Drive G42

In response to the growing demand for Gravel riding and the market trend toward wider tires and rims, Elitewheels introduces the Drive G42 — a new upgraded wheelset built upon its existing 25mm internal width Gravel platform. Designed specifically for Gravel terrain, the Drive G42 is centered around a 28mm super-wide internal width, a one-piece titanium driver body, and precise tension control. It achieves an optimal balance between weight, stability, and compatibility, offering a truly trustworthy companion for Gravel riders who seek reliability and the joy of exploration.

– Intended Use: Gravel
– Steel Spoke Wheelset
– Disc Brake Wheelset
– Brake Interface: Center Lock by default
– Axle: Thru axle by default

*Availability Status:Usually shipped in 7-10 days.

Note: Due to differences in hub axle and bearing dimensions between the Shimano MSR freehub system and the Shimano HG/SRAM XDR freehub system, the Shimano MSR freehub body cannot be installed on a Shimano HG or SRAM XDR hub, and vice versa.

US$1,189.00

(4 customer reviews)

Which freehub should I choose?

Drive G42-SLV Wheelset
This item: Drive G42
US$1,189.00
US$1,189.00
Sapim-Brass-Nipple-Upgrade
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US$10.00
Rim
SeriesDrive
Wheel Size700c
Tire CompatibilityClincher/ Tubeless
Bead TypeHooked
Rim Depth42mm
Inner Width28mm
Outer Width36mm
Other
Rim FinishUD Semi – matte
ExtrasRim Tape(Installed), Tubeless Valves(Installed)
Weight (Pair)1380±30g(without tubeless valves and rim tape)
Rider Weight Limit270lbs/120kg
Compatible Tire Sizes700 x 40-60C
Recommended Tire Sizes700 x 40C
CertificationUCI Approved
Hub
Front Hub Spacing12x100mm
Rear Hub Spacing12x142mm
BearingTPI Steel
Brake CompatibilityDisc (Center Lock)
Freehub Type60T Ratchet
Freehub CompatibilityShimano HG / SRAM XDR / Shimano MS
Spoke
Front Spoke Pattern3X/Radial (2:1)
Rear Spoke Pattern1X/3X(1:2)
Spoke Count21F/24R
Spoke TypeAlpina Ultralite Aero/Sapim CX-Ray
(Spokes will be arranged based on real-time supply chain availability.)
Nipple TypeSapim Secure Lock
28mm Internal Width

28mm Internal Width

Wide Tire Compatibility with Enhanced Safety

The Drive G42 features a 28mm internal width design, perfectly compatible with a wide range of Gravel tires from 40-60C. The larger internal width provides a better tire support profile, significantly reducing the “lightbulb effect” after inflation and delivering stronger sidewall support during cornering and on rough terrain. Additionally, the rim features a hooked bead design, effectively preventing tire blow-off during aggressive riding or low-pressure use, thereby enhancing overall safety—making every gravel descent more composed and confident.

28mm Internal Width
One-Piece Titanium Freehub Body (60T 6°)

One-Piece Titanium Freehub Body (60T / 6°)

A Engineering Breakthrough in Lightness and Reliability

The Drive G42 introduces a premium titanium Freehub body. Leveraging the material’s natural corrosion and impact resistance, it significantly extends the wheelset’s service life in harsh conditions. Elitewheels has overcome the thermal management challenges of titanium processing to machine the drive teeth and driver body as a single, integrated structure. This design not only further reduces the weight of the ratchet system but also fundamentally eliminates the risk of loosening, delivering direct and decisive power transfer. This rare manufacturing standard brings immediate and responsive power delivery to Gravel riding.

Discover the Hub Sound Here

Tension Difference ≤7kgf + Steel Spoke Optimization

Tension Difference ≤7kgf + Steel Spoke Optimization

Wider Internal Width, Greater Stability

The Drive G42 features Alpina Ultralite Aero steel spokes, with the tension difference between both sides of the hub precisely controlled within ≤7kgf. This is far superior to the ≥15kgf commonly seen in most 2:1 spoke pattern products on the market. Spoke tension is more evenly distributed, resulting in less deformation and greater stability under dynamic loads—ensuring long-term reliability. At the same time, as a steel-spoke wheelset, the Drive G42 achieves a larger internal width and wider tire compatibility while maintaining a satisfyingly lightweight design. The improved tire inflation profile delivers enhanced comfort and lateral support, so long-distance Gravel riding no longer means compromise.

