Era SL Wheel Explained
Era SL Wheel Explained
What makes Era SL the definitive downcountry wheel?
Get Racing.
Get Rowdy.
Compliance In The Vault
Long Live Downcountry.
Not your typical XC race wheel. Not a strength-forward Enduro wheel. Era SL is the happy medium, designed specifically for the mass of riders who sit happily in between. Era SL is built for Downcountry. Lifetime Warranty, crashes included.
Era SL Wheels
Rider Style
Specs
| Color | Black |
| Includes | 5 extra spokes included with rear wheels |
| Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Nipples | Black alloy nipples |
| Int Rim Width | 29mm |
| Rotor Mount | 6-bolt and Centerlock options available |
| Front Hub Model | 15x110 Boost – Vault 415 |
| Front Hub Endcap Compatibility | Vault 415 hub – 15x110 Boost (F60100) / 15x110 Boost Torque Cap (F60122) |
| Rear Hub Model | 12x148 Boost – Vault 424 12x157 Super Boost – Vault 422 |
| Rear Hub Endcap Compatibility | Vault 424 – 12x148 Boost (F60063) Vault 422 – 12x157 Super Boost (F60063) / 12x150 (F60066) |
| Spoke Offset | 3mm |
| Tubeless | Tubeless ready, taped with valve |
| Weight | 29" CL - 1494g / 29" 6-bolt - 1530g |
| Weight Conditions | Wheelset without tape or valves |
| System Weight Rating | 130kg (286 lbs) |
| eMTB Usage Rating | 6-bolt - 65Nm of Torque / CL - not eMTB approved |
| Spoke Length 29" | Front: 303mm, Rear: 303mm |
| Spokes | Straight Pull, 28 hole, 3x lacing, 2.0/1.5/2.0 Butting |
| Max Rear Wheel Travel | 140mm |
Frequently asked questions
Are these wheels suitable for both XC and trail riding?
Yes, the Era SL wheels are engineered specifically for the “Downcountry” category, bridging the gap between lightweight XC racing efficiency and the durability required for technical trail riding.
Key features that make them versatile for both disciplines include:
- Weight Efficiency: At just 385 grams, the carbon rim is the lightest Race Face has ever produced, allowing for rapid acceleration and climbing momentum essential for cross-country.
- Trail Durability: Despite the low weight, the 22mm rim depth and robust carbon construction are designed to handle technical terrain and impacts confidently.
- Optimized Compliance: The wheel design provides lateral compliance that helps smooth out small bumps and reduces rider fatigue, which is highly beneficial during longer trail sessions.
- Tire Support: With a 29mm internal width, these wheels comfortably support tires up to 2.6 inches wide for enhanced traction and stability on aggressive trails.
Does the lateral compliance improve overall ride comfort?
Yes, the Era SL wheels are engineered with specific lateral compliance to smooth out small bumps and trail chatter. This design feature provides two primary benefits: 1. Reduced Rider Fatigue: By dampening vibrations, the wheels help keep you fresh during long days in the saddle. 2. Efficient Power Transfer: Despite the comfort, the carbon layup maintains the stiffness necessary for high-performance XC climbing and acceleration.
Does the warranty cover damage from crashes?
Yes, the Era SL Wheels are backed by a comprehensive Lifetime Warranty that specifically includes coverage for damage sustained during crashes, giving you peace of mind while riding aggressive terrain.
How durable are these Era SL carbon wheels?
The Era SL wheels are engineered to balance lightweight XC performance with the rugged durability required for technical Downcountry and trail riding. They are built to handle rough terrain while providing a responsive, compliant ride that reduces fatigue. Their durability is backed by:
- Robust Engineering: Designed with a 22mm rim depth and 29mm internal width, these wheels are built to withstand the demands of aggressive trail use and accommodate tires up to 2.6 inches.
- System Reliability: The wheels are laced to the proven Vault hub, known for its large-diameter bearings, 3-degree engagement, and efficient power transfer.
- Lifetime Peace of Mind: Race Face stands behind the quality of these wheels with a comprehensive Lifetime Warranty that explicitly includes damage sustained during crashes.
How many spokes are included with the wheels?
Each wheel features 28 spokes with a 2.0/1.5/2.0 butting and a straight pull head type. Additionally, 5 extra spokes are included with rear wheels for convenience.
Are the wheels tubeless ready?
Yes, the Era SL wheels are tubeless ready and come taped with a valve included, making setup straightforward for a tubeless tire system.
Lifetime Warranty, Crashes Included.
Crashes are part of mountain biking. When they happen, we have your back.