DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC: A Detailed Review

The world of cycling components is a vast and often complex one, with brands constantly striving to innovate and offer riders the latest and greatest in performance and durability. Among the established names in the industry, DT Swiss has carved out a reputation for producing high-quality hubs, spokes, and complete wheelsets. One such offering that has garnered attention is the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheelset. This review delves into what makes these wheels stand out, examining their unique features, performance characteristics, and whether they live up to the hype.

Introducing the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC

The DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC represents a significant step forward in rim technology, particularly for rim-braked bicycles. The standout feature is undoubtedly the proprietary OXIC coating applied to the brake track. DT Swiss claims this is a high-heat, high-pressure electrostatic application process that results in a ceramic coating offering superior stopping power across a range of weather conditions. Unlike some other surface treatments, DT Swiss asserts that this OXIC coating is exceptionally durable and resistant to flaking, promising longevity for the wheelset.

Braking Performance: A Game Changer?

One of the most critical aspects of any rim-braked wheelset is its braking performance. The PR 1400 DiCut OXIC aims to excel in this area. During testing on challenging wintery roads, often subjected to salt and moisture, the wheelset demonstrated remarkable stopping power. Crucially, after an initial bedding-in period of approximately 200km, the braking became brilliant. A particularly pleasing aspect noted by testers was the absence of the high-pitched, often irritating, squeal commonly associated with some advanced brake tracks. This quiet and confident braking is a significant advantage for riders who value a refined and predictable stopping experience.

Aesthetics and Build Quality

Beyond performance, the visual appeal of a wheelset can also be a deciding factor for many cyclists. The DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheels boast a sleek, all-black aesthetic. The rims, spokes, and hubs are finished in a uniform charcoal black, creating a stealthy and sophisticated look. This is particularly enhanced when paired with classic tan-sidewalled tyres, offering a striking contrast that can elevate the overall appearance of a bicycle. For those seeking a durable set of hoops that mimic the visual appeal of carbon wheels but retain the benefits of an alloy construction, these DT Swiss wheels present a compelling option.

The Heart of the Wheel: DT Swiss 240 Hubs

The performance and reliability of any wheelset are heavily influenced by its hubs, and the PR 1400 DiCut OXIC are no exception. These wheels are built around DT Swiss's highly regarded DiCut 240 hubs. These are the same industry-leading hubs found on other premium DT Swiss offerings, such as the RR21 DiCut wheels. The 240 hubs are renowned for their exceptional durability, reliability, and remarkably simple maintenance. A testament to their user-friendly design is the ability to service them without the need for specialised tools, making routine upkeep straightforward for the average cyclist.

Component Synergy: The DT Swiss Advantage

A notable aspect of the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheelset is the brand's commitment to using components manufactured entirely in-house. The rims, hubs, bearings, spokes, and nipples are all products of DT Swiss. This integrated approach, while not as common as one might assume among wheel manufacturers, allows DT Swiss to optimise the design and build of the wheelset. By ensuring that each component is designed to complement the others, DT Swiss can achieve a higher level of performance and a more cohesive overall build. This attention to detail in component synergy contributes to the wheelset's overall ride quality and durability.

Ride Feel and Stiffness

The combination of the wide-flange 240 hubs and the excellent DT Aero Comp spokes results in a wheelset that offers a noticeably stiff ride from the very first rotation. This stiffness translates to efficient power transfer and a precise feel when cornering or climbing. However, this stiffness does not come at the expense of comfort. The wheels remain impressively compliant, avoiding the harsh or rickety sensation that can sometimes accompany overly stiff wheelsets. They strike a fine balance between responsiveness and ride comfort, making them suitable for a wide range of riding conditions and durations.

Tubeless Ready: Modern Versatility

In line with current trends in road cycling, the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheels are tubeless-ready straight out of the box. Tubeless technology offers several advantages, including the ability to run lower tyre pressures for improved comfort and grip, and a reduced risk of pinch flats. For riders yet to embrace tubeless setups, the benefits are significant, and a quick glance at the provided video on tubeless tyre damage can offer further insight. Fitting tyres to these rims proved to be a straightforward affair with Schwalbe One tyres, seating easily with a standard track pump. While Specialized tyres required a bit more effort, this was attributed more to the tyre manufacturer's design than any inherent issue with the DT Swiss rims, based on previous testing with different wheelsets.

A Minor Quibble: Rim Width

While the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheelset excels in many areas, there is one aspect that riders seeking the latest in tyre trends might wish for: greater internal rim width. The current internal rim measurement is 18mm. In an era where wider rims are increasingly favoured for their ability to support wider tyres and improve aerodynamics and ride quality, these rims are on the narrower side. When fitted with 25mm tyres, a slight "mushrooming" effect was observed, where the tyre bulged outwards slightly. Competitors, such as Hed with their Ardennes Black rims, offer wider internal widths, which could provide a more optimal profile for modern, wider tyres.

Key Features at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheels good for all-weather riding?

Yes, the OXIC coating on the brake track is specifically designed to provide excellent and consistent braking performance in both wet and dry conditions. Testers found them to perform brilliantly even on salty, wet winter roads.

What is the main advantage of the OXIC coating?

The primary advantage of the OXIC coating is its enhanced braking power and durability. It's applied using a high-heat, high-pressure process that DT Swiss claims prevents flaking and ensures long-term performance.

Are these wheels noisy when braking?

No, a notable positive feedback from testers was the lack of high-pitched squealing, which can be a common issue with some advanced brake track technologies.

What kind of maintenance do the DT Swiss 240 hubs require?

The DT Swiss 240 hubs are known for their ease of maintenance and can typically be serviced without specialised tools, making them very user-friendly.

What rim heights are available for the PR 1400 DiCut OXIC?

Information regarding specific rim heights for the PR 1400 DiCut OXIC is best found by consulting DT Swiss's official product listings or their dealer network. Their website often features a 'Wheel Finder' tool to help you explore their full range and technical specifications.

Conclusion

The DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC wheelset is a high-performance option that successfully blends innovative technology with proven reliability. The OXIC coating offers a significant upgrade in braking prowess, particularly in adverse conditions, and the absence of braking noise is a welcome bonus. The excellent DT Swiss 240 hubs provide a solid foundation of durability and ease of maintenance, while the overall build quality and stealthy aesthetics make them an attractive choice for many cyclists. The stiffness and responsiveness are balanced with a comfortable ride feel, and the tubeless-ready feature adds modern versatility. While the internal rim width might be a consideration for those strictly adhering to the widest tyre trends, for many riders, the DT Swiss PR 1400 DiCut OXIC represents a superb, durable, and stylish wheelset that delivers on its promises.