Note: Due to real-time supply chain availability, the wheels may instead be built with Sapim CX-Ray spokes.

Tension Difference ≤7kgf + Steel Spoke Optimization
Drive G42-SLV PW

Testing & Validation

Beyond the Lab, On the Road

Each Drive G42 wheelset undergoes over 20 laboratory tests at our factory, covering durability, longevity, and stiffness. Furthermore, every wheelset passes the UCI Vertical Impact Test—certifying it for top-tier professional racing.

Does the Drive G42 Gravel wheelset come with spare spokes?+

No, only wheelsets with carbon spokes come with spare spokes. The Drive G42 Gravel wheelset uses Alpina Ultralite Aero steel spokes. If you need extra spokes, please purchase them via this link.

When should I choose the Shimano MSR freehub option?+

The MSR freehub option on the Drive G42 is compatible with Shimano Micro Spline MTB/Gravel cassettes. For example, if you are using the new Shimano RX820 1×12 groupset with the CS-M8100-12 cassette, please choose the Shimano MSR freehub option.

Which frames can I use with the Drive G42 wheelset?+

The Drive G42 is a gravel wheelset which are typically used with wider, gravel specific tires. Different frames have different tire clearances. You can check with the frame brand as to what size tires can be used on their particular frame. The G42 can also be fitted with road tires, but we recommend the tire width to be at least 32c. Since our gravel wheels only come in disc brake versions, only disc brake road bikes can be fitted with them. The tire clearance on a road frame is also important when what size tire to use.

Which brands' freehubs are compatible with DRIVE wheelsets?+

Since the hubs used in DRIVE wheels are manufactured in Elitewheels’ factory, freehubs from other brands are incompatible. The hubs used in DRIVE wheels have passed our 20,000km test. As long as you ride in normal conditions, the possibility of the freehub getting damaged is very low. If you ride in extreme conditions, we recommend you clean the freehub every 3000km.

Can I use the Drive G42 wheels on my QR (quick release) compatible frame?+

No. The Drive G42 wheels are only compatible with standard thru-axle frames with hub spacing of Front 12×100 mm and Rear 12×142 mm.

Why don't our disc brake wheelsets come with thru-axles?+

Unlike quick releases, there are many thru-axle standards. What you need depends on your frame's make and model. There are many thread types, such as M12x1.0mm, M12x1.5mm, M12x1.75mm, etc... For example, M12 means the outer thread diameter is 12mm, and 1.0mm means the thread pitch is 1.0mm. Because of the variety of standards, we do not provide thru-axles. If you need a new thru-axle(s), please contact your frame brand for more information.

Can the Drive G42 wheels be built with brass nipples?+

Yes. We offer a Sapim brass nipple upgrade option for the Drive G42 wheels. Please kindly note that upgrading to brass nipples will increase the total wheelset weight by approximately 50 g. If this is acceptable, please add this upgrade option to your cart together with your selected Drive G42 wheelset.

Is there an internal nipple option?+

No. Currently, the Drive G42 does not have an internal nipple option.

Can I change to 6-bolt?+

Yes. Drive G42 wheels use center lock hubs by default, but if you want to use 6-bolt, please click the link and add the Centerlock to 6-bolt adapters to your cart with the wheelset.

What does the rider weight limit include?+

The rider weight limit includes the total weight of the rider, bike, gear, and any other accessories. Please do not exceed this weight.

What tire pressures should I run?+

The best tire pressure for you depends on many factors: the rim width, type of bike and tires, rider weight, road conditions and weather conditions. Please see our user guide for more information.

How strong are your carbon rims? What happens if I break one?+

Every one of our carbon rims has been strictly tested before shipment. We are so confident in the quality of our rims that we offer a 3-year warranty on every one. We also offer a crash replacement policy. To learn more, please refer to our warranty page.

Where can I find information on ordering and shipping?+

Please visit our FAQ page here.

Essential Safety Information+

For essential safety information, please read our Consumer Advice.

