With the new Streem VONOA carbon wheels, German component brand NEWMEN has injected some fresh energy into their line-up. We tested the climbing version, which comes equipped with VONOA carbon spokes, and tips the scales at just 1,095 g – the lightest wheelset in the manufacturer’s range. With rim depths of 35 mm up front and 38 mm at the rear, the focus is clearly on climbing efficiency, lightning-fast response and ultra-lightweight construction. The slight difference in rim depth isn’t a coincidence either. It’s a carefully chosen sweet spot aimed at increasing crosswind stability, optimising weight and improving aerodynamics. Whether those additional 3 mm at the rear actually make a noticeable difference on the road, however, remains to be seen..
If you’re more about putting down the power on the flat, NEWMEN also offer versions with deeper rims. The 49/54 mm deep all-round model weighs in at 1,305 g, while the 60/66 mm sprint version is made for maximum aero performance. Across the range, rims, hubs and spokes all come from a single source. The VONOA models use flat carbon spokes which, unlike traditional steel spokes, have significantly higher tensile strength. This allows NEWMEN to reduce the spoke count to just 15 up front and 18 at the rear. According to the manufacturer, this saves up to 40% in weight without compromising stiffness. Visually, the wheels have an understated appearance thanks to the matte carbon finish, while the flat spokes add a clean, modern touch.
NEWMEN Streem Climbing VONOA
€ 1,690
- Weight: 1,095 g (incl. tubeless rim tape & freehub body)
- Rim depth: 35 mm front / 38 mm rear
- Internal width: 22 mm
- Spoke count: 15 front / 18 rear (VONOA carbon spokes)
- Target rider types: Mountain goats, weight weenies, aero minimalists
- Compatible with: Tubeless & tubes (includes Tubolito TPU tubes with Schrader valve and tubeless valves with valve tool)
One of the most striking features of this wheelset is the price, which sits well below what you’d normally expect in this weight class. Comparable models, like the CADEX 50 Ultra from our 2024 carbon wheel group test, are significantly more expensive.
On top of that, NEWMEN added an aero feature to the rims. The Streem Aero Valve is fully recessed into the rim and neatly covered by a small cap, which effectively hides it. Air is pumped in using a valve extension, known as the Valve Tool, which attaches to the integrated Schrader valve. According to NEWMEN, not only does this ensure a cleaner look but also reduces air turbulence around the valve and can save up to 1.5 watts at 45 km/h. To round off the package, NEWMEN deliver the wheels with ultra-light Tubolito tubes with Schrader valves as standard. If you prefer running tubeless or sticking with traditional Presta valves, the supplied adapter makes it quick and easy to swap between systems.
But beyond aerodynamics, weight has the biggest impact on performance. That’s exactly why carbon wheels are one of the most popular performance upgrades for road bikes. As rotating mass, they influence handling massively. Less weight means less inertia, which, in turn, translates into sharper response. When accelerating, you’re not just pushing weight forward, you’re spinning it up too. As a result, the lighter the wheelset, the more responsive the bike is and the more agile and explosive it becomes, especially when sprinting and cornering.
On test: How good are the NEWMEN Streem Climbing VONOA carbon wheels?
On paper, the numbers are impressive – ultralight weight, aero tricks, and carbon spokes– but what really matters is how all of this translates to the road. To find out, we put the wheels through their paces both during a training camp on Spain’s Mediterranean coast and back home in the Black Forest, tackling steep climbs, fast descents and gusty coastal roads. Our test bike was the new BMC Teammachine SLR, fitted with 28 mm Continental Grand Prix 5000 S TR tires, running at 4.8 bar on NEWMEN’s 30 mm rims.
From the very first pedal stroke, it’s clear: these wheels aren’t built for comfort– they’re designed for performance. The carbon spokes ensure razor-sharp stiffness, providing precise feedback when sprinting, cornering and climbing out of the saddle. Visually, they’re just as convincing, with a clean and modern look. Handling is razor-sharp and will appeal to anyone who values instant steering response with zero delay.
On flat terrain, the Streem Climbing VONOA hold their speed surprisingly well despite the modest rim depth. While they’re not in the same league as deep-section wheels when it comes to aero gains, the low system weight makes it easy to keep momentum. And when it’s time to head downhill, these wheels continue to impress. The perks of a lightweight system aren’t limited to climbing performance. With less rotating mass, the wheels react instantly and confidently to tight corners and quick direction changes. Another plus: with a rim depth under 40 mm, they’re far less affected by crosswinds.
And then there’s that moment when you stop pedalling and wait for the familiar buzz of the freehub. But instead? Silence. NEWMEN deliberately chose an ultra-quiet freehub. Some might miss the trademark sound, but for others, it brings a welcome touch of tranquillity to the experience.
Do you need the NEWMEN Streem Climbing VONOA carbon wheels?
Wheels are still the number one upgrade for any road bike. If you’re someone who regularly attacks on climbs, prefers a minimalist setup and chases maximum performance at the lowest possible weight, the NEWMEN Streem Climbing VONOA make a strong case for themselves. With flat carbon spokes and a clean, streamlined design, they look right at home even on modern aero bikes– and the clever Aero Valve system ensures a tidy, aerodynamic finish.
Additionally, it’s fully compatible straight out of the box. You get ultralight Tubolito tubes, tubeless valves, and even a Presta adapter, which gives you complete flexibility to run the setup that suits you best.
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Would we buy the NEWMEN Streem Climbing VONOA carbon wheels?
With their low system weight, modern internal rim width and a very alluring price well under € 2,000, the Streem Climbing VONOA offer unbeatable value for money. NEWMEN delivered a well-rounded package that’s far more than just a lightweight gimmick. Out on the road, the wheelset impresses with snappy acceleration and agile handling that make it a true performance asset. The near-silent freehub and integrated valve system may divide opinion, but ultimately, it’s clear: in this weight and price bracket, performance upgrades of this calibre are few and far between.
Tops
- Strong acceleration and agile handling
- Sensationally low weight
- Clean, minimalist valve integration
- Ultra-quiet freehub
Flops
- Tires can only be inflated using the Valve Tool
- Standard road tubes with Presta valves don’t offer the same aero benefits
- Ultra-quiet freehub 😉
Find out more on newmen-components.de
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Words & Photos: Jan Fock
