UCI Impact Test for Carbon Wheels

To ensure structural integrity and rider safety, ProX carbon wheels are evaluated according to the UCI wheel impact test protocol. This test procedure is commonly used to assess the impact resistance of mountain bike rims, verifying that the rim structure can withstand sudden impact loads encountered during real-world riding. The test simulates high-energy impacts that may occur when the wheel strikes rocks, edges, or other trail obstacles. A controlled vertical drop mechanism delivers a specified amount of impact energy to the rim under standardized conditions. During the evaluation, multiple impacts are applied at different locations along the rim circumference to confirm consistent structural performance across the entire rim profile. Depending on the wheel category, the drop height required to achieve the target impact energy may vary.

Purpose of Wheel UCI Impact Test

The UCI impact test verifies that the rim maintains its structural integrity under high-energy impacts, helping ensure that the wheel meets the safety and durability requirements expected for high-performance cycling equipment. By validating impact resistance through standardized testing, ProX carbon wheels are engineered to provide reliable performance, durability, and rider confidence across demanding riding environments.

Wheel UCI Impact Test Methodology

The impact test follows a vertical drop configuration, where a calibrated mass is released from a controlled height to strike the rim. To ensure accuracy and repeatability, the rebound of the anvil is neutralized during the test process. Testing is conducted without a tire installed, allowing direct measurement of the rim’s structural strength without additional damping from the tire.

Impact Energy Requirement

• Target impact energy: 40 Joules
• Permitted tolerance: ±5%

Impact Mass

• Total mass used in the drop system: 6–10 kg

Impact Interface

• A flat steel anvil is used as the impact contact surface
• The striking face must be covered with a 20 mm thick silicone rubber pad
• The rubber pad must remain intact and free from visible damage before each test

Impact Positions

• A total of four impacts are performed at different locations around the rim
• One impact must occur at a point located 90° relative to the valve hole
• Each strike should be positioned between two spokes to represent realistic loading conditions

Road Wheel Impact Test 

Test Results

Some of ProX Carbon Wheels have officially received UCI approval. This certification confirms that the wheelset complies with the technical regulations required by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). With this approval, our wheelsets are eligible for use in UCI-sanctioned road cycling competitions, offering riders a race-ready carbon wheel solution that meets international governing standards.

• C52DB-URD28-450
• C67DB-URD28-305SL

Test Results