Shimano recently announced two new entry level mountain bike wheelsets to its range.

First up is the new WH-MT65 wheelset which is pitched at SLX level bikes.  It is fully UST compatible and is available in either standard Shimano centre-lock or 6-bolt rotor models.  Straight pull spokes are utilised for their increased durability and the wheels are laced with 24 stainless steel spokes.  Weight is 1796 grams per pair (817 ft/979 rr).  The Centre-lock version will be on the market from July while the 6-bolt version will be available from August.

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The Wh-MT15 wheelset is aimed at an entry-level mountain bike groupset with 28 bladed spoles per wheel.  Weight is 1982 grams per set (895 ft/1087 rr).  They will be available from September 2009.

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Both wheelsets feature striking black rims with white decals and are very reminiscent of the XT and XTR wheelsets.