HED Jet 6 Plus Carbon Road Wheelset - Clincher for Sale, Reviews, Deals and Guides

9.7
out of 10
19 Positive, 0 Mixed & 0 Negative
from 19 Reviews
Retail Price:
$999.99
Used Value:
$599.99
Sale Value:
$899.99

Wheels of the deep-dish — greater than 50mm — variety excel on flat courses, but very often we find ourselves on courses riddled with hills. Now, if they were just long drawn out grades, then any deep-dish would do. But all too often, they are of the brutal switchback variety where drafting is quickly negated. The HED Jet 6 Plus Clincher is a wheelset for the switchbacks. It's a dangerous cliche to say that the Jet 6 is a 'one-quiver' wheel, but that's exactly how HED designed it. It's heavier than a traditional climbing wheelset, but for most moderate hills, it's still more efficient and inherently faster.

Over the past 26 years of engineering wheels, Steve Hed's end goal remains the same: simply make them as fast as possible. So, it's almost a given that HED aerodynamics are superb. However, what you might not know is that these wheels' aerodynamics are equally matched by their low rolling resistance. We have HED's C2 rim concept concept to thank for this. Essentially, C2 is about reduction of the two C's — less Cda (aerodynamic drag) and less Crr (rolling resistance). Accordingly, a 25mm rim width makes this possible, and is mainly responsible for the wider-is-better campaign that's been replicated throughout the market. But, you're certainly wondering, why wider? Well, the width provides what can be described as an 'aero shroud' for the rest of the wheel. This also changes the nature of the tire's contact patch with the road.

However, HED also knows that faster speeds require a heightened sense of control. This becomes evident through HED testing, as it found that rim depths which cross the forty or fifty-millimeter threshold grow increasingly more difficult to handle in crosswinds. So, HED engineered a solution that it calls Stability Control Technology, or SCT. In regards to the wheel shape, at 0-15 degree yaw angles, SCT reduces the force put on the wheels by side winds. This makes the Jet 6's 60mm depth handle more like a 30 or 40mm deep wheel in crosswinds.

HED laces the rims to its Sonic hubs, which feature silky ABEC5 bearings on oversized axles — 12mm in front and 15mm in rear. Oversized axles flex less, resulting in smoother bearing loads and less mechanical drag. And its not only the axle that received a bigger-is-better treatment, as the hub flanges are spaced as wide apart as possible in order to create a stronger bracing angle. And again, this results in increased lateral stiffness.

Easing the maintenance to the rear hub, HED included a grease port and carbon port cap. True, it's a subtle convenience, but rejoice that this capped port ensures that you'll no longer need to rebuild your rear hub after repeated washings.

As we mentioned, the fairing is bonded to the rim, which means that the spokes engage at the rim rather than at the end of the fairing. The result is not only an increase to aerodynamics, as there are no exposed nipples, but also to an increase in lateral strength. However, like all wheels, there are nipples, and for them, HED used Sapim hex-headed aluminum nipples. These are treated with a light thread-locking compound and are accessed from inside the rim. They anchor the venerable Sapim CX-Ray spokes. The 18 front spokes are straight-pull, while the 24 rear spokes are J-bend for both sides.

At the rear, you'll notice a two-cross lacing pattern on both sides. HED did this for a simple reason — with ever-stiffer frames, the force of stomping on the pedals was increasing force on the wheels, which has in turn reduced mechanical efficiency. To counteract these forces, HED stiffened up the rear wheel so that no power would be lost to wheel flexing, thus putting more power into driving the bike forward.

The HED Jet 6 Clincher Wheelset is available with either a Campagnolo or Shimano compatible freehub body. Please note that both freehub bodies accept 11-speed cassettes, and that they're easily swapped out with two 5mm hex keys. The wheels come with HED steel-shafted skewers, valve extenders, and rim strips. Also worth mention is that HED does NOT recommend these wheels for riders exceeding 190lbs.

