MAGENE – EXAR – Karbon Jant Seti – Carbon Fiber Wheelset Ultra Dark Series – DB405

The Magene EXAR Ultra Dark Series DB405 (2025/2026 Edition) is the definitive “climber’s choice” in the EXAR lineup. While the DB607 you previously looked at is a deep-section aero weapon, the DB405 focuses on high-modulus stiffness and a lower rotational weight for punchy accelerations and steep gradients.

The “Ultra Dark” variant specifically features a stealth-black night coating with subdued logos for a premium, integrated look.

## DB405 Technical Specifications

The DB405 uses a staggered rim depth strategy (40mm front / 45mm rear) to maximize stability in crosswinds while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency at the rear.

### Key Features & 2025 Updates

• Stiffness-to-Weight: By using HI-MOD T800 carbon for both the rims and the spokes, Magene has achieved a weight class usually reserved for much more expensive European wheelsets. The carbon spokes are 30% lighter than steel equivalents but offer 30% higher tensile strength, resulting in zero-flex power transfer.

• Aero Stability: The 40mm front rim is significantly easier to handle in unpredictable crosswinds than the 60mm version. The 30mm external width creates a “fat” profile that smooths airflow when paired with modern 28mm tires.

• Flat Ratchet Design: The updated 36T ratchet system provides a larger engagement surface than traditional pawls. It is fully compatible with the DT Swiss system, allowing you to easily swap to a 54T ratchet if you want even faster engagement.

• TPU Optimized: Magene specifically mentions that the dynamic balance of the wheel is designed for use with ultra-light TPU inner tubes (like RideNow), though they remain fully tubeless-ready (hooked rim).

### Performance Comparison: DB405 vs. DB607

• Climbing: The DB405 wins decisively. It is roughly 150g–170g lighter than the DB607, which is a significant reduction in rotating mass for mountain riding.

• Sprinting: The DB405 feels “snappier” off the line.

• High-Speed Cruising: The DB607 will hold speed better above 40 km/h due to the higher inertia of the 60/67mm rims.

What’s in the box?

Standard shipments include the wheelset, 2x tubeless valves, tubeless rim tape, and 50x rim plugs (which can be used instead of tape to save an extra ~20g if running clincher tires with inner tubes).