Wheels are one of the most important components of a bicycle, affecting comfort, aerodynamics, stiffness and overall performance. Although the Partington brand has been on the market for a relatively short time, it has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to design and manufacturing. In this article, I look at what sets Partington apart, discuss the key technical features of their wheels, and share my impressions from testing in Tenerife. Find out why Partington is poised to revolutionize the industry.
The brand’s founder is Jon Partington – an engineer with experience in the aviation industry, which translates into an extremely precise and innovative approach to the design process. Ben’s vision is based on three pillars: precision, reliability and continuous development. With advanced technologies and modern materials, Partington is focused on creating wheels that not only meet the expectations of the most demanding riders, but can exceed them.
The company’s philosophy is that high-end bicycle components must combine low weight, strength and aerodynamics. This allows for a perfect balance between performance and comfort, whether you’re racing a demanding mountain race or spinning miles on flat trails.
Partington’s offerings include two distinctive models:
Price: 32,999 PLN / 7,500 € – yes, that’s no small amount of madness, but in return you get the pinnacle of engineering precision and innovation.
Both models use the highest quality materials and precise manufacturing processes – all to ensure the optimal balance between low weight and durability.
Partington wheels feature exceptionally high lateral stiffness (about 55 N/mm), which translates into efficient power transfer and precise handling in corners. According to Jon Partington, the key to success is the perfect combination of aerodynamics, stiffness and ride comfort – making the ride not only fast, but also enjoyable.
In traditional road wheels, the spokes are mounted to the hub by putting them through holes in the so-called “flange” (i.e. the side of the hub) and braiding them in the appropriate pattern (e.g. cross x2, x3 or radial). The spokes are then connected to the rim using nipples, allowing the tension of each spoke to be adjusted. This method is quite universal and used by most manufacturers.
However, Partington makes quite a few innovations here.
Although the eventual servicing (such as replacing a broken spoke) can be more complicated in such a configuration than in traditional wheels, the benefits of better aerodynamics, low weight and high stiffness often prevail. That’s why Partington and similar manufacturers rely on advanced assembly technologies to offer wheels that are optimized for performance and comfort right from the design stage.
– Unique hub design: Partington hubs are designed to minimize friction and increase power transmission efficiency. Interestingly, the deliberately introduced play on the bearings eliminates extra stress and ensures longer component life.
– Compatibility with wide tires: Partington wheels are perfectly compatible with tires that are 25-30 mm wide, improving comfort on uneven surfaces.
– Aerodynamics: A special rim profile reduces drag, even in side winds.
In conventional road wheels, standard bearing arrangements are sometimes subjected to damaging loads from operating conditions or mounting methods, which can lead to additional rolling resistance. Partington proposes what it calls a “floating” bearing design, providing enough degrees of freedom to minimize and properly direct loads within the bearing. As a result, the wheels maintain smooth operation and their performance and durability remain at the highest level.
Partington offers a program for replacing wheels in case of damage caused during driving. This is an important guarantee for users who are concerned about the risks associated with heavy use.
Day 1: Warm-up in mountainous terrain
I started my first day in Tenerife with a 70 km leisurely ride with an obligatory stop for coffee and cake. The route led through a 12 km driveway from the beach to San Miguel. The road was full of bumps, but the width of the tires (29 mm on Partington rims) effectively dampened any vibrations, which significantly improved the comfort of the ride.
When descending in the rain and strong wind, the wheels behaved remarkably stable. With an average taper of 39/44, I didn’t feel any “pushing” off the trail, which is a common problem in side gusts. The ride was predictable and comfortable – I didn’t have to fight the bike, and I could focus on the descent.
Day 2: El Teide Volcano
The climb up El Teide is a real test for the wheels. The lightness of the set (1176 g) allowed me to smoothly go the next kilometers uphill. Despite the wind on the plateau, the wheels did not lose their stability. The descent towards Vilaflor was a real pleasure – the precision and certainty of the handling allowed me to ride fast in the corners.
Day 3: Hub clearance – does it work?
That day, I decided to focus on the performance of the hub clearance. Despite initial concerns about friction and stability, in practice everything worked perfectly. The slack did not negatively affect the ride, and at the same time I felt the bike rolling more smoothly.
Partington wheels are a true innovation in the world of cycling. Their lightness, aerodynamics and precision craftsmanship make them an ideal choice for discerning riders who are looking for reliable equipment. Yes, the price is high, but in return you get a product that takes your riding to the next level.
If you’re looking for modern technology and are willing to invest in quality, Partington should be on your short list. With a variety of models (from the R35 to the Aero), there’s something for everyone, regardless of their preferred driving style.
I encourage you to visit Cycling Boutique, where you can test Partington wheels and see for yourself their uniqueness. Your bike deserves the best!
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