Deep section wheel for speed

Deep section wheel for speed

A deep-section wheel is perfect for cycling enthusiasts looking for an edge in speed and performance. Unlike shallow-section wheels, these deep-section wheels can provide greater stability and aerodynamic performance, allowing for faster speeds. Furthermore, these wheels are designed to provide superior braking power, allowing for maximum control no matter the speed. Perfect for racing, commuting, and training, these wheels have been tested and proven to provide riders with the perfect balance between speed and safety. With a range of sizes and materials available, these wheels offer the perfect solution for all riders looking to improve their performance.
Generous internal

Generous internal

Constructed from carbon fiber, this lightweight and durable wheelset is designed to provide you with the best performance possible, no matter the terrain. With its generous internal width, the Jet 6 Plus Carbon Road Wheelset Clincher provides enhanced traction for maximum control and comfort. The lightweight, aerodynamic profile reduces drag and increases speed, while the slightly wider rim width allows for larger tire selection and increased stability. With its reliable and smooth sealed bearing hubs, this wheelset is designed to be a long-term performance solution. Whether you’re a triathlete, commuter, or weekend warrior, the Jet 6 Plus Carbon Road Wheelset Clincher is the perfect choice for any cyclist.
Aluminum braking surface

Aluminum braking surface

Aluminum is a popular material for the braking surface of bicycles, as it is capable of handling heat and rain better than other materials. Aluminum is known for its strength, durability, and its ability to dissipate heat quickly. This makes it an ideal material for use in the braking surface of a bicycle, as it can remain strong and reliable in all kinds of weather conditions. The aluminum braking surface is able to remain level and consistent in even the harshest of conditions, allowing cyclists to remain safe while they ride. Additionally, its corrosion-resistant properties make aluminum an ideal material for a braking surface, as it will not corrode or become weak over time. The aluminum braking surface is also lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on the road. Overall, aluminum is an ideal material for use in the braking surface of a bicycle, as it is capable of providing a safe and reliable ride in all kinds of weather conditions.

Specifications

Brand:
HED
Brake Compatibility:
caliper
Claimed Weight:
[front] 724 g, [rear] 936 g, [complete set] 1660 g
Hubs:
HED Sonic
Manufacturer Warranty:
2 years
Recommended Use:
road cycling, cyclecross
Rim Depth:
60 mm
Rim Material:
aluminum, [foil] carbon fiber
Rim Width:
25 mm
Skewers:
included, steel
Spoke Count:
18 / 24
Spokes:
Sapim CX-Ray
Tire Type:
clincher

