👉11 High-Performance Carbon Fiber Wheelsets Go Head-to-Head (Part 1)
👉11 High-Performance Carbon Fiber Wheelsets Face Off (Part 2)
👉11 High-Performance Carbon Fiber Wheelsets Face-Off (Part 3)
Building on the last conversation, let's review some high-end road bike wheelsets from overseas media:
Roval Rapide CLX II
Considered among the greatest aerodynamic wheelsets is the Roval Rapide CLX II. Perfect balance between aerodynamics and crosswind stability comes from the low, broad front wheel and the high, narrow rear wheel.
The in-house brand Roval from Specialized has grown to be somewhat important in the wheelset sector. They not only fit Specialized's own bikes but also show really great performance in retail. It is hardly surprising that Roval has come to be associated with race-level performance nowadays. Road bike cutting-edge innovation is embodied in the 35mm progressive-width rim. How then does this new wheelset do against its rivals?
All-Round Aero Wheelset? Roval Rapide CLX II Specifications
The Roval Rapide CLX II offers to manage a range of riding circumstances as an all-round aero wheelset. What architectural elements enable it to live up to this promise?
The wheelset first weighs 1,485g, around 100g more than the test average. Still, its distinctive design—especially with the broad front rim—stands out. Although its rim width at 35mm matches that of Reserve, its major rival, it differs from others in not progressively tapering inward. Perfectly matched with 28mm tires, this extremely broad rim achieves the 105% rule—where the rim width is 105% of the tire width. Aerodynamic theory holds that this design lowers drag and maximizes airflow.
The different rim heights—50mm in the front and 60mm at the rear—are another fascinating aspect. This mix seeks to combine the advantages of both rim depths, therefore offering enhanced stability together with aerodynamic efficiency.
Roval produced a specialized hub with a specifically curved design to reduce wind resistance; they did not stop at the rims. The DT Swiss internal technology helps to make the wheelset also quite dependable and easy to repair.
Most importantly, Roval backs its product with outstanding after-sales support: a lifetime guarantee and a 5-year crash replacement program, therefore providing riders peace of mind.
Smooth and Subtle: Roval Rapide CLX II
Whether Specialized's pro riders tackle the toughest, longest stages or fight for the finish line sprint, the Roval Rapide CLX II must handle any obstacle as their preferred wheel set. Its design language helps you to sense its intent.
The Rapide offers good comfort on lengthy rides since it is quite compliant. Of course, in liveliness and pedaling efficiency, the Rapide lags somewhat below carbon-spoked wheelsets. Still, it accelerates really nicely and maintains constant speed. A tougher structure would be desirable, though, for bigger riders or those with really high power output since the existing specs might reach their limitations rather quickly.
On climbs, the weight of the well-known rims becomes clear and causes a slight slowdown. Conversely, its low sensitivity to crosswinds is quite remarkable; it readily beats CADEX and HUNT in windy situations.
Roval Rapide CLX II in the Wind Tunnel
Riding the Roval Rapide CLX II makes one easily feel that it is among the greatest aerodynamic wheelsets available. Like the Reserve, the Roval shows a clear "sail effect" and offers improved aerodynamic performance above rivals with smaller rim heights. Wind tunnel testing proved this as well.
Third place overall in the tests; the Roval Rapide CLX II performed just somewhat slower than the Reserve. In its design, Roval obviously gave yaw angle performance top priority. Although the front wheel's broader frontal projection increases surface area, at greater yaw angles its rounded projection design and rim height offer exceptional aerodynamic efficiency.
With great balance, the Rapide CLX II is really quick overall. For an all-round aero wheelset, this trade-off makes perfect sense even if it compromises some weight.
Conclusion
The Roval Rapide CLX II doesn’t immediately strike you as an all-rounder, but this elegant wheelset is more versatile than you might expect. Roval delivers outstanding aerodynamic performance, which is particularly evident in wind tunnel tests. On real-world roads, the Roval Rapide CLX II provides good compliance and a relatively smooth riding experience. However, for heavier riders or those with extremely high power outputs, it might feel a bit limiting. Additionally, its higher weight somewhat restricts its usability in certain situations.
Pros
- Innovative rim geometry
- Eye-catching design with white decals
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to competitors
Syncros Capital SL Aero Test
With its Capital SL Aero, which has a complete carbon-integrated structure, Syncros has left a great impression in our aero wheelset test. Less than 1,300g and priced at €4,000, its mix of carbon spokes and deep rims seems to fit all the criteria.
Though it pushes aerodynamic performance even further, apparently breaking through constraints, the integrated design is reminiscent of the Lightweight Obermayer EVO. By using a complete aerodynamic strategy, Syncros has also teamed with Schwalbe to create specific aero tires, therefore establishing a new benchmark. For uniformity in this test, though, we ran Continental tires.
Is it then truly as good as it sounds? To see how the Syncros Capital SL Aero operates in actual surroundings, we tested it.
Carbon Fiber Everywhere: Syncros Capital SL Aero
The weight of the Syncros Capital SL Aero tells it all. Just 1,295g, it is rather similar to the lightweight Obermayer EVO. Syncros looks to have found the ideal mix of aerodynamic performance and stability with a 60mm rim depth and an amazing 33mm width.
