Berd Sparrow50 Gold Carbon Wheels
Product Details
The Berd Sparrow50 Gold Carbon Wheels are engineered to deliver exceptional speed, efficiency, and control across demanding gravel terrain. Combining a deep 50 mm aerodynamic carbon rim with Berd’s lightweight, vibration-damping spokes, these wheels are designed to address two of gravel riding’s biggest performance challenges: aerodynamic drag and high-frequency vibration. The result is a wheelset that delivers race-level efficiency on smooth sections while maintaining the composure and comfort needed when the road turns rough.
The Sparrow50 Gold features a 50 mm deep carbon rim profile optimized for aerodynamic performance with 40 to 60 mm tires, with testing focused around 45 to 55 mm setups. Wind tunnel testing at the A2 Wind Tunnel demonstrated a 14% reduction in yaw-weighted aerodynamic drag compared with the previous-generation Sparrow, making the Sparrow50 Gold Berd’s fastest gravel wheelset through the wind. The 30 mm internal rim width provides an ideal platform for modern wide gravel tires, while the 4 mm hooked bead helps secure the tire and supports confident low-pressure riding.
Berd’s proprietary spokes provide the wheelset with another significant performance advantage. Weighing just 2.4 grams each, the spokes use viscoelastic damping to dissipate high-frequency vibration before it reaches the rider. This unique construction helps reduce the harshness and fatigue associated with rough gravel while maintaining efficient power transfer. Independent testing has measured a 5-watt rolling efficiency savings at 30 km/h, adding further performance to the wheelset’s lightweight and aerodynamic design.
At just 1,298 grams, the Sparrow50 Gold is exceptionally light for a 50 mm deep wheelset. Talon ESL-R hubs feature a lightweight 36-tooth ratchet for quick engagement, Tri-Coat aluminum freehub technology to resist cassette bite, and equal spoke lengths across both wheels for simplified servicing. The front hub also features tool-free convertible end caps for 12 mm and 15 mm axle compatibility.
Developed by Berd, the Sparrow50 Gold Carbon Wheels combine aerodynamic efficiency, vibration damping, low weight, and gravel-specific durability for riders looking to maximize performance across every type of terrain.
Key Features
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50 mm Aerodynamic Carbon Rim - Wind-tunnel optimized profile delivers 14% lower weighted-average aerodynamic drag than the previous-generation Sparrow
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Berd Vibration-Damping Spokes - Viscoelastic spokes absorb high-frequency gravel vibration while delivering exceptional strength and a claimed 5-watt rolling efficiency savings
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Lightweight 1,298 g Wheelset - Extremely low weight provides responsive acceleration and climbing performance without sacrificing aerodynamic depth
- 30 mm Internal Rim Width - Tubeless-ready rim is optimized for modern 40 to 60 mm gravel tires and low-pressure riding
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rim Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Internal Rim Width | 30 mm |
| Rim Depth | 50 mm |
| External Rim Width | 38 mm |
| Tubeless Compatibility | Yes |
| Wheel Size | 700c (29″; 622 mm Bead Seat Diameter) |
| Rim ERD | 541 mm |
| Rim Weight | 420 grams |
| Angle Matched Spoke Holes | Yes |
| Hole Count | 24 Holes Front and Rear |
| Brake Compatibility | Disc (Centerlock) |
| Front Hub Type | Berd Talon ESL-R |
| Front Hub Dimensions | 12 x 100 mm or 12 x 110 mm (both convertible to 15 mm) |
| Rear Hub Type | Berd Talon ESL-R |
| Rear Hub Dimensions | 12 x 142 mm or 12 x 148 mm |
| Freehub Compatibility | SRAM XD, Shimano Microspline, Shimano Hyperglide, or Campy N3W |
| Freehub Material | TriCoat™ Aluminum |
| Freehub Mechanism | High Engagement 36 Tooth Ratchet |
| Hub Manufacturer | Berd |
| Brake Type | Centerlock |
| Front Hub Bearings | 2 x 6803 bearings (17 x 26 x 5 mm) |
| Rear Hub Bearings | 2 x 15267 bearings (15 x 26 x 7 mm), 2 x 6802 bearings (15 x 24 x 5 mm) |
| Front Spokes | Berd PolyLight Spokes, 259 mm |
| Rear Spokes | Berd PolyLight Spokes, 259 mm |
| Lacing Pattern | Two-Cross Front and Rear |
| Nipples | Sapim Aluminum Double Square Secure Lock, Black |
| Tubeless Ready | Rim Tape and Valves Installed |
| Tire Type | Tubeless, Tube Type Clincher |
| Tire Compatibility | 40 mm – 60 mm (1.50″ to 2.35″) |
| Actual Measured Tire Widths | Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 700 x 45 mm: 45.6 mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 700 x 50 mm: 50.9 mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 700 x 55 mm: 55.7 mm Continental Dubnital Rapid Race 29 x 2.2: 55.3 mm |
| Maximum Tire Pressure | 60 psi (4.14 bar) |
| Wheelset Weight | 1,298 grams (without rim tape and valves) |
| Front Wheel Weight | 600 grams (without rim tape and valves) |
| Rear Wheel Weight | 698 grams (without rim tape and valves) |
| Intended Use | Gravel Racing and Riding |
| E-Bike Approved | Yes, up to 60 Nm/500 W |
| Weight Limit | 280 lbs / 127 kg |