Roval Rapide CLX II Front Wheel | Satin Carbon - Gloss Black

Roval Rapide CLX II Front Wheel | Satin Carbon - Gloss Black

AERO, STABLE, LIGHT, EFFICIENT? YES PLEASE!

Since 2020, Rapide CLX wheels have won more races on the World Tour than any other wheels, and we just made them faster. Meet the new Rapide CLX II. Combining the aerodynamics of a deep-section TT wheel with the light weight of a shallower climbing wheel and mixing in the superior efficiency and sublime handling of a tubeless system—the Rapide CLX II delivers maximum speed for real-world riding. It elevates aerodynamic efficiency and climbing performance, yet remains masterfully stable and confident handling, regardless of wind conditions.

STABILITY EQUALS SPEED

Deep-section front rims are affected adversely by crosswinds. This negatively impacts handling, in turn causing a rider to slow down. By utilizing the first modeling algorithm designed around riders’ real-world reaction times and validated by on-road testing, we developed a front rim that both reduces drag AND increases stability by 25% in sudden wind gusts compared to our previous 50mm rims.

TWO RIMS, ONE GOAL 

To build the fastest wheels possible for the dynamics encountered in real-world conditions, we developed distinctly different shapes for the Rapide CLX II front and rear rims. The result is a wheelset that catches less drag than most 65mm wheelsets and brings a dramatic 25% improvement in stability over 50mm rims in gusts, all while weighing less than many climbing wheels. Mission accomplished.

HOOKED ON TUBELESS

The reduced rolling resistance of a tubeless setup is undeniable, as are the benefits of improved handling and incredible puncture protection. The development of the Rapide CLX II involved the most rigorous and extensive engineering and testing program that we’ve ever undertaken and resulted in a wheelset that almost doubles current industry impact standards while managing to achieve the lightest weight possible. The Rapide CLX II utilizes a hooked rim (allowing for real-world riding pressures up to 110psi, if that’s your thing) for secure tire bead retention and an easier set up and mounting experience than ever before. This is tubeless done right.

KISSING DRAG GOODBYE

The rear wheel is the last thing the wind sees, so we developed that rim shape to minimize drag at the trailing edge of the bike. At 60mm deep with a 30mm external width, the Rapide CLX rear rim reduces turbulence and yields the greatest aerodynamic benefit. Since the rear wheel doesn’t affect steering the way the front does, this deep section doesn’t adversely impact handling. Together, they represent the fastest package for real-world race conditions.

SYSTEMS APPROACH

Our AeroFlange hubs are aerodynamically optimized, with wide bracing angles for increased strength and reduced spoke weight. They also benefit from the reduced weight and increased strength of ceramic SINC bearings and the legendary durability of DT Swiss’ EXP freehub internals. Designing the hub and optimizing the spoke count enables us to lay up rim reinforcement exactly where it’s needed, at the spoke nipples, and then drill the spoke holes at precisely the angle that they will intersect with the rim. Weight is minimized, and strength is optimized.

Link to the manufacturer's website:

https://rovalcomponents.com/products/rapide-clx-ii