Wheel Upgrade Guide: DT 350 and Ultegra Hubs on DT R470db Rims
By fullertonbicycle | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Buying Guides
Compare two front wheel upgrades: a DT 350 hub on a Stan's Arch S2 rim for trail riding, or an Ultegra hub on a DT R470db rim for road disc. Use the decision rules to pick.
Quick answer
Choose the DT 350 / Stan's Arch S2 front wheel if you ride aggressive trail, all-mountain, or enduro and want a lightweight, durable tubeless platform. Choose the Ultegra / DT R470db front wheel if you need a value-focused 12mm thru-axle road disc wheel that arrives tubeless-tape ready.
Why rim width and intended terrain decide more than hub brand
The Stan's Arch S2 rim has a 28mm internal width, which is built around modern trail tires. That width supports a stable tire profile on rough ground, but it is wider than most road riders need. The DT R470db is a road disc rim, so it pairs with narrower road tires and a 12mm thru-axle frame. Neither wheel is a universal fit: match the rim to your tire type and your frame's axle standard before comparing hub names.
Tubeless setup is included on one wheel, not the other
The Ultegra / DT R470db front wheel ships with professional tubeless tape installation included. That saves a step if you plan to run tubeless road tires, but you still need a tubeless valve and sealant. The Stan's Arch S2 rim uses Bead Socket Technology for easy tubeless setup and a secure seal, but the listing does not state whether tape or valves are included. If you want a turnkey tubeless experience, confirm the small parts before ordering.
Where each wheel makes the most sense
The DT 350 hub is known for reliability, smooth rolling, and tool-free serviceability, which matters on trail wheels that see mud and impacts. The Ultegra / DT R470db wheel is positioned as a value performance road disc option with 28 spokes. If your riding is mostly paved and you want a straightforward 12mm thru-axle front wheel, the road-specific build is the more logical starting point.
Decision rules for choosing between these two front wheels
- Match the axle standard first: The Ultegra / DT R470db front wheel is listed as a 12mm thru-axle design. The DT 350 / Stan's Arch S2 listing does not state an axle standard, so confirm your fork's axle type and spacing before buying either wheel. If your fork is not 12mm thru-axle, do not assume the road wheel will fit.
- Choose by tire type: Pick the Stan's Arch S2 wheel if you run modern trail or all-mountain tires and want a 28mm internal width. Pick the DT R470db wheel if you run road tires and want a road disc build. A wide trail rim and a road rim are not interchangeable just because both are tubeless ready.
- Decide how much tubeless setup you want to do: The DT R470db wheel includes professional tubeless tape installation. The Stan's Arch S2 rim is designed for easy tubeless setup, but included tape and valves are not stated. Budget for valves and sealant on either wheel. If you want the fewest setup steps, the road wheel has the edge on included tape.
- Weigh serviceability against road value: The DT 350 hub offers tool-free serviceability, which is useful for trail riders who service their own wheels. The Ultegra / DT R470db wheel is a value performance road disc option with 28 spokes. Choose the hub that matches your maintenance habits and terrain, not just the price.
Product facts
- DT 350 / Stans Arch S2 Front Wheel: Stan's Arch S2 rim with 28mm internal width and Bead Socket Technology. The width and tubeless design suit modern trail tires and aggressive terrain.
DT 350 / Stans Arch S2 Front Wheel - Ultegra / DT R470db Front Wheel: 12mm thru-axle road disc front wheel with professional tubeless tape installation included and 28 spokes. It is a road-focused option that saves a tubeless taping step, provided your frame uses a 12mm thru axle.
Ultegra / DT R470db Front Wheel
Who each wheel fits
Best for
- Trail, all-mountain, and enduro riders who want a lightweight, durable tubeless front wheel with a serviceable DT 350 hub.
- Road disc riders with a 12mm thru-axle fork who want a value-focused tubeless ready front wheel with tape already installed.
Not for
- Road riders who need a narrow rim and a confirmed 12mm thru-axle fit; the Stan's Arch S2 is a wide trail rim.
- Riders whose fork is not 12mm thru-axle; the DT R470db wheel is listed for that standard.
- Anyone who needs a rear wheel or a full wheelset; both products here are front wheels only.
