset Specifications

The SILK ROAD wheelset comes in two configurations, each designed to meet the needs of different riders—whether you’re looking for a lightweight climbing wheel or a high-speed, aerodynamic solution.

SILK ROAD 3.8 Series – The Lightweight Climber

Weight: 1270 grams
Perfect for those seeking a lightweight wheel with improved climbing efficiency, the 3.8 series features a revolutionary wave rim with an asymmetric curve, providing enhanced aerodynamics and superior wind control in all conditions.
Disc Brake Only
Freehub Compatibility: Shimano 11-12s / SRAM XDR
Hooked Rim: Clincher / Tubeless Ready
Spokes: Premium Grade Carbon Spokes, 21 spokes
Bearings: Ceramic Bearings for smooth, low-friction performance
Hub System: Ratchet PG Hub System for faster engagement and reliability
Outer Width: 28mm
Inner Width: 21mm / 23mm

SILK ROAD 5.5 Series – The High-Speed Racer

Weight: 1380 grams
For riders who prioritize high-speed performance, the 5.5 series offers a more aggressive, aerodynamic profile, perfect for high-speed descents and long sprints. Its wave rim and asymmetric curve improve aerodynamics while maintaining better control across varying wind directions.
Disc Brake Only
Freehub Compatibility: Shimano 11-12s / SRAM XDR
Hooked Rim: Clincher / Tubeless Ready
Spokes: Premium Grade Carbon Spokes, 21 spokes
Bearings: Ceramic Bearings for smooth, low-friction performance
Hub System: Ratchet PG Hub System for efficient power transfer
Outer Width: 28mm
Inner Width: 21mm / 23mm