3K vs 12K vs UD: Carbon Fiber Weaves For Rim And Frame

3K, 12K, UD - which carbon weave pattern is the most popular? How do they vary? Before looking further into these, we should make it clear: the weave option we’re talking about here is only part of the top layer of the rim. Simply put, the choice is more about aesthetics than performance.

What does 3K,12K and UD mean?

Carbon Fiber Tow is the thread used to weave carbon fiber fabrics. The number of filaments per tow determines what -K the weave is (i.e. 3k means there are 3,000 filaments per tow). There are several weave types: 1k, 2k, 3k, 12k. The widest is 12k, while 3k is the most common type of woven fabric used for carbon rims.

UD means uni-directional. Different from the decussated/twilled woven fabric, the UD fibers are parallel to each other. Decussate means that the fiber crosses to form an “X”. Twilled is a pattern of diagonal ribs. UD is the most popular type we use, followed by 3k, and then 12k.

UD weave appears in two styles: UD and Braided UD. The most creative Braided UD weave requires a more sophisticated carbon layup, thus will cost an extra $15.

There are several variations of 3K weave: 3K, 3K Twill (horizontal), 3K Twill (vertical), Hexa-Comb. They vary little in performance. “3K” and “Hexa-Comb” are listed as an option for some models. Yet feel free to leave a note at checkout or email us ([email protected]) if you want to special order.

Similarly, there are 12K variations like 12K, 12K Twill (vertical), 12K Twill (horizontal). 12K twill weaves are not listed online.

Differences of UD, 3K, and 12K

Weight:

Weave patterns have overlapping fibers, which is why woven fibers are usually heavier than UD. However, the weight differences between the three are slight - about 10 grams. This is negligible considering the error allowance of +/-15g per rim.

Construction:

The weaving of 3K carbon fibers is similar to a spider’s web. To balance the ratio of carbon fiber and resin we often add a 3K layer inside of the rim channel to filter redundant resin. The small gaps inside the 3K layer also reduce the probability of defects on the rim surface. 3K weave also protects the spoke hole from tear-out during the drilling process.

The 12K is the widest weave we offer, and therefore stiffer than 3K. The wider weave costs less in production, the 12K layer is slightly less expensive than 3K.

The UD fiber has maximum strength when running in the same direction. Torsional stiffness and impact resistance are increased as angles are oriented in each layer.

Appearance:

3K and UD are our most popular weave patterns. However, if you prefer a weave pattern observable from a distance, 12K is a good choice. Apart from the decussated weave, 3K and 12K twill weaves are now available at Light Bicycle. We also offer three rim finishes: Matte, Glossy and Satin (Satin is a mix of Glossy and Matte).

Matte: UD/3K/12K

carbon rim weave UD matte

carbon rim weave 3K matte

carbon rim weave 12K matte

Glossy: UD/3K/12K

carbon rim weave UD glossy

carbon rim weave 3K glossy

carbon rim weave 12K glossy

Now that you know more about the differences, which will you choose? Whether you want something bold and eye-catching, or subtle and stealthy, we’ve got a finish for you. Have any questions? Please let us know in the comments below.

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COMMENTS

Alexandra 2023/03/07

Can you do the falcon pro wr50 in a 12k glossy finish?

LightBicycle 2023/03/08

Hi Alexandra, Yes, we can make the WR50 gravel rims 700C with 12K carbon glossy. We can work on invoice for you and send through email. Thanks, Lightbicycle

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Kenn 2021/07/15

Will LB be providing a 3K/12K weave option for your AR45 rims anytime soon?

LightBicycle 2021/07/15

Hi Kenn, We can make a 3k or 12k weave on AR45 road disc rims 700C. The reason why we don't list it online is that the UD weave is the most popular so far. Thanks, Lightbicycle

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Morgan 2021/03/12

Hi, Having read the page above about the differences in the carbon weaves available I have a few questions. The information states that all the rims start off as the same rim core, what weave is the main core made out off? 3k, 12K or Uni-Directional? I am looking at buying these rims for my inspired street trails bike, would you recommend a certain type of weave for the use of these rims? Aesthetically I prefer the 3D finish but if the main body is in 3D and the UD provides a slight improvement in performance in the final layers I would like to understand before coming to a final selection. Thanks, Morgan Pedley.

LightBicycle 2021/03/13

Hi Morgan, 1. The main core is engineered with UD fibers with different angles according to the target characteristics of the specific rim design. 2. The UD is slightly stronger than 3K, 12K. But it's hard to notice unless you are professional riders with lots of experience and specific requirements. So, you can go with 3k if you like how it looks. 3. If you need som\e recommendations, I would need to learn more about your riding profile to know what's your best fit. What's your weight? With and without gear? What kind of riding you mostly do? What's the terrain like? What tire are you planning to run with? Will you consider yourself an aggressive rider? Do you have a budget for the wheelset？ Do you have an expecting lead time range? Thanks, Lightbicycle

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zo 2020/07/17

Are you able to do 42mm deep tubular rims for caliper brakes in a 12k twill? Thanks!

LightBicycle 2020/07/17

Hi Zo, We have 45mm deep, 25mm wide tubular rim 700C, is this work for you? You can check out the rim on this page. https://www.lightbicycle.com/Super-light-45mm-deep-25mm-wide-tubular-rims-700C-with-basalt-braking-surface.html Thanks, Lightbicycle

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Danny 2020/03/24

Hi For the rims of a road bike which one is more robust to absorb road holes? 3K or UD? Thank you Danny - Italy

LightBicycle 2020/03/25

Hi Danny, Theoretically speaking, bicycle rims with UD fiber would be stronger and better at impact resistance than other weave fibers. That's the reason why LB rims are made with all UD fibers besides the top layer of the rim. For 3K weave layer, it is used around spoke holes area for better drilling finish. You can barely notice the difference because there's only one layer (the top layer) carbon sheets layup with different weave. You can have the weave you like and minimize the strength difference of different weave carbon fiber. Thanks, Lightbicycle

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Rene 2019/12/08

Looking for MBT wheelset I always wonder if I really need 32H spoke count with my 90 kgs ready to ride weight. Can I keep your wheels together with 28 spokes and AM usage? Or do I miss some other details here. Please advise. Thanks, BG, Rene Netherlands

LightBicycle 2019/12/11

Hi Rene, Regarding your weight (90kg) and your riding style (all-mountain), the 28H F&R combo is okay with you. Which mtb AM wheels do you like? 29er or 650B? Thanks, Lightbicycle

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