Spoke Stories: Exciting New Composite Spoke Tech from Partington, Sapim, and Gulo

The 2026 Sea Otter Classic has emerged as a significant platform for innovation in composite spoke technology, with three notable brands—Sapim, Partington, and Gulo—unveiling new developments that promise to reshape wheel performance. Sapim, traditionally known for its steel spokes, introduced the RC-1, a lightweight composite spoke developed with Applied Fiber technology. At just 1.9 grams for a 260mm spoke, the RC-1 is considerably lighter than Sapim’s existing steel and carbon offerings, and it boasts pre-tensioning that prevents stretching, potentially enhancing wheel compliance and durability. While initially available only to original equipment manufacturers, Sapim is gearing up to produce these spokes in-house in Belgium, signalling a strong commitment to composite technology. Australian wheelmaker Partington revealed its next-generation R-Series wheels featuring continuous carbon fibre spokes designed to combine the benefits of their previous bonded ‘In-Tension’ technology with the practicality of adjustability and repairability. These new spokes form a loop with eight carbon layers and incorporate an eccentric pin system at the hub for tension adjustment, while a locking mechanism at the rim side maintains an unpunctured rim bed suitable for tubeless setups. The accompanying proprietary hub is engineered with advanced features such as needle bearings for durability, a helical spline freehub for low drag, and PEEK plastic end caps to protect carbon frames. Although the new R-Series wheels will be available from June 1, their premium price point ensures they remain a high-end option for discerning riders. Gulo, a US-based manufacturer with deep composite expertise, has expanded the versatility of its braided carbon G-Spoke technology by introducing a straight pull version compatible with a broader range of hubs, including popular carbon spoke-compatible models like Industry Nine. Their patented triaxial braided carbon spokes, which incorporate a proprietary material, deliver impressive strength and vibration reduction, outperforming many traditional steel and carbon spokes in impact resistance. The new straight pull spokes come with titanium hardware and are set to be integrated into Gulo’s wheelsets, which range from $2,295 to $2,695 and include options for 32-inch wheels, catering to the growing demand for larger wheel sizes in cycling. Together, these advancements highlight a clear trend towards lighter, stronger, and more adaptable composite spokes that challenge the dominance of traditional steel spokes in the cycling industry. The innovations from Sapim, Partington, and Gulo not only improve performance metrics such as weight, compliance, and durability but also address practical concerns like adjustability and compatibility with existing components. As these technologies enter production and reach the market, they could significantly influence wheel design and rider experience across various cycling disciplines, signalling a new era for high-performance wheelsets.