Test Oquo RP50 LTD and RA57 LTD long-lasting wheels

For those who don't already know, the Oquo division is to Orbea what Roval is to Specialized, namely the "wheel" branch of a major bicycle manufacturer. With this test which spanned nearly four months of riding in all conditions, it wasn't one pair but two that underwent regular outings in very varied weather and on very diverse routes. At first glance, while the 50 and 57 mm profiles may seem very similar, on the route Their behavior is different enough to warrant their joint inclusion in the catalog and to cause a degree of hesitation in the potential user. But these kilometers covered should allow for a decision, depending on the chosen direction and, of course, on the cyclist themselves.

Text: Olivier Dulaurent – ​​Photos: 3bikes.fr, oquowheels.com/fr

Oquo is therefore a Basque brand, just like Orbea, which happens to be at the origin of this entity. In mid-2025, Oquo redesigned its wheel range, introducing lightweight proprietary hubs and new carbon rim profiles.
The second generation of wheels is offered in three specification levels. The top-of-the-line LTD models, which we're focusing on here, are equipped with the new Q10 hubs and Sapim CX-Ray spokes. The lower-level Team and Pro ranges retain the Zipp ZR1 hubs.
The wheels are produced in Oquo's new state-of-the-art R&D and manufacturing facility, located in Bizkaia (Biscay), in the Spanish Basque region.
Oquo has enjoyed notable success since its launch in 2022, achieving podium finishes in the Tour de France and the Downhill Mountain Bike World Cup.
The brand was initially an exclusive partner of the Spanish manufacturer Orbea, within the same Basque cooperative. It was only later that it became an independent brand.

A factory capable of producing 1500 pairs of wheels per day
The new R&D and production facility allows for the assembly of up to 1500 pairs of wheels per day, while creating more than 100 skilled jobs.
For this new generation, Oquo has redesigned the rim profiles, created a new lightweight hub, and expanded the range with a race-oriented aerodynamic option that is also suitable for a mix between route/Gravel and represented here by the RP50 LTD of the test.

Concept of " mini hook« 
Oquo has retained the same rim and mini-hook design that it introduced on the first generation. Unlike the rims Hookless, mini hook maintains compatibility with inner tube tires, while also allowing the use of tubeless tires, which appears to represent the best of both worlds.

Le mini hook is approved to go up to 6,5 to 7 bars on routea pressure higher than that of the rims Hooklesslimited to 5 bars.
While the tire/rim interface remains similar, the rim shapes and profiles are entirely new. Their development spanned three years, with input from riders of the Orbea and Lotto teams sponsored by Oquo.
tests on routeCombined with wind tunnel validations, these were essential according to Oquo.

New, lighter and simpler hubs
Oquo previously used Zipp ZR1 hubs across its entire range. For the second-generation LTD models, the brand designed a new hub: the Q10.
The hub body is CNC machined from 7075 T6 aluminum, a material that Oquo claims is more durable than steel, while also being lighter and stiffer.
The new ratchet freewheel system, called Shark Ratchet, combines a 45-tooth engagement with full ceramic treatment, reducing friction and offering a rapid 8° ​​engagement angle.
The hubs use custom-made stainless steel bearings, low-friction seals, and a proprietary water-resistant grease. Oquo claims they maintain performance down to -50°C.
The advertised weights are 175g for the rear and 104g for the front. For comparison, the hub route The lightest DT Swiss, the DT 180, weighs 192g at the rear and 93g at the front. The Q10 has thus become one of the lightest CenterLock hubs on the market.

Tool-free maintenance
The assembly uses a wireless interfacetage, allowing demontage, inspection and maintenance without any tools.
Oquo has therefore reinforced the quality of the seals, which are advertised as highly effective and resistant, preventing water and dust infiltration. Even changing the freehub body (Shimano ↔ SRAM) is done without tools, simply by replacing a part.

Personalization

Oquo now offers several custom graphic finishes, inspired by Orbea's MyO program. This customization was only made possible thanks to the complete in-house assembly and manufacturing process.

Oquo wheels stamped LTD
The LTD range thus includes, at one end of the "spectrum", the RP35 LTD, designed for the most rugged profiles with its 35 mm rim depth and weight of 1244 g. At the other end are the RA80 LTD, the model dedicated to time trials and triathlon with its 80 mm rim (weight of 1626 g).

In the middle of the wide gap between these two pairs of wheels, we find the two models testes:
– RP50 LTD
The RP50 LTD (50mm rim depth) is designed for both gravel riding and cobbled classics. In fact, these wheels were initially developed to meet the needs of the Lotto professional team riders competing in the Flemish classics. Their 25mm internal width allows for the natural use of wider tires. They also incorporate the principle of... mini hookTheir weight is 1420 g.

– RA57 LTD
This is a direct competitor to the well-known Zipp 404, Roval Rapide, and ENVE SES 4.5. With a rim depth of 57 mm and an internal width of 23 mm (2 mm narrower than the RP50 LTD), they weigh in at just 1460 g. According to Oquo, this model offers the best compromise between lightness, aerodynamic stability, and speed within their range.

On route

In total, approximately 2000 km were covered with the RP50 LTD wheels and 1000 km with the RA57 LTD wheels. Some rides were split into two parts, switching between wheelsets midway through to highlight the differences. The tires used were identical to avoid introducing this factor into the comparison.

RP50 LTD

As mentioned above, the wheels were fitted with 28mm Continental GP 5000 tubetype tires. It should be noted that Oquo recommends using this model with tires from 29mm wide, given the 25mm internal rim width, but the 28mm tires did not cause any problems over time. test. Due to the large volume created by the rim width, the pressures could be lowered.that is to say with values ​​close in tubetype to what they would have been in tubeless – in this case 4/4,5 bars front and 4,5/5 bars rear.