Full Reviews

10
My wife bought these for me as a gift on my 30th birthday in 2016. 4 years later these wheels are still going strong! Have never had any issues of any sort with these. I even changed my bike and opted for a non disc one because I did not want to get rid of the wheels! I ride 23mm Conti 5000 (previously 4000sii) and 25mm on the back. These were the recommended withs from HED. Very responsive, awesome breaking, great aerodynamics in headwinds, no stability or control issues in crosswinds. They even climb great!
Guillermo P., backcountry.com
December 10, 2020
10
Great improvement over the wheels that came with my bike without costing more than I paid for the bike. Instantly noticed a different with these wheels. My stock wheels were pretty standard and nothing special, but the difference going to the HED wheels was immediately noticeable all-around. These wheels roll better, are more comfortable, and engage quicker. The aero benefits are more noticeable than I imagined they would be.
JOhn H., backcountry.com
April 19, 2020
10
Have used this wheels for more than a year and love them, very stiff, light and high quality, not easy to find at this price!
Alex Rebollar, backcountry.com
January 28, 2020
10
My specialized tarmac pro's wheels cracked so I bought these to replace with Continental 4000 tubeless and they are smoking fast! KOMs that I've tried multiple times are coming easy for me! It made my bike feel like a brand new machine! I've had them for about 6 weeks now.
ras100335137, backcountry.com
December 8, 2019
10
I bought the white lettered 6+ here about 3 years ago for $800! The black lettered ones had just come out. Since then, I have 6,000 miles on them. Not one single issue, maintained through a bike shop only once. I run attack/force on them- the HED technician said this was the fastest aero wheelset. They are 22 and 23mm, but on the 6+ rim, they are 27 mm wide. They are smokin' fast. Easily add 10% to flat road speed. I'm mid 40s, and 190 lbs (so max rated), ASCENTS: I can't climb like I used to, but I am still ok... DESCENTS: I own every KOM locally , from 30 km HC runs to 500m declines. I have touched 61 mph on these wheels- on a 12% grade without turns stretched over a mile. Regularly I am over 50 mph... CROSSWINDS: what crosswinds? I never get blown around. Maybe it's because I'm a heavier rider... I can't imaging buying anything else...
Charles Haigh, backcountry.com
August 13, 2019
10
If you are looking for any affordable aero wheelset that wont completely break the bank, I would strongly recommend the Hed Jet 6 Plus. The aluminum brake track does not compromise braking performance like you get with some carbon wheels. The 60mm depth cuts thru the wind like a champ and the weight penalty for the aluminum rim in minimal. I run these on my tri bike with 25mm contis and have been extremely satisfied.
James Griffin, backcountry.com
November 7, 2018
8
I got a couple rides in on a demo set of these wheels and have initial impressions to share. This is an aluminum rim with a thin fairing over the structural portion of the rim. You can squeeze the fairing with your hand because of how thin it is. I mention this because some customers have called in, surprised about it. The wheel itself is stiffer than I'd anticipated, and the aero benefits are noticeable. As is always the case with HED, the quality and construction are solid. Considering the depth and the benefit of aluminum braking, as opposed to a carbon brake track that you'd typically find on a wheel of this depth, the claimed weight of 1,760 grams is reasonable. I would recommend this wheelset to anyone looking for a superbly dependable, aero, stiff wheelset that comes with the safety and dependability of an aluminum braking track.
Zach B, backcountry.com
October 16, 2018
10
Coming from only using stock wheels, these are an incredible upgrade. My first ride out I was floored as to how smooth and effortless they function compared to the stock wheels that came on my bike. So far I only have 70 miles on them as spring riding here in northern Minnesota is spotty. The miles I have put on have included some moderate cross winds and the wheels handled just fine, no noticeable push on the wheels. Breaking is fine, better than my stock wheels. I have had them up to 38 mph and they handle perfectly, no issues with vibration, again something my stock wheels couldn’t handle. On them I mounted conti tubes and conti GP 4000 S II. Getting the tires/tubes on requires tire levers, but no real struggle. One more thin, I did when these wheels arrived was to weigh them. They came in at 1715g, so not too far off the published value.
Jeff D., backcountry.com
March 19, 2018
10
* 3/9/18 Update * A quick update - I've raced on these, crits, hilly road races, ridden them in the rain, group rides, hills, and they have been excellent! Cross winds have not been an issue unless it's really bad out! Normal windy day is not a problem, gale force winds and you are on your own. -- Original review -- I picked up a set at the beginning of the month. Thus far, I am really happy with the wheels. They look great, hold their speed very nicely, are much stiffer than my Dura-Ace C24s for off the saddle efforts and they make a nice woosh sound ;-) One note. I have an 2012 Wilier with SRAM Rival and had to get creative to make the rear brake caliper fit on these wheels. So beware if you have older brake calipers. The front brake had no issues.
Francisco, backcountry.com
August 7, 2017
10
