Quick Verdict

The ICAN G40 is a 700C carbon gravel wheelset featuring a 40mm deep rim profile, 25mm internal width, and the ICAN D28 hub with a 36T star ratchet system. Officially listed at 1,321g ± 20g per set, it pairs Sapim CX-Ray spokes with a hooked tubeless-ready rim and carries a 2-year warranty.

In a candid video review from a Polish cyclist launching his "More Gear Than Talent" series, the G40 replaced a ~1,900g aluminum wheelset, saving approximately 600g of rotating mass. The result was a visibly transformed bike and a rider who couldn't stop smiling.

Bottom line: If you're on aluminum wheels and considering your first carbon upgrade, the G40 delivers measurable weight savings, flawless build quality, and genuine riding enjoyment — without requiring a professional budget. Direct shipping from US and European warehouses will include taxes and shipping costs.

First Impressions: Unboxing the G40

Packaging & Included Accessories

The wheelset arrived exceptionally well protected. Inside the box, the package included:

● A 2-year warranty card

● A build date label showing exactly when the wheels were assembled

● Generous amount of rim tape

● Two tubeless valves

This level of packaging detail signals a brand that understands the customer experience extends beyond the product itself.

Real-World Weight Check

Upon lifting the wheels out of the box, the reviewer's immediate reaction was telling:"But they're so light!"

He measured the complete set at approximately 1,300–1,330g — fully consistent with ICAN's official 1,321g ± 20g claim. His existing aluminum wheelset weighed roughly 1,900g, meaning the G40 delivered a ~600g reduction in rotating mass.

For context, saving 600g from wheels — rotating weight — has a far greater impact on acceleration and climbing feel than saving the same weight from the frame or handlebars.

 

Trueness & Build Quality

Before mounting, the reviewer performed a spin test on both wheels. Both front and rear wheels spun true out of the box with no wobble or hop. The bearings ran smoothly, and the overall fit and finish conveyed what the reviewer described as a "premium feel" — particularly notable given these were his first carbon wheels.

The handbuilt construction using Sapim CX-Ray spokes and Secure-Lock alloy nipples contributes to long-term tension retention, critical for gravel riding where constant vibration can compromise lesser builds.

Hub Sound & Engagement

The ICAN D28 hub employs a 36T star ratchet system — mechanically similar to proven DT Swiss designs — providing reliable engagement for efficient power transfer. The audible buzz is a matter of personal preference: some riders love the feedback, while others prefer a quieter ride. Either way, the engagement is crisp and responsive.

Installation Process

The reviewer documented his installation workflow step, the entire process took about half an hour plus cleaning time and proceeded without any complications. The reviewer specifically appreciated that everything fit correctly with no surprises — a testament to the G40's standard 12×100mm front / 12×142mm rear thru-axle spacing and Centerlock rotor interface.

Note: The reviewer chose to run tubes temporarily while waiting for tubeless inserts, citing concern about damaging the carbon rims. The G40 is fully tubeless-ready out of the box, with tape and valves included.

First Ride Impressions

The Measurable Difference

The 600g weight reduction was the one factor he insisted was beyond dispute. And the fact that it looks significantly better on a tall rim also cannot be faked."

 

The Joy Factor

" I'm really, really excited about these wheels. I've always dreamed of carbon wheels. When you dream about something for a long time, think about it constantly, and finally get to have it — the feeling is incredible."

"If something makes me want to get on the bike more and enjoy it more, I'm all for it. That's all there is to it."

This honest framing — acknowledging placebo while celebrating the real-world motivation it creates — resonates with anyone who has ever upgraded their bike for the sheer joy of it.

Pros & Cons

Strengths

● Real weight savings — ~1,300g actual vs. 1,321g claimed, saving ~600g over typical aluminum wheels.

● True out of the box — both wheels passed spin test with zero wobble,smooth installation, correct fitment.

● Premium feel — fit, finish, and bearing smoothness exceed expectations at this price point, 2-year warranty.

● Universal freehub compatibility — supports Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, Microspline, and Campagnolo N3W.

Considerations

Loud freehub — the D28 hub produces a pronounced buzz (subjective preference)

Tubeless setup — reviewer noted valve length was short, making inflation difficult; recommend checking valve length for your rim depth.

 

Final Thoughts

The ICAN G40 delivers exactly what it promises: a lightweight, true-running carbon gravel wheelset at an accessible price point. The reviewer's honest, self-aware approach — acknowledging his own "more gear than talent" status while celebrating the genuine joy the upgrade brought — captures something essential about why we upgrade our bikes in the first place.

Sometimes, the best upgrade isn't the one that shaves seconds off your PR — it's the one that makes you want to ride more. By that measure, the G40 succeeds completely.