North America’s New Powerhouse: Industry Nine and We Are One Unite MTB Wheel Innovation

Asheville moderate Difficulty

Industry Nine and We Are One have combined forces to produce high-quality mountain bike wheels crafted entirely in North America. This partnership solidifies the future of premium MTB components with a shared passion for durability and innovation.

Trail Tips

Choose wheels based on your trail style

For aggressive technical terrain, favor Industry Nine’s premium Hydra2 wheelsets with We Are One carbon rims for strength and responsiveness.

Support local craftsmanship

Buying North American-made wheels ensures you receive support and quality from brands committed to precise engineering and accessory availability.

Stay updated on product notifications

Industry Nine and We Are One plan to release groundbreaking products; subscribe to their newsletters to catch early access and spec updates.

Understand hub and rim compatibility

While the wheelsets are integrated, checking hub and rim compatibility is essential before upgrading to avoid unexpected fit or performance issues.

North America’s New Powerhouse: Industry Nine and We Are One Unite MTB Wheel Innovation

Industry Nine, the Asheville, NC-based craftsman of precision mountain bike hubs and components, has just taken a decisive leap forward by acquiring We Are One Composites, a Kamloops, BC carbon fiber rim specialist. This partnership, forged from years of collaboration, promises to keep the production of top-tier mountain bike wheels firmly rooted in North America, serving riders who demand quality, durability, and innovation.

The energy behind this union is raw and practical: with both brands continuing operations from their original locations, Industry Nine’s sharp engineering and machining expertise will blend seamlessly with We Are One’s carbon fiber mastery. This isn’t just a merger — it’s a strategic alliance designed to build on strengths rather than replace them. Industry Nine has already spec’ed We Are One rims in their premium Hydra2 wheelsets, while We Are One has relied on Industry Nine hubs for many of their popular builds.

Why does this matter to you, the rider? In recent years, the cycling industry has weathered storms with multiple brands folding under pressure. This move stabilizes North American manufacturing, allowing these companies to engineer products that meet the real-world demands of trail durability, ride smoothness, and reliable performance. Clint Spiegel, the founder of Industry Nine, emphasizes that by uniting, they’re better positioned to push the boundaries of bike technology—an exciting prospect for riders who crave cutting-edge performance without sacrificing quality.

Despite the acquisition, We Are One wasn't forced into the deal — this comes from aligned visions and shared values. The partnership aims to maintain their commitment to North American craftsmanship and keep innovation alive. Future products, expected to carry the Industry Nine name, may introduce breakthroughs in wheel technology, although specific details remain under wraps.

For riders who appreciate the details: Industry Nine’s traditional focus includes hubs, stems, and headsets machined in western North Carolina, while We Are One brings carbon rims crafted in British Columbia. This vertical integration means tighter quality control and faster advancement of integrated wheelsets built to tackle rugged backcountry terrain.

Mountains, rocks, mud, and technical descents will soon meet wheels designed with engineering and craftsmanship forged on this continent—combining expertise built on decades of experience. Whether you’re upgrading wheels for aggressive trail riding or looking for reliable, North American-crafted carbon components, this new powerhouse duo sets a path forward worth tracking.

In a world full of globalization, Industry Nine and We Are One’s fusion offers a grounded commitment: American and Canadian innovation built for riders who demand more than just a wheel— they want a trustworthy tool engineered to conquer the fierce and untamed trails ahead.

Recommended Gear

Hydra2 Carbon Wheelset

Essential

Premium wheels designed for aggressive trail riding with Industry Nine hubs and We Are One carbon rims, built for strength and speed.

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High-Quality Mountain Bike Tires

Essential

Complement your wheelset with tires offering tread patterns suited for your typical terrain and seasons.

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Multi-tool for On-Trail Adjustments

Essential

Allows you to tighten spokes, adjust hubs, or fix minor issues during a ride.

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Moisture-Resistant Grease

Protects hub components against snow, ice, and water ingress during wet or cold seasons.

winter specific

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Industry Nine acquire We Are One instead of continuing collaboration?

After years of partnership, both brands saw the acquisition as a natural next step to unify expertise in hubs and carbon rims. This places both companies in a stronger position to innovate and manufacture high-quality MTB wheels distinctly within North America.

Will the acquisition affect product availability or customer support?

Both brands will maintain operations within their regions, ensuring ongoing support and availability. Customers can expect continued servicing with possible expanded product lines under Industry Nine.

What makes North American-made MTB wheels special?

North American manufacturing focuses on precision machining, strict quality control, and quicker turnaround times. This means more reliable products tailored for demanding riders and better support for repairs and customization.

Are there plans for new wheel technologies from the combined companies?

The companies have hinted at future groundbreaking products combining Industry Nine’s engineering with We Are One’s carbon fiber expertise, though specific details haven’t been released yet.

Can I still purchase We Are One’s full carbon rims separately?

Yes, We Are One rims continue to be available as part of the combined product lineup, especially within premium Industry Nine wheelsets.

How does this acquisition affect riders looking for affordable wheel options?

Industry Nine previously used other manufacturers for lower-priced wheels; the future of more affordable wheels hasn’t been clarified, but the focus remains on North American-sourced components.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • "Industry Nine’s facility tours in Asheville offer a firsthand view of precision machining in action."
  • "We Are One’s Rim testing grounds near Kamloops provide trails with variable elevation and technical features."

Wildlife

  • "Black bears and white-tail deer roam the forests surrounding Asheville trails."
  • "Kamloops region hosts Canada’s bald eagles and mountain goats visible in high elevations."

History

"Both companies uphold North American manufacturing legacies—Industry Nine continuously supports Western North Carolina’s machining heritage, while We Are One champions Canadian carbon craftsmanship."