Carbon bicycle wheels have become extremely popular in recent years due to their stiffness, light weight and durability. Different types of carbon weaves are used in the production of carbon bicycle wheels to achieve different performance characteristics. In this article, we'll look at the optical differences between the different carbon weaves, including 3K, 3KT, 12K, 12KT, marble, and UD.
Let's start with the 3K carbon weave. This is the most common carbon weave used in bicycle wheel production. The 3K carbon weave consists of small, square weave structures that are woven closely together. The result is an even texture with small, regular squares that form a kind of diamond pattern. The 3K carbon weave is usually used to give a classic, neutral look to the bicycle wheels.
The 3KT carbon weave is very similar to the 3K carbon weave, but has a slightly different texture. The 3KT carbon weave has a more triangular weave structure, resulting in a triangular pattern instead of a diamond pattern. This gives the bicycle wheels a slightly different look than the 3K carbon weave.
The 12K carbon weave has a much larger weave structure than the 3K and 3KT carbon weave. The 12K carbon weave consists of larger, rectangular weaves that are woven less tightly together. This results in a coarser, more noticeable texture on the bicycle wheels. The 12K carbon weave is often used to give a more aggressive, sportier look to the bicycle wheels.
The 12KT carbon weave is similar to the 12K carbon weave, but also has a triangular weave structure instead of rectangular weaves. This allows for greater variation in the texture on the bicycle wheels.
Marble carbon weave is one of the most striking carbon weaves. The marble carbon weave has a pattern that resembles marble, hence the name. The pattern consists of a combination of different colors that blend into each other. The marble carbon weave is often used to give bicycle wheels a unique, eye-catching look.
UD (uni-directional) carbon weave is a weave structure in which all carbon fibers are woven in the same direction. This creates a very uniform texture on the bicycle wheels. UD carbon weave is often used to give bicycle wheels a minimalist, modern look.
Conclusion
In this blog we have investigated the optical differences between different carbon weaves in bicycle wheels. We have seen that each type of weave has its own unique look and characteristics, from the more subtle 3K and 3KT weaves to the coarser and more striking 12K and 12KT weaves, and even the Marble and UD weaves that have a very different look. By better understanding the different weaves, cyclists can make an informed choice that fits their specific needs and preferences.