Wheel(s) DUKE LUCKY JACK SLS5 32"/ Sapim RC-1 Spokes

Lucky Jack SLS5 32-inch RC-1 Edition applies DUKE’s approach to the large-wheel format: exploiting the rollover and stability of 32 inches without accepting a heavy, slow or imprecise wheel.

The configuration logic is specific to the 32-inch diameter. At the front, two options are available around a 31 mm internal width: 360 g for the lightest XC configuration, or 400 g for more margin in aggressive use.

At the rear, riders can choose a 31 mm internal rim at 400 g or a 29 mm internal rim at 410 g. Our 6TERS recommendation remains the 31 mm front / 29 mm rear setup, which is the most coherent way to distribute grip, control, efficiency and robustness between both wheels.

Since 2011, Lucky Jack has embodied our vision of the ultimate XC wheel: a blend of lightness, precision and performance, proven both on World Cup courses and on the most demanding rides.

The SLS5 generation pushes this approach further. At equivalent configuration, the rim is 10% lighter than the SLS4 generation and gains 15% more vertical compliance. The result is a more dynamic, more forgiving wheel that remains highly precise.

The SLS5 process combines an optimised carbon fibre layup with aerospace-grade resin. It improves resistance to lateral loads and vertical impacts while increasing vibration filtering.

SpokeCore forms the spoke passages directly by moulding, without drilling into the carbon. The structure remains more homogeneous, more reliable and better suited to light builds with high spoke tension.

ImpactGuard adds energy-absorbing inserts integrated into the rim. These inserts dissipate low- and high-intensity impacts without adding unnecessary weight.

DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) controls vertical deformation and rebound: more grip under load, more comfort on rough terrain, less fatigue and a calmer bike when the course becomes chaotic.

AntiPinch bead lips help reduce the risk of tyre cuts on impacts, while the Hookless / Tubeless Ready design optimises tyre volume and allows lower pressures for more grip and control.

This RC-1 Edition combines Lucky Jack SLS5 rims with Sapim RC-1 textile spokes and DUKE MadMax3 Boost R55 hubs. The goal is not just to lower weight: it is to create a wheelset that filters vibrations better and remains precise under load.

The Sapim RC-1 uses a PBO (Zylon) textile structure. This material dissipates part of the micro-vibrations transmitted to the bike, while maintaining high lateral stiffness thanks to its 2.2 mm section and high build tension.

Its controlled elongation - around 0.52 mm at 1200 N - keeps it more direct than the softest textile spoke solutions. The wheel remains lively and stable, but less harsh and less physically demanding on long rides or irregular terrain.

DUKE MadMax3 Boost R55 hubs use a Round Head Ø 5.5 mm interface matched to the RC-1 spoke. They provide a robust and precise mechanical base for a very high-end XC build.

This 32-inch RC-1 Edition is aimed at riders who want the benefits of the larger diameter - more rollover, more stability and better speed carry - without giving up the lightness or precision of Lucky Jack SLS5.