Nukeproof Launches Horizon PRO Wheels

Nukeproof has a proud history in creating high performance hubs and wheels. Right from the legendary carbon shelled Atom Bomb Hubs in the 1990’s through to more recent Neutron and Horizon wheelsets. Launched in 2020, the current Horizon V2 wheelsets have elevated Nukeproof wheels to the next level of performance. The V2 has been tested at the highest level, between the tape at both the Enduro and Downhill World Cup with the Nukeproof-SRAM Factory team. It has gone on to become a huge favourite with ranks of privateers and riders. Key reasons include the strength, reliability, and serviceability of the V2. But here at Nukeproof, we are always looking for the next step in performance.

Nukeproof Horizon PRO Wheel Highlights

• Rim Material: Alloy Nukeproof Blend
• Spacing: 148mm x 12mm Boost
• Inner Rim Width: 30mm
• External Rim Width: 35mm
• Rim Height: 21.6mm
• Spoke Count: 28h
• Spoke Type: Straight Pull Double Butted 2.0mm - 1.8mm - 2.0mm
• Nipple Type: Alloy 14mm
• Lacing Pattern: 3x
• Disc Mount: 6-Bolt
• Tubeless Ready: Yes – Pre-taped and valve supplied
• Weight: from 1766 grams (27.5", set)

Designed as an all-new wheel set created for riders who are looking for the ultimate alloy trail wheel. Using the Horizon V2 as a base, our designers took a fine-tooth comb to the Horizon V2 to make several incremental improvements. The main aim of the PRO was to reduce rotational mass and make a lighter wheelset for trail and enduro riders and racers. 

The result is a ground up design and all-new front and rear wheel. The PRO wheels are lighter, more compliant and using an all-new high performance ratchet engagement hub for the rear wheel. In raw terms, the Horizon PRO saves riders of our V2 wheel sets approximately 9-10% (depending on wheel size combination). All the improvements make the Horizon PRO perfect for Trail and Enduro riders searching for the ultimate alloy wheelset.

New Nukeproof Horizon PRO Hub

At the heart of the Horizon PRO is an all-new hub housing the new 54T engagement ratchet mechanism. Why move to a ratchet system? For both size and weight. The compact dimensions of the ratchet system allow for reduction in the overall size of the hub. Less material means a reduction in mass. There are also performance benefits from a ratchet system. A fast and smooth engagement with a reduction in lost energy in the hub.

To further reduce the overall dimensions of the hub, we chose to use double butted straight pull spokes (2.0mm-1.8mm-2.0mm). These spokes allow for the optimising of the hub shell dimensions by machining away any unrequired material. With the new ratchet system, engagement of each tooth is simultaneous, distributing the force are now across a larger surface area spread evenly. By doing this wear is reduced ensuring reliability. The overall result is a sleek shell looks sunning and hugging the new internals and a hub that is durable and reliable.

Horizon PRO Freehub Driver Options

• SRAM XD
• Shimano HG
• Shimano Microspline 

Hand-Built and Tensioned

To further reduce weight, we have reduced the spoke count of the wheels. This is thanks to the increased tension and strength by using straight pull spokes (vs a J-Bend), the overall spoke count can be reduced to 28.

The Horizon PRO rim is made from dynamically aged Magnesium-silicon enriched alloy blend. This alloy produces the stiffness and hardness like 7-series, but with the ductility and yield properties of a 6-series alloy. Each rim is sleeved to join to ensure a strong and consistent level of strength around the rim. Each Horizon PRO wheel is laced by hand in a 3x spoke pattern. Overall, this gives means the Horizon PRO offers an incredible blend of stiffness, compliance, strength, and weight. Both 29” and 27.5” wheels are available.

The Horizon PRO rim is designed to offer maximum strength, comfort and grip from 2.3" to 2.5" tyres. Numerous lab and trail tests led to the use of a 30mm internal width rim to optimise the tyre profile of most modern tyres.

Available in 12x148mm Boost only. To support spare parts for riders, the front and rear wheels share the same rim and straight pull spoke design. Each rim has a tough anodised black sandblasted finish with silver decals to match the hub.

Enduro ABEC 5 Bearings

After extensive testing with various brands of bearings, Nukeproof chose to use Enduro ABEC 5 bearings in this front wheel. These bearings have the “LLU/LLB” seal type, which uses two lips that make light contact in a groove to create a labyrinth where the water or dirt has a more difficult time to penetrate.

LLU seals are similar, only the contact pressure or interference fit is greater to improve the seal. Enduro bearings have 80% grease fill on both sides This delivers full coverage, removing any dry pockets and avoiding metal on metal contact or wear. Note: the axle may feel tight when new but will free up after when ridden.

What's Included in the Box?

All wheels are sold individually, allowing riders to pick wheels to suit their frame set up. Horizon PRO wheels come pre-taped with a matching silver Nukeproof Horizon tubeless valve installed. The tubeless valve supplied is a Nukeproof Horizon Tubeless valve which is compatible with Nukeproof ARD (and other rim protection/ inserts brands).

 All riders need to do is fit a tyre of choice and add sealant.

To back rider up a full range of spare parts, hub, freehub conversions kits, spokes, rims and maintenance tools are available.

Weights

The key design aim for the Horizon PRO was to reduce rotational mass and the overall weight of the wheelset. A pair of 27.5” wheels are 10.67% lighter, 29/27.5” at 9.25% lighter, with a 29/ 29” wheelset being 9.4% lighter than our Horizon v2 wheels.

When?

Horizon PRO wheels are available now and will be heading out to Nukeproof retailers over the coming weeks - if you are interested check out your local Nukeproof retailer or online. 

Pricing

Front, MSRP: £229.99 / USA $299 / Europe €264.99

Rear, MSRP: £369.99 / USA $399 / Europe €429.99

For more information, hit up www.nukeproof.com.

View key specs, compare products, and review Nukeproof wheels in the Product Guide.