In just a few years, Elite Wheels has become a serious player in the fiercely competitive carbon wheel market. Based in China, the brand has made its mark with aggressively priced products while delivering a level of finish that rivals some European benchmarks.
On Gravelpassion, weโve already tested the Drive G45, a performance-oriented, stiff model built for racing. With the Drive G36, Elite Wheels offers a more versatile take designed to cover a wider span of gravel and road use.
Strengths:
- Value for money
- Rim finish
- Versatility
Could be better
- Nothing to report
A spec sheet that inspires confidence
The G36 stands out with a 36 mm-deep carbon rim and 25 mm internal width, allowing tyres from 28 to 65 mm. This spec strikes an excellent balance between aerodynamics, comfort, and versatility.
The build uses Sapim CX-Ray steel spokes, renowned for their strength and elasticity, delivering a more compliant feel than the G45โs carbon spokes. The Kinetic ratchet hub is new, with quick engagement (50 teeth / 7.2ยฐ) and Steel TPI bearings designed for durability.
It can be disassembled tool-free with ease, ideal for DIY maintenance.
The wheelset is compatible with both tubeless and tubes, with rim tape and valves already installed.
As for weight, Elite Wheels claims 1325 g for the pair, a particularly competitive figure given the retail price (around โฌ1,100) and the rim width. Braking is, of course, disc, with a Center Lock interface.
Hands-on and test conditions
I rode the G36 wheelset over several months, tubeless, with tyre widths ranging from 40 to 45 mm. The programme was varied: long gravel rides, more demanding sections flirting with what the Marvel range could handle, and forays onto the road.
From the first pedal strokes, the difference with the G45 is obvious: the behaviour is less demanding, more forgiving on rough terrain. The steel spokes filter vibrations better, which translates to greater comfort on long distances and reduced muscle fatigue.
On the trail: versatility and composure
In gravel use, the 36 mm rim hits a sweet spot: enough lateral stiffness for decisive accelerations, without the harshness of full-on performance models. On descents, stability is excellent and the 25 mm internal width provides very good tyre support, even for larger sections.
The ratchet hub makes itself heard: the sound is clear and fairly loud, but personally I think it enhances the high-end feel. Engagement is crisp – ideal for punchy relaunches.
On the road, even with 40 mm tyres, the G36 hold their pace. Their low weight and moderate profile maintain good efficiency, especially on rolling terrain. For mixed gravel/road use, theyโre a coherent choice, especially since they accept 28 mm tyres at minimum.
Finish and value for money
As with the G45, the finish quality is impeccable: neatly applied rim tape, tidy tubeless valves, sharp and uniform markings, flawless carbon.
At a little over โฌ1,100, with shipping and import duties included, the spec-to-price ratio is hard to beat.
Verdict?
The Elite Wheels Drive G36 are a success. Less radical and more comfortable than the G45, they will suit a wide audience – from long-distance gravel riders to cyclists looking for a single pair to do it all. Their balanced behaviour, careful finish, and attractive pricing make them one of the strongest options right now for anyone wanting versatile carbon wheels without topping โฌ1,200.
You can also find some models directly on Aliexpress.
