Hookless Rims: Everything You Need to Know
Hookless rims have become a hot topic in the cycling world, especially among performance-focused road and gravel riders. But what exactly are hookless rims, and should you be riding them?
In this guide, we’ll break down how hookless rims work, their advantages, potential limitations, and why Polymer Workshop's Enhance 50:52 and Venture 38:38 wheelsets are designed to take full advantage of this modern rim technology.
What Are Hookless Rims?
Hookless rims, also known as TSS (Tubeless Straight Side) rims, are a type of bicycle rim that eliminates the inner bead hook traditionally used to hold the tire in place. Instead of a hooked profile, hookless rims have a straight sidewall that allows the tire to sit flush against the rim bed.
This design relies on tight tolerances between the rim and tire bead to ensure a secure fit, especially when used with tubeless tires.
Benefits of Hookless Rims
Hookless rims aren’t just a passing trend—they offer several performance and engineering advantages:
1. Lower Weight
By removing the bead hook, manufacturers can reduce material use, resulting in a lighter rim. Less rotational mass = better acceleration and climbing.
2. Improved Aerodynamics
The transition between the tire and rim is smoother with hookless designs, which reduces aerodynamic drag, particularly valuable on road setups like the Enhance 50:52.
3. Stronger Sidewalls
Straight sidewalls allow for more uniform carbon layup, increasing the rim’s impact resistance, ideal for rough roads or gravel terrain.
4. Wider Internal Widths
Hookless rims often feature wider internal widths, allowing for better tire profiles and improved cornering grip at lower pressures.
Limitations to Consider
While hookless rims offer clear benefits, there are a few important considerations:
- Tire compatibility: You must use tires explicitly rated for hookless rims, typically labelled “hookless approved.”
- Pressure limits: Most hookless rims are limited to a maximum of 72.5 psi (5 bar). This makes them best suited for 28mm or wider tires.
For most road and gravel riders running modern tires at lower pressures, these limitations are rarely an issue.
Hookless Rims in Action: Enhance 50:52 & Venture 38:38
Polymer Workshop has fully embraced hookless technology across its latest performance wheelsets.
Enhance 50:52 - Fast, Aero & Responsive
- 50mm front / 52mm rear depth
- 23mm internal width
- Optimized for 28 mm+ tubeless tires
- Ideal for rolling terrain and high-speed road rides
- Hookless rim for aero gains and reduced weight
Venture 38:38 - Built for All Roads
- 38mm front & rear depth
- 25mm internal width
- Designed for gravel, all-road, and endurance rides
- Hookless profile supports wide tires at low pressures
- Durable yet lightweight carbon construction
Both wheelsets are engineered around hookless rims to give riders the best in performance, compatibility, and modern tire support.
Final Thoughts: Are Hookless Rims Right for You?
If you're riding tubeless tires, looking for weight savings, or want the latest rim technology, hookless rims are a smart upgrade. With the right tires and setup, they offer better aerodynamics, control, and efficiency.
The Enhance 50:52 and Venture 38:38 wheelsets from Polymer Workshop are prime examples of how hookless technology can elevate your ride, whether you're hammering tarmac or exploring gravel roads.
Learn more about Hookles and the advantages