I got a set of HED Jet 6 Plus wheels about a week ago, I've put about 200 miles on them. My initial thoughts are that these wheels are absolutely incredible. The aerodynamic advantages are really noticeable, the wheels are so stiff they encourage you to really put power through the pedals, and the value is unbeatable. I got these on sale at Backcountry for $1099 (they took another $150 off the sale price the day mine arrived, guess I should have waited another week :) ). When you compare them to their closest competition in terms of rim depth and weight (looking at Mavic, Zipp, Bontrager, Roval), the HEDs come in consistently several hundred dollars cheaper. Now having experienced them firsthand, combined with the fact that they're consistently well-reviewed by magazines and testers, this is the best deal for a mid-depth aero wheelset out there in my opinion.
Alden H., backcountry.com
July 10, 2017
8
Four stars, because 5 stars in my world means off the charts. I will upgrade to a 5 star if they stand the test of time. I weight #170 and purchased these as a back up set of wheels when my ENVE 4.5s broke a spoke. I road them yesterday for 112 miles with 4000 feet of climb, lots of wind, and lots of motorhomes (its Alaska's tourist season). My concern with the deeper wheel was the wind. I get blown around a fair amount on the 4.5s, especially on cross winds and by large vehicles. That was markedly reduced with the Jet 6's. In fact, it was almost absent. I kept waiting for the Truck Suck, and it didn't happen. There were also considerable gusts- similarly, no problem. With a headwind coming in at an acute (maybe 20 degrees) angle, there was a little more catch with the Jet 6's, but very manageable, and just had to get used to it. The braking is excellent with standard Shimano pads. The hubs are super smooth and very fast. Also, the beefier skewers provided a lot of stability. There was no high speed wobble at 44.3 mph coasting down a big hill. I just started braking because I don't like going that fast. Twenty five millimeter Continental 4000s tires offered a plush ride, even over areas with a lot of gravel on the shoulder. They are a bit heavy, but despite that, I plan on using them as my primary wheel unless something comes up. Pros: Inexpensive, fast, great hubs, comfortable ride, good braking, great in crosswinds, fat skewers. Cons: A bit heavy. I would recommend these to a friend, especially one on a budget, without hesitation.
Jeff M., backcountry.com
June 11, 2017
10
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backcountry.com
April 23, 2017
10
I've ridden these wheel set on the flats, undulating hills. and up Mt. Lemmon in Tucson and they are so much fun to ride. I run the tires at 70 PSI and the wide internal width of 20.5 mm makes for a super comfortable and smooth ride. The 60 mm deep and wheel shape provides the aerodynamic gains. Wheel set is light enough to climb 26 miles at a steady 6% gradient with no problem. On windy days, I don't feel like I'm getting jerk around more than my 30 mm Zipp 101 wheel set. Considering how fast these wheels are I'm surprise it's not priced in the mid $2000. Overall, very impress with the HED Jet 6 + wheel set and not to mention the ability to run tubeless makes it my favorite wheel set.
Sompasong S., backcountry.com
October 4, 2016
8
I fell in love with these wheels the moment i saw them. Now they have over 500 miles on then and I still love them but the honeymoon period is over and the few flaws they have are starting to show. First off these wheels are far from stiff. That being said the ride comfort it amazing, just dont expect to win any sprints on these. I have snapped a spoke already. Another flaw I've noticed is the aluminium rear freehub. Miles of climbing and hard accelerations have not been nice to it and the casset has started cutting grooves into it. A new freehub is 100 dollars which is outrageous for something that becomes trashed after a few hundred miles. Instead ill be rebuilding the wheel with a bomb proof dura-ace hub and be done with it. That being said these are amazing wheels. They handle crosswinds, headwinds, rough roads, and hills like a champ. Plus the aero advantage you get with these wheels makes it easy to put the hurt on potential wheelsuckers and ride them off your wheel on the flats and rolling terrain, its a no brainer why these wheels are big in the tri sport community.
Sam Addison, backcountry.com
September 24, 2016
10
Struggled with the pros/cons of full carbon vs alu/fairing especially given the weight difference. In the end, I went with aero vs weight with the braking advantage as a plus. Especially on fast descents, with lots of braking, I love the extra security of alu breaking surface. Mounted Specialized 24mm tires and have ridden 500k with them. Pros: - silky smooth hubs...they roll so nicely - breaking is exceptional - comfort with wide rim and lower psi - fast fast fast... You can feel the "aero" as soon as you cross 30k/Hr - shockingly good in cross winds Cons: - installation...watch the YouTube video on installing! It will save pinch flats during install... Tubeless rims are tricky - not the lightest... But with tires and cassette did not feel much heavier than my Fulcrum 1's - have not climbed much yet with them, so no idea how they will do. But they roll so well! Super happy so far.
KEVIN M., backcountry.com
August 14, 2016
10
I love how fast these wheels are. The carbon faring gives you that extra aerodynamics to shed a few seconds on a race. You also have the option to run tubeless.
Patrick Law, backcountry.com
August 8, 2016
10
Things I care about, and do the Jet 6+ meet the requirements? 1- wide internal width Yep 2- tubeless Yep 3- aero Yep 4- all weather braking Yep 5- light Yep (well, as light as any wide tubeless ready carbon clincher you can buy for even 50% more money)
Scott H., backcountry.com
August 4, 2016
10
Smooth, fast and light
Leon V., backcountry.com
March 20, 2016
10
Ever since I started road training with these wheels, I've seen significant gains in average speed as well as top speeds. Also inspires more confidence on the bike. I look forward to using these for a long time.
Daniel H., backcountry.com
February 25, 2016