Fascinatingly, unlike most designs depending on the front wheel, the Capital SL Aero gets its aerodynamic improvements mostly through the back wheel. Furthermore, most 28mm tires need an internal rim width of 25mm under the new ISO regulations. On hookless rims, they could be too small to be securely installed.
Syncros effortlessly combines DT Swiss components with carbon fiber construction for the hubs to produce a distinctive, ultra-stylish appearance. Under sunlight, the visible carbon weave accentuates the premium sense by glistening wonderfully.
Syncros does not hold back on the price for its flagship wheelset as one would anticipate. The Capital SL Aero rates at a hefty €4,198. Along with a three-year phased crash replacement scheme, Syncros offers the two-year warranty mandated by the EU.
The Definition of Speed: Syncros Capital SL Aero Test
From the first meters of riding the Syncros Capital SL Aero, you can sense the Swiss brand doing some sort of magic! These wheels have remarkably good balance and efficiency, therefore striking the ideal harmony between rigidity and comfort.
Syncros has produced a wheelset without feeling too stiff or rock-hard, even with carbon spokes. That's not to say, when it counts, these wheels lack stiffness. Excellent stiffness and responsiveness from the Capital SL Aero turn every watt of your sprint into forward momentum and offer ultra-precise handling on quick descents.
Its modest weight makes climbing easy and smooth, therefore optimizing the whole ride and ensuring enjoyment. All things considered, the mix of performance and enjoyment is really outstanding. To be honest, this wheelset was flawless—something we cannot claim of the others in our test.
Faster Than the Wind: Syncros Capital SL Aero’s Wind Tunnel Performance
On the road as well as in the lab, Syncros Capital SL Aero presents an all-around outstanding performance. The wind tunnel data support what feels to be the fastest and most aerodynamic wheelset in this test. Here Syncros is the unquestionable aerodynamic champion.
Syncros leads with an average power advantage of 1 watt advantage. With very few extreme angles—rarely seen in real-world riding—where other wheelsets manage to perform somewhat better, it sets the benchmark across almost all yaw angles.
The Syncros Capital SL Aero is absolutely the king of aero wheelsets overall. Its supremacy is so overwhelming that we never would have guessed a wheelset could surpass its rivals to this degree.
Conclusion
Unquestionably one of the best-performing wheelsets available on the market is the Syncros Capital SL Aero. This wheelset was the test's highlight with exact handling, top-notch aerodynamic performance, and a distinctive construction. Its hefty cost sadly can make it unaffordable for certain riders. Still, Syncros has attained the best performance currently available out of other equally costly or even pricier versions. The Syncros Capital SL Aero is obviously the best result of this unmatched mix.
Pros
- Perfectly balanced wheelset, suitable for all race scenarios
- Outstanding aerodynamic performance
- Extremely lightweight considering its aerodynamic capabilities
- Elegant and understated design
Cons
- Warranty and crash replacement program are a bit stingy
Vision Metron 60 SL Disc Test
Unquestionably racing objectives, the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc emphasizes complete aerodynamic optimization and promises balanced and stable handling. Does this, however, mean more weight is sacrificed?
Although Vision wheelsets might not be the most often-used upgrade option available, their standing in the elite racing scene is strong. For some time already, riders from the EF Education-EasyPost World Tour have been utilizing them.
How then does this high-end Metron 60 SL Disc stand against the other wheelsets we tested? We run it through a thorough review to learn.
Full Focus on Aerodynamics: Vision Metron 60 SL Disc Specifications
Vision has gone all-in on aerodynamic optimization with the Metron 60 SL Disc, a decision sometimes at great sacrifice of weight. About 100g over the average, with 1,614g, this is the heaviest wheelset used in the test. Still, its €2,209 price places it at the lower end of the range, so it is the most reasonably priced alternative under test. Vision also includes wheel bags, rim tape, and valves, therefore supplying all you need right out of the box.
With an internal width of 21mm and an external width of 32.5mm, the 60mm rim depth couples wonderfully with contemporary road tires. Added peace of mind and versatility in tire and pressure choices come from the hooked rim design.
Among the loudest freehubs in the test, Vision's in-house power ratchet system hubs feature a creative angled ratchet design, reminiscent of the HUNT SUB 50. Looking wise, the Metron 60 SL Disc chooses a classic black carbon finish with gloss black decals to provide it a strong, premium appeal. Having said that, it could not seem as elegant or sophisticated as rivals such as Syncros or Reserve.
At last, Vision provides a lifetime warranty and a crash replacement program—a pretty generous bundle even with its rather reasonable pricing.
King is speed: Vision Metron 60 SL Test
Designed for professional-level racing, the Vision Metron 60 SL is handled entirely with aerodynamic gains as the first priority. This also implies that long-distance phases were considered during wheel development. Even after riding 200 kilometers, it provides enough compliance to keep you feeling fresh, unlike the stiffer HUNT and CADEX wheels. Still, it's hardly as soft as the Roval Rapide. It helps you keep momentum by responding fast, delivering great speed, and handling sprints.
