Choosing the right 700c touring rim is critical for a reliable long-distance ride. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry standards for rim width and spoke count, and aggregated owner feedback to compare the most popular models. Our evaluation focuses on strength, braking performance, weight, and value for loaded touring, bikepacking, and daily commuting. Below are our top picks, each with honest limitations and recommendations for who should consider them.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
🚗
|
Velocity Dyad 700c Best Overall Touring Rim 700c, 36h, 23mm external width, 19mm internal, eyeletted, machined sidewalls |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Mavic A719 700c Best Value Touring Rim 700c, 32/36h, 22mm external width, 19mm internal, welded joint, SUP |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
HED Belgium+ 700c Best Wide Touring Rim 700c, 32h, 25mm external width, 21mm internal, welded joint, tubeless compatible |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
DT Swiss RR 511 700c Premium Touring Rim 700c, 32/36h, 24mm external width, 20mm internal, welded joint, tubeless ready |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Sun Ringle CR18 700c Budget Touring Rim 700c, 32/36h, 22mm external width, 18mm internal, single eyelet, machined sidewall |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Alex Adventurer 2 700c Solid All-Rounder 700c, 32/36h, 22mm external width, 19mm internal, single eyelet, machined sidewall |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Mach1 140 700c Entry Level Touring Rim 700c, 32/36h, 21mm external width, 17mm internal, non-eyelet, machined sidewall |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Velocity Dyad 700c: Best Overall Touring Rim
The Velocity Dyad is a classic touring rim that has earned its reputation through years of use on long-distance expeditions. With double-eyelet holes and a strong 23mm external width, it offers excellent spoke support and reduces the risk of rim cracking under heavy loads. Owner feedback consistently praises its ability to handle rough roads and heavy panniers without going out of true. In our evaluation, the Dyad stands out for its balance of strength and reliability, making it a top choice for self-supported touring.
However, the Dyad is not the lightest rim available, and weight-conscious bikepackers may prefer a lighter option. If you prioritize low rotating weight for hilly terrain or plan to carry minimal gear, consider a lighter rim like the HED Belgium. For traditional loaded touring with four panniers, the Dyad remains a benchmark.
- Double-eyelet construction reduces spoke fatigue and stress on the rim bed.
- Machined sidewalls provide reliable braking in wet and dry conditions.
- Widely available in multiple drillings (32h, 36h, 40h) for heavy loads.
Pros: Excellent durability for loaded touring with heavy panniers.; Consistent braking performance even in rain.
Cons: Heavier than some competitors, adding rotational mass.
2. Mavic A719 700c: Best Value Touring Rim
The Mavic A719 is a workhorse rim that delivers reliable performance at a reasonable price point. Its welded joint and SUP treatment create a smooth braking surface that wears evenly, and owner reports indicate it stays true under moderate touring loads. We compared its specifications to other rims in its class and found it offers a strong strength-to-weight ratio. For budget-conscious touring cyclists who need a durable rim without breaking the bank, the A719 is a solid choice.
That said, the 19mm internal width is narrower than many modern touring rims, limiting tire options to 32-38mm for optimal performance. If you prefer wider tires (40mm+) for comfort on rough roads, look at the Velocity Dyad or HED Belgium. The A719 is best for traditional touring with 28-35mm tires.
- Welded joint and SUP (Soudé Usiné Process) for a smooth, strong seam.
- Eyeletted spoke holes reduce stress and allow for higher spoke tension.
- Compatible with rim brakes and disc brakes (disc version available).
Pros: Excellent value for the durability and performance offered.; Smooth braking surface with consistent wear.
Cons: Narrower internal width (19mm) limits tire volume for comfort.
3. HED Belgium+ 700c: Best Wide Touring Rim
The HED Belgium+ is a modern touring rim designed for wider tires and tubeless setups. Its 21mm internal width allows tires from 32mm to 50mm to perform optimally, providing better traction and comfort on gravel and rough pavement. We researched owner feedback and found that many touring cyclists appreciate the reduced need for frequent flat repairs when running tubeless. The rim’s welded joint and machined sidewalls offer reliable braking, though some users noted the braking surface can wear faster than heavier rims.
However, the Belgium+ is significantly more expensive than the Mavic A719 or Velocity Dyad, making it a premium option. If you are on a tight budget or prefer narrower tires, you can save money with a more traditional rim. This rim is best for bikepackers and gravel tourers who want to run wide tires tubeless.
- Wide 21mm internal width improves tire profile and cornering grip.
- Tubeless-ready design reduces flats and allows lower tire pressures.
- Welded joint with smooth braking surface for rim brakes.
Pros: Excellent tire support and comfort with larger volume tires.; Tubeless compatibility reduces puncture risk on long tours.
Cons: Higher price point compared to basic touring rims.
4. DT Swiss RR 511 700c: Premium Touring Rim
The DT Swiss RR 511 is a premium rim that combines low weight with good strength for touring. Its 20mm internal width is suitable for tires up to 40mm, and the tubeless-ready design is a plus for puncture resistance. In our evaluation, the RR 511 stands out for its build quality and consistent performance. Owner feedback often highlights the rim’s ability to stay true under moderate loads, though some have reported that it is not as solid as heavier rims for extreme heavy touring.
The main drawback is the cost, which can be double that of entry-level touring rims. Additionally, the rim is not as wide as the HED Belgium+, so tire volume is slightly limited. If you are a weight-conscious touring cyclist who values a premium rim and has the budget, the RR 511 is a strong choice. For heavy loads or tight budgets, consider the Velocity Dyad or Mavic A719.
