Industry Nine Trail S 1/1 Wheelset 29" [Rider Review]

Our "Rider Review" article series features the honest reviews from verified purchasers of Worldwide Cyclery. They contain the photos, thoughts, feedback & overall review you are looking for.

Industry Nine is a company that comes to mind for many when upgrading wheels. Their Trail S 1/1 is a very durable wheelset with high engagement hubs. Our friend, Steve, threw on I9's Trail S 1/1 on his rig and loves them.  See what he thinks!

Overview

I have been blown away by these wheels. These wheels want to roll down the trail with little effort. If you have only ever ridden stock wheels, get some of these Industry Nines and you won’t be disappointed.

I’m guessing I am the target customer for these wheels. Most of my riding pals have the more expensive I9 versions, but I was not ready to plop down $1200 or more on a set of I9s. When these were announced, I immediately knew it was just what I was looking for. At $750 I believe this is a fair price, but I actually scored them for less with a Worldwide Cyclery Discount code.

I have only ridden OEM/ stock wheels from WTB, DT Swiss, and Roval. These I9 wheels weigh between 200-500 grams less that my previous wheelsets. I have heard for years that the biggest difference you can make on a bike was upgrading wheels and eliminating rolling weight. I was not sure what kind of difference this weight reduction would make but at this price point was willing to take a shot. Even with adding a heavier front tire than I had been running I noticed the immediate difference. Not just in rolling ease, but also in how they made my bike come alive.

The front wheel in particular seems so much easier to flick around and be playful with.

I purchased these wheels for a 2018 Stumpjumper (29er). I had run wheels with internal rim widths at 23 mm and 30 mm. I did not particularly care for either and the 27 mm of this set seems to be perfect for my desire to run 2.2 – 2.35 size tires. The Maxxis Minion and Rekon that I put on set up tubeless very easily.

The wheels came from I9 with tape and valve stems installed. These wheels also piqued my interest due to the spokes used. Most I9 wheels have proprietary spokes. I travel a lot with my bike and I liked the ability to have the 1/1 wheels be quickly repaired at any bike shop that will certainly have this type of spoke in stock.

When most people talk about Industry Nine they talk about Engagement and Sound. These 1/1’s have less engagement than their flagship hubs but I have been very happy with them. I have not noticed a major difference with my older wheelsets but I have primarily ridden cross country trails with minimal technical climbing. I think the sound of these wheels is perfect. Out of the box, my wheels are not as loud as my fellow I9 riders. I understand this can vary based on oil/grease types and amounts. To me they are perfect. Not distracting while I am riding, but with the option of letting out a good roar when you want a fellow trail user to know you are approaching them.

Virtually everyone I have encountered since I purchased these wheels has commented on them. “Oh you have I9, I wish I had some.” I do not think most people are aware of this budget version but when I explain the differences they don’t seem to understand or care. They just gush over the I9 label.

Final Thoughts

I can only imagine what the flagship I9 wheels ride like. After 200 miles of use I am content and super pleased with what I purchased. I highly recommend them to everyone and will likely buy them again in a few years.