Here the 60mm deep rims really sparkle. Long straights or sprint finishes would be ideal for the wheels, which spin with amazing smoothness and efficiency once up to speed. Of course, the drawback of such deep rims is obvious on climbs when the additional weight becomes a consideration and acceleration at low speeds isn't the fastest.
Aerodynamic Performance: Results from Wind Towers
Is a 60mm deep rim wheel slow? Though most likely not the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc. Regarding aerodynamic performance and the sail effect, this wheelset feels to be among the best.
Confirming this is wind tunnel testing. Trail the Roval Rapide CLX II by around half a watt, while the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc still came in fourth. It is just somewhat slower. Whereas the Reserve and Roval shine at higher yaw angles, the Metron performs best at moderate yaw degrees (up to about 12.5°).
Your needs will thus determine the appropriate wheelset for you. Your best bet is the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc if you regularly ride into headwinds or do well at modest yaw angles.
Aerodynamic Performance and Wind Tunnel Results
Is a 60mm deep rim wheel slow? Though most likely not the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc. Regarding aerodynamic performance and the sail effect, this wheelset feels to be among the best.
Confirming this is wind tunnel testing. Trail the Roval Rapide CLX II by around half a watt, while the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc still came in fourth. It is just somewhat slower. Whereas the Reserve and Roval shine at higher yaw angles, the Metron performs best at moderate yaw degrees (up to about 12.5°).
Your needs will thus determine the appropriate wheelset for you. Your best bet is the Vision Metron 60 SL Disc if you regularly ride into headwinds or do well at modest yaw angles.
Conclusion
The Vision Metron 60 SL Disc is an excellent performing wheelset that excels in nearly every aspect. It offers great balance and performs well in various riding conditions. Wind tunnel tests confirm that it can compete with the top-tier products, especially excelling at handling lower yaw angles. The only downside is that it struggles a bit when climbing, compared to lighter competitors. Overall, considering the price, this wheelset is highly recommended.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Unique, impressive sound from the hubs
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- The appearance is a bit plain
Conventions in Innovation: Zipp 454 NSW
One of the most unusual wheelsets available on the market, the Zipp 454 NSW pays for that. It is well above the test average at €3,497. What, therefore, for your money, do you get? Obviously, Zipp has concentrated most of its development on the rim, especially with relation to aerodynamics and crosswind stability.
Zipp has thus created a quite unique rim form for this reason. Given that the wheelset is tuned for wider tires, the internal width of 23.5mm and external width of 27.8mm seem very unusual. The 28mm Continental GP 5000 STR tires we used in the test seem a touch too wide compared to the rims, which gives the wheelset some strange appearance. Designed to find the optimal mix of aerodynamic performance and crosswind stability, the SawTooth rim ranges in height from 53 to 58 mm. Zipp refers to the dimples—which he names Hyperfoil and HexFin—as meant to help stabilize the wheelset in crosswinds.
Unlike these high-tech rims, the hubs look relatively simple. The only brand in the test still running spoke nipples is Zipp. We like the freehub's silence, although over time it did get much louder. Through its iconic "Keep Rolling Program," which defines classic American marketing, Zipp also provides a lifetime guarantee and collision replacement.
The Sprinting Star in the Wheelset: Zipp 454 NSW
Although the Zipp 454 NSW wheelset is well-known for its great sprinting capability, our tests revealed different results. Actually, the 454 NSW is really rapid and stiff. During sprints, the wheelset performs quite brilliantly and accelerates rapidly. Its rigidity also offers millimeter-level accuracy and helps handling in turn. But since the bumps are transferred without relief, this stiffness results in a bumpy ride with a quite unpleasant road feel almost devoid of a dampening effect. This is fantastic for racing but not the best for long rides or more laid-back cycling.
On the other hand, its exceptional crosswind performance truly impressed us. Although we cannot tell for sure whether Zipp's proprietary dimples and SawTooth profile have anything to do with it, the wheelset surely performs better in this respect than those of other rivals with comparable rim heights.
Not Just Marketing Talk? Zipp 454 NSW's Performance in the Wind Tunnel
Although the Zipp 454 NSW does well in crosswinds, how does its aerodynamic performance stand? Given the marketing hoopla, our expectations were high—after all, how else could you defend its price and unusual look? When we rode it, though, those expectations fell short entirely. Particularly in practical assessments, Zipp usually came last in the ranks. Its aerodynamic features really started to shine only in the wind tunnel. With an average power of 96.2W, it ranked 9th even then and fell short of typical performance over all yaw angles. Only Mavic and Lightweight had poorer results; given the cost and marketing, this result is somewhat worrying.
Conclusion
With marketing efforts raising the benchmark, the Zipp 454 NSW is a uniquely crafted, costly wheelset. However, its performance falls short of expectations. Although the 454 NSW presents a unique look and excellent sprint performance, its aerodynamic qualities lag behind rivals. For increased crosswind stability, Zipp apparently gave up certain aerodynamic benefits.
Pros
- Unique appearance
- Modern and wide internal width
- Excellent crosswind performance
Cons
- High price and weight
- Unsatisfactory aerodynamic performance
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