Introduction: Background and Purpose of This Review

This article introduces ICAN's latest carbon gravel wheels, the "G40."
It is based on a hands-on review and data analysis by Italian creator Lorenzo Del Sant, with content organized and reconfigured by ICAN Japan's official team.

These wheels were not chosen merely for a product review.
Lorenzo's ongoing project is the highly ambitious goal of building a high-performance gravel bike using only Chinese-brand parts, without compromise. The ICAN G40 was adopted as a core component for this project.

In this article, we will objectively and calmly examine the first impressions upon unboxing, external checks, actual weight, component configuration, and consistency with manufacturer-published specifications.
The goal is to determine if these wheels are chosen not for their low price, but for their performance and quality.

Unboxing and First Impressions: Quality Control Evident in Detail

For a wheelset, the impression upon unboxing is surprisingly important.
The protection during shipping and the included accessories reflect the brand's attitude.

The ICAN G40 arrived in a dedicated box with the #IcanWheels logo.
The contents were meticulously packaged, and Lorenzo himself rated it as "secure enough for international shipping."

Contents of the Package

• Wheelset: Well-protected with ample cushioning

• Tubeless tape: Ready for immediate setup

• Warranty card: Clearly states model name, serial number, and warranty start date

• Factory inspection report: Proof of quality check before shipment

• Freehub:

  • Shimano 11/12-speed (pre-installed)

  • SRAM XD (included as a spare)

Particularly noteworthy is the inclusion of a SRAM XD freehub as standard.
This shows consideration for the possibility of future use on other bikes, demonstrating the flexibility characteristic of gravel applications.

Exterior Design

The new ICAN logo is a subtle gray tone.
Its appearance changes depending on the light, creating a sophisticated finish that isn't overly ostentatious.
Overall, it gives the impression of prioritizing "completeness over flashiness," a design that would fit very well into the Japanese market.

Deconstructing Technical Specifications: What Makes the G40 Superior?

From here, we will look at the G40's internals one by one.
We will explain not just the numbers, but "why this specification."

Rim: 40mm x 25mm Internal Width – Modern Gravel Design

■ Rim Depth: 40mm

The G40 comes in two options: 40mm and 50mm, but Lorenzo chose the 40mm.
The reason is clear: the balance of weight and ease of handling.

For gravel riding, which spans paved and unpaved roads, lightness and stability are more important than excessive depth. 40mm is the optimal solution for this.

■ Internal Width: 25mm

The measured internal width is 25mm.
This is a highly ideal figure for current gravel wheels.

• Firmly supports tire sidewalls

• Stable even at low pressures

• Good balance of rough-terrain capability and rolling resistance

■ Hooked Rim

The G40 adopts a hooked rim.
This allows it to be compatible with both tubeless and clincher tires, increasing tire selection freedom.

■ Recommended Tire Size

To leverage the 25mm internal width, 30mm or more is ideal.
Lorenzo's project plans to use 45mm gravel tires.

Hubs: Newly Designed 36T Ratchet System

The biggest evolutionary point of the G40 is its new rear hub.

• Employs a 36T ratchet mechanism

• Similar structure to DT Swiss systems

• Quick and reliable engagement

According to ICAN, this structure achieves
"smooth and quick engagement with long-term durability."

The fact that only the hub has been updated while using the same rim as the company's G25 indicates that this model is more than just a variation.

The freehub sound is a delicate volume, clearly audible but not excessive.
It strikes a balance between practicality and preference.

Spokes and Lacing: Reliability-Focused Configuration

• Uses Sapim spokes

• Both front and rear use crossed lacing × high spoke count

The design prioritizes security, rigidity, and durability for gravel riding, rather than just aiming for lightness.
This configuration inspires confidence for long rides and situations involving heavy loads.

Actual Weight: Below Manufacturer's Stated Value

Actual measured weight: 1300g.
Moreover, this is the "realistic state" value, excluding tape and accessories.

The result of 20g lighter than the manufacturer's stated weight can be seen as a testament to their confidence in quality control.

Out-of-the-Box Accuracy: Nearly Perfect

As a result of the truing check,
both front and rear wheels showed less than 1mm of lateral and radial runout.

This is essentially "ready to ride" accuracy,
indicating a level of completeness that doesn't require further adjustment at a shop.

Price and Logistics: Strengths of a Direct-to-Consumer Brand

• Price: Around 800 USD
  → Approximately 120,000 JPY when converted to Yen

• Shipping included

• Normal delivery time: 1 week

Choosing to ship from a Japanese warehouse allows for delivery in as little as 1-2 days.
Considering the price and performance, these are highly competitive conditions.

Conclusion: The G40 is a Gravel Wheel that Clearly Exceeds its Price

The ICAN G40:

• Is lighter than measured

• Has a modern rim design

• Features significantly improved hubs

• Has high assembly precision

It is a rare existence that fulfills all these while keeping the price down.

Next time, we plan to review its on-road/off-road performance.
However, even now, it is clear that the G40 is a "seriously competitive gravel wheel."

For those who prioritize performance over cost.
The ICAN G40 is a wheel that will surely meet those expectations.