Thus, the characteristic felt from the very first turns of the wheels on routeIn average condition, the excellent comfort is directly linked to the tire volume and lower pressure. And even then, this perceived quality was only observed with 28mm tubetype tires, whereas...They probably show their best performance in 30 or 32 mm or even tubeless (no teste)However, I was even able to testDuring about fifteen outings, I tested the RP50 LTDs on a section of light gravel, similar to Strade Bianche, starting from/reaching accommodation, while gaining confidence with each ride. Guillaume many had testsuccessfully completed during his test of the Orbea Terra Race (Gravel). Therefore, we understand the interest of the riders of the professional Lotto team in this model, particularly for cobbled Flemish Classics.

At the other end of the usage, the wheels were subjected to long climbs, including twice climbing Mont Ventoux.

In all cases, in terms of dynamic behavior, these are wheels that are both rigid and responsive.

The RP50 LTDs then seem to truly accompany the cyclist in the search for performance, on very varied terrains ranging from very rolling terrain to very hilly profiles.

But if yield is the goal, they adapt to ittagof a smooth and rounded pedaling motion – which does not exclude high power outputs – rather than forceful and jerky pedaling, especially with a rigid frame such as the Factor Ostro which was used during the testIn case of fatigue, with the increased difficulty of maintaining a sufficiently high cadence, these stiffness characteristics become even more noticeable and can be a disadvantage. Contrary to what one might initially think about stiff equipment, the best efficiency is achieved at a fairly high cadence. But unless you choose a lower profile, it's difficult to achieve this type of performance (fast and stiff like with these RP50 LTD wheels) when you have strong legs, and to have wheels that are very easy to manage when your cadence drops or your power output decreases, for example, on long, steep climbs (high mountains).tagne). For these situations, the RP35 LTD (see photos below) are probably more suitable, especially if you are not among the most robust builds.

The wheels' behavior on descents was also highly appreciated. Indeed, lower tire pressure provides grip and makes it easier to absorb the road's imperfections. route at high speed to the benefit of touch precision route and relaxation, therefore confidence.
And thanks to the wider rim section, Oquo claims reduced sensitivity to crosswinds. In practice, this width also provides greater confidence when entering corners, where it becomes less necessary to force the bike. In any case, the cyclist becomes more confident without necessarily checking wind speeds on weather apps before heading out. However, in certain situations, such as descending Mont Ventoux with a wind speed of "only" around 50 km/h, the bike becomes more difficult to handle than with the 30mm deep wheels I also use.

Finally, it should be noted that, due to the rim's width and as mentioned above, It is possible to consider purchasing the RP50 LTD for its dual nature. route/GravelIn other words, they can be used as performance wheels for two bikes in your garage, although regularly changing the tires can become tedious if using Tubeless tires in both cases.

RA57 LTD

Using the same tires as during the RP50 LTD runs, to achieve the same feel of route The pressure had to be adjusted by an additional 0,5 bar, again due to the increased volume achieved thanks to the 25 mm internal width in the case of the RP50 LTD. This immediately resulted in the following: slightly less comfort, a phenomenon amplified by the higher profile which therefore deforms less on roughness and shocks.

Unsurprisingly, there are many similarities in terms of dynamic behavior with its "little sister." We therefore find significant rigidity, but without making it feel like a "piece of wood." In some ways, and again this was to be expected, this is the "plus version". The stiffness setting is increased, acceleration at the start of a false flat is slightly improved, and sections tackled at maximum power seem even more beneficial. These factors make it a very efficient wheelset when performance is the goal, such as when regularly competing on Sundays.

Furthermore, in the presentation of this product, Oquo announces the following points: The 57mm profile wheel is the most versatile in the aero range. It offers a perfect balance between lightness, high-speed efficiency, and increased comfort compared to the 80mm profile. The rim design is optimized to improve stability in crosswinds. This wheelset is perfect for cyclists looking for a fast and responsive ride without sacrificing versatility on a variety of terrain.

However, while Oquo is referring here to the versatility of the aero range (consisting of the 80 and 57 mm models), The best compromise in terms of overall versatility is definitely the 50mm version.This one proves slightly more maneuverable in tight corners, more comfortable, more forgiving when energy flags, less tiring in crosswinds, and easier to handle on climbs, so overall, it's better suited to routes with elevation gain. However, it will still be possible to opt for the taller version of the two. for its sporty look and even more muscular aesthetic.

Two pairs of wheels more distinct than expected

Upon receiving for the test With these two pairs of wheels, I thought I would be comparing two products that were difficult to differentiate. But in practical terms, while some characteristics are common, such as excellent efficiency and the ability to ride fast by combining power and cadence, certain difficult situations such as a strong crosswind, leg fatigue, or navigating on poor conditions routes, were able to highlight two sometimes more distinct behaviors. In this test, the 50mm version was a pleasant surprise and proved very enjoyable to ride, thanks to its greater agility and increased comfort, even though it still had plenty of power to spare when running with 30 or 32mm tires and tubeless setups. Admittedly, this would have added a little extra weight, but their silky-smooth ride would have been even more impressive.tagIt has been highlighted. As for the RA57 LTD, these are primarily wheels designed for speed, whether in competition or even among friends for a Sunday outing where riders know that the last hour will be the fastest.
In all cases, we must also mention the very successful aesthetics of the wheels, as here with the Oquo marking or differently using a very complete configurator to associate the color chosen for part of the rim sidewalls with that of your bike or club equipment.

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