HUNT SUB50 on test

HUNT’s latest addition to the family, the aero, lightweight SUB50 wheels, boast state-of-the-art technology: wide, hookless rims and carbon spokes, combined with specially developed hubs. But how does the flagship version with ceramic bearings stack up against the competition in our big aero wheel group test?

**Hunt** SUB50 | € 2,789 | 1365 g | Manufacturer’s website

We tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test – click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.

The HUNT SUB50 wheelset is fresh out the wind tunnel, making it the newest and most up-to-date wheelset on test. It doesn’t just boast all the latest innovations, but also features aerodynamics optimised for wider tires, and offers many hidden details that make it stand out from the test field. It’s interesting to see wheels from the British brand that are so clearly focused on racing performance, too. Until now, HUNT have made a name for themselves with their affordable ultra-endurance wheels. However, they’re clearly targeting the road racing scene with the SUB50, taking it up with the likes of the very similar looking and similarly specced CADEX 50 Ultra.

No compromise – The specs of the HUNT SUB50

The SUB50 is one of the lightest wheelsets on test, weighing in at just 1,365 g, though it can’t quite match the extremely light CADEX 50 Ultra. In fact, they’re separated by a full 50 g. HUNT achieve this weight thanks to carbon spokes and an extremely slim hub. However, some of that weight is reinvested in the 50 mm deep and up to 34 mm wide rims, putting them amongst the beefiest wheels on test. Like Roval, HUNT rely on a wide, very bulbous rim at the front and a skinnier, more slender geometry at the rear. The aim is to make the best use of the different aerodynamic conditions at the front and rear.

**Well thought out**
With a wide rim up front and skinny version at the rear, HUNT hope to achieve the optimum balance between minimum weight and aerodynamic optimisation.

**Fancy**
The lettering on the top of the SUB50’s rim flanges shows HUNT’s typical attention to detail!

**Carbon everywhere**
Carbon spokes result in stiff and fast wheels, which is what counts on modern high-performance bikes

For maximum efficiency, the flagship model on test comes equipped with CeramicSpeed bearings. Given the price of € 2,789, HUNT offers some remarkable features, especially compared to some of the much higher-priced competition.
The look is classic HUNT, with the prominent branding and subtle pinstripes on the rim as well as small lettering on the rims’ edge. This makes for a very classy impression that matches well with almost any bike. As for the guarantee, Hunt offer the first owners their H Care program, which includes lifetime crash replacement. In contrast to other manufacturers, HUNT cover all the costs involved and, if in doubt, replace the wheels free of charge – exemplary!

**Missing something?**
HUNT rely on a hookless design for the SUB50. This controversial approach is claimed to provide more stability and improved aerodynamics.

**Minimalistic**
The specially developed HUNT hubs are optimised for maximum weight savings, and it shows!

No more ultra endurance – The HUNT SUB50 on test

Similar to the CADEX wheels, the HUNT SUB50 are amongst the stiffest models on test. Ideal for sprints and fast starts, be it on the climbs or when accelerating out of corners. They also provide an extremely precise and fun riding experience on the descents. On the flip side, the HUNT SUB50 wheels are lacking in compliance. It remains up for debate whether this is a necessary evil on high-performance road bikes, but even the pros appreciate a little more comfort on long races or stages. The perfect wheels for local crit races then? That conclusion would be underlined by the freehub, which is the loudest and most aggressive sounding on test. In this regard, the wheels from both CADEX and HUNT are like shrieking siblings.
However, there’s a difference in their performance in crosswinds. Compared to the CADEX models, HUNT’s carbon spokes are slightly narrower, providing better handling and control in crosswinds.

Aero performance and results from the wind tunnel

The HUNT SUB50 show impressive potential in terms of aero performance. They’re fast on the straights and offer a good sail effect, exceeding what you would expect from 50 mm deep rims. This was also confirmed in the wind tunnel. The SUB50 set is roughly on par with the CADEX 50 Ultra and the surprisingly aerodynamic DT Swiss ERC, but about 3.5 watts behind the test winning Syncros Capital SL Aero. The effect of HUNT’s wheel design can be seen in the wind tunnel. Due to their wide rims, their performance is weaker at shallow yaw angles, but that means they’re particularly effective at steeper angles.

Our conclusion on the HUNT SUB50

The HUNT SUB50 is a well thought-out wheelset down to the finest detail. In addition to carbon spokes, specially developed in-house hubs, and progressive rim geometry, they deliver impressively stiff and efficient handling that underlines their performance oriented character. However, due to their lack of compliance, they’re aimed more at the hard-core racing scene. For just under € 3000, however, you get a top-end wheelset that’s perfect for your local crit.

Tops

stiff, with fun handling
high-quality specs at a good price
beautifully finished details

Flops

slightly lacking in compliance

For more information, visit huntbikewheels.com

The test field