BEST Carbon SPORT 60 road wheels review: a budget race wheelset for speed merchants

BEST’s Carbon SPORT 60 wheelset offers a compelling option for riders seeking a budget-friendly carbon race wheel. Positioned as an entry point into carbon wheel ownership, the 60mm deep rims combine a lightweight design with carbon spokes, a feature rarely found at this price. Backed by Scribe Cycling’s infrastructure, BEST aims to deliver performance without diluting the premium Scribe brand, making these wheels an attractive proposition for speed enthusiasts looking to upgrade without breaking the bank. Constructed with a blend of T700 and T800 carbon, the rims feature a modern, wide profile measuring 24mm internally and 32mm externally, designed to accommodate wider tyres and provide aerodynamic benefits. The use of straight-pull Alpina carbon spokes helps keep the total weight just under 1,600g, impressive for a wheelset of this depth and cost. Although the carbon spokes are lighter, they are not as aerodynamically efficient as high-quality steel alternatives, and the lack of wind tunnel data leaves some questions about their precise aero performance. The wheels also feature tubeless-ready rims and come with Shimano and SRAM freehub options. On the road, the Carbon SPORT 60 wheels deliver a responsive and direct ride, though their depth can make handling more demanding, especially in windy conditions. Testing in challenging crosswinds on Gran Canaria revealed that while the wheels were more stable than expected, they still require greater rider focus compared to shallower alternatives. This trade-off between speed and control is typical for deep-section carbon wheels, but the BEST wheels manage to strike a balance that will satisfy many riders seeking performance gains on a budget. Scribe Cycling’s founder, Alan, emphasises that BEST is part of a long-term strategy to broaden access to carbon wheel technology without compromising the Scribe brand’s premium status. This approach could signal further developments in affordable carbon wheelsets, potentially expanding options for riders at different levels. With a system weight limit of 120kg and a straightforward spares policy, the Carbon SPORT 60 wheels combine practical features with competitive performance, making them a noteworthy contender in the value carbon wheel market.