After viewing the all new American Classic 420 wheelset dubbed the "Aero 3" in Eurobike at the end of last season I must admit to a wave of excitement within. Having been a fan of the "classic" 420 wheelset from engineer Bill Shook, I had been on board a set for the previous three years but must admit was looking for a replacement that would deliver the same speed I had grown accustomed to from the 420's.
Now having taken delivery of a set of the new Aero 3's the changes are as deep as these American Beauties rim profile and now seems the package has caught up with the velocity the 420 is known for.
Shook has completely redesigned the rear hub utilising an all new pattern comprising of grouping the spokes in 3's delivering a rear wheel where all spokes end up having the same tension on them. Another feature Shook is particularly proud of is the all new steel edged casette body that utilises thin steel plates attaching to the lightweight alloy splines eliminating the casette from biting into them. The casette body then attaches to the patented 6 pawl cam actuated engagement plate which ensures all six pawls engage at once for drive quality and reliability.
Weight on this fast rolling wheelset is a touch over 1500g deilvering a true race feel on training rides as well as race day and one that has to be experienced to be believed. (checkout test ride options by contacting your local dealer. - ed)
To finish the package off AMC have lifted the finishing and graphics package to match that of their European counterparts with faultless red anodizing on the hubset and a black or white rim option for those running with the white being the new black theme.