- High-quality aluminum with a welded joint for a smooth, strong rim.
- Tubeless-ready design with a bead lock for easy tire mounting.
- Lightweight at around 480g, reducing overall wheel weight.
Pros: Lightweight without sacrificing too much durability.; Smooth braking surface and tubeless compatibility.
Cons: Premium price that may not fit all budgets.
5. Sun Ringle CR18 700c: Budget Touring Rim
The Sun Ringle CR18 is a budget-friendly rim that has been a popular choice for touring cyclists on a tight budget. With a single eyelet and machined sidewalls, it offers adequate performance for light touring and commuting. We compared its specifications to more expensive rims and found that it provides good value for the price. Owner feedback indicates that it holds up well for weekend trips and credit-card touring, but some have reported that it can go out of true under heavy loads.
The CR18’s 18mm internal width is narrow by modern standards, limiting tire choices to 28-35mm for optimal performance. If you plan to carry heavy panniers or ride on rough roads, you may want to invest in a stronger rim like the Velocity Dyad. This rim is best for entry-level touring or as a spare wheel set.
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious touring builds.
- Single eyelet design reduces stress on the rim bed.
- Machined sidewalls provide decent braking performance.
Pros: Very affordable, allowing for a complete wheel build on a tight budget.; Decent durability for light to moderate touring.
Cons: Narrow internal width (18mm) limits tire size and comfort.; Not as sturdy as double-eyelet rims for heavy loads.
6. Alex Adventurer 2 700c: Solid All-Rounder
The Alex Adventurer 2 is a budget-oriented rim that performs adequately for light touring and daily commuting. With a single eyelet and machined sidewalls, it provides a decent braking surface and moderate durability. We researched owner reviews and found that many users are satisfied for short tours and paved roads, but some have noted that the rim can develop flat spots after heavy use. The 19mm internal width is average for touring rims but limits tire size to around 35mm.
This rim is not recommended for heavy loaded touring or rough off-road conditions. If you need a rim for extended trips with significant gear, consider the Velocity Dyad or Mavic A719. The Adventurer 2 is best for budget builds or as a rear rim for occasional use.
- Affordable option with a reasonable weight for touring.
- Single eyelet design helps prevent spoke hole cracking.
- Machined sidewalls offer consistent braking in dry conditions.
Pros: Good value for a basic touring rim.; Adequate for light touring and commuting.
Cons: Narrow internal width limits tire volume.; Some users report premature wear on the braking surface.
7. Mach1 140 700c: Entry Level Touring Rim
The Mach1 140 is an entry-level rim that offers the lowest cost for a 700c touring rim. It is lightweight and available in common drillings, making it easy to build a basic wheel. We compared its specs to other budget rims and found that it lacks eyelets, which can increase stress on the rim bed and lead to spoke failure under heavy loads. Owner feedback suggests that it works for light touring and commuting, but it is not suitable for heavy loads or rough roads.
This rim is best for cyclists on a very tight budget or for building a spare wheel set that will see occasional use. If you plan to tour with any significant gear, invest in a rim with eyelets and a wider internal width. The Mach1 140 is a compromise that may not hold up to extended touring.
- Very low cost, ideal for budget wheel builds.
- Machined sidewalls provide basic braking performance.
- Available in multiple drillings for different hubs.
Pros: Extremely affordable for entry-level touring.; Lightweight for its class.
Cons: Non-eyelet design can lead to spoke fatigue over time.; Narrow internal width (17mm) limits tire compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rim width for touring?
For touring, an internal width of 19-21mm is ideal as it supports tires from 32mm to 45mm, providing comfort and stability. Wider rims (21mm+) allow lower tire pressures for better traction on rough roads, while narrower rims (17-19mm) are lighter but limit tire volume. We recommend 19-21mm internal width for most touring needs.
Should I choose rim brakes or disc brakes for touring rims?
It depends on your frame and preferences. Rim brake rims have machined sidewalls for braking, while disc brake rims do not require a braking surface and can be lighter. For long tours with heavy loads, disc brakes offer better stopping power in wet conditions, but rim brakes are simpler to maintain. Ensure your rim matches your brake type.
How many spokes do I need for a touring rim?
For loaded touring, 32 or 36 spokes are standard. 36 spokes provide more strength and redundancy, while 32 spokes are lighter and sufficient for moderate loads. For heavy touring with panniers, 36 spokes are recommended for durability.
Are tubeless rims better for touring?
Tubeless rims can reduce punctures and allow lower tire pressures for comfort, which is beneficial on long tours. However, they require tubeless tires and sealant, which can be messy to repair on the road. Many touring cyclists prefer tubes for simplicity. Tubeless-ready rims offer the option to run either setup.
Can I use a touring rim for gravel riding?
Yes, many touring rims are suitable for gravel riding, especially wider models (21mm internal width) that can accommodate 40-50mm tires. However, if you prioritize weight savings for climbing, consider a lighter gravel-specific rim. For durability on rough terrain, a touring rim is a solid choice.
Our Verdict
After researching specifications and owner feedback, our top pick is the Velocity Dyad for its proven durability and braking performance under heavy loads. For a balance of value and performance, the Mavic A719 is the runner up, offering a strong rim at a reasonable price. Choose the Dyad if you prioritize strength, or the A719 if you want a cost-effective workhorse.
More Wheels Guides
Video Guide
Video: Related tutorial from YouTube