4 reviews for Drive G42

  1. amg28 (verified owner) –

    Neben den Helix C68D CS für das Rennrad, sind die G42 der zweite Laufradsatz, den ich bei Elitewheels gekauft habe.
    Die Verpackung und Lieferung war wie bei der ersten Bestellung tadellos.
    Die G42 sind für mich der perfekte Kompromiss aus Gewicht, Aerodynamik und Stabilität. Ich fahre die 28mm Maulweite mit 40mm Reifen. Das Fahrverhalten und Lenkung sind agil, egal ob Straße, Schotter oder gröberes Gelände.
    Um die Dauerhaltbarkeit mache ich mir keine Sorgen, die Verarbeitung macht einen hochwertigen Eindruck.

    (1) (0)
    • sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –

      Hallo,

      vielen Dank, dass Sie sich erneut für Elitewheels entschieden haben! Wir wissen es sehr zu schätzen, dass Sie nach Ihrem Helix C68D CS-Laufradsatz wieder bei uns gekauft haben.

      Es freut uns sehr zu hören, dass die G42 für Sie die perfekte Balance aus Gewicht, Aerodynamik und Stabilität bieten. Toll zu wissen, dass sie sich auf Asphalt, Schotter und in unwegsamem Gelände – in Kombination mit Ihren 40-mm-Reifen – hervorragend fahren lassen.

      Ihre lobenden Worte zur Verarbeitungsqualität bedeuten unserem Produktionsteam sehr viel. Wir wünschen Ihnen viele wunderbare Ausfahrten.

  2. artem (verified owner) –

    the set is sick!
    feels superb, whether one hour spin or ten pushing through the Alps.
    doesn’t matter flying over flat gravel or tackling rough steep trails at speed — the wheels enhance tires just as i expect them. responsiveness is sharp and immediate, turns stable.
    hope the longevity and durability are just as good, will see.
    recommended.

    Image #1 from artem
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    (0) (0)
    • sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –

      Hi Artem,

      Thanks for your awesome feedback!

      It’s fantastic to hear the wheels perform brilliantly on long rides in the Alps, both on flat gravel and steep rough trails. We hope they keep delivering that great responsive feel for many kilometres ahead.

  3. Pablo Corvalan (verified owner) –

    This is my second pair of Elitewheels, and once again I’m very impressed. The jump from the G35s to these G42s is huge: they feel much stiffer, lighter, and more agile, and the bike responds much better. They’re definitely worth it. As a reference, my 47 mm Teravail Rutlands measure 50 mm on these rims.

    Image #1 from Pablo Corvalan
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    Image #3 from Pablo Corvalan
    (1) (0)
    • sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –

      Hi Pablo,

      Thanks a lot for sharing your experience with your second set of our wheels.

      It’s fantastic to hear the upgrade from G35s to G42s brings noticeable improvements in stiffness, weight and agility, and that your bike reacts so much better. We also appreciate you adding the real‑world tire measurement for the 47 mm Teravail Rutlands, this is really helpful for other riders.

      Hope you get plenty of great rides with the new G42s.

  4. Marcus –

    The Drive 42 Wheelset is the perfect upgrade for my Trek Checkpoint SL5 Gen 3 gravel bike. My Checkpoint accelerates more quickly, has a more immediate pedal response, and is easier to maintain momentum and hold speed in faster gears. There isn’t a significant increase in speed, but I love the fact that my bike feels better and quicker, which allows me to travel farther more easily. Although I ride primarily on paved surfaces, the Drive 42 wheelset also performs well by maintaining stability and speed on compact gravel trails. The titanium free hub engages well to help maintain speed, and it is louder than previous bikes I have owned, with a unique sound. The sound is useful on crowded public trails. The price and quality make this wheelset a no-brainer if you want to save money on gravel wheels. I had my wheels installed at my local bike shop. I have seen more expensive wheels, and I could not tell the difference in quality. I strongly recommend.

    Image #1 from Marcus
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    (1) (0)
    • sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –

      Hi Marcus,

      Thank you for your detailed review of the Drive 42 wheelset!

      We’re delighted it serves as such a fantastic upgrade for your Trek Checkpoint SL5 Gen 3. It’s awesome to hear you feel improved acceleration and snappier pedal response both on paved roads and compact gravel trails.

      We’re glad you like the engaging titanium freehub with its distinctive sound. It means a lot that you think our wheels deliver comparable quality to far pricier alternatives.

      Enjoy all your gravel rides!

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