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Specialized introduces two new high-end Roval wheelsets for disc brake bikes, focusing on weight savings (Alpinist CLX) and aerodynamics (Rapide CLX).
Source: Press Release
With the new Rapide CLX wheels, Specialized claims to offer the fastest all-around wheels in the world, combining the featherlight weight of climbing wheels with the minimal drag of aero wheels. The result: only 1400 g for a wheelset with differentiated rim depth and width between front and rear, for tubed tires and disc brakes.
The Rapide CLX front wheel has a rim depth of 51 mm, compared to 60 mm for the rear wheel. While both wheels have an internal width of 21 mm, ideal for mounting 26 mm tires without creating a bulge and thus aerodynamic disturbance, the front wheel offers a maximum external width of 35 mm, compared to 30.7 mm for the rear wheel. This wider front wheel provides more stability in crosswinds and offers more predictable bike handling.
The new Rapide CLX thus represent an ideal compromise between the CLX 32 and CLX 64. The Rapide CLX are announced as 25% more stable than the CLX 50, which were previously in the American brand’s catalog.
Roval’s lightest wheels
The brand also introduces a new model more specific for climbing, ascents, and accelerations, where wheel dynamism is the priority, with the Alpinist CLX wheels, the lightest wheels ever made by Roval.
Weight has been reduced to the absolute minimum to capitalize on every watt of energy without sacrificing the stiffness, handling, and strength that are crucial for long-term performance and enjoyment. At 1284 g for a pair of tubed disc brake wheels (with a rim depth of 33 mm), the goal seems to have been achieved.
By manufacturing a complete system, not just rims, the brand’s engineers can control all aspects of the wheel: rim design, hub design, spoke specification, and lacing. This eliminates the variables associated with standard components.
| Why are Rapide CLX and Alpinist CLX not Tubeless compatible? By making them tubed-tire specific, the brand was able to create an improved and lighter complete wheel system for riders seeking ultimate performance. To make these wheels Tubeless compatible, additional materials would have been required, and this extra mass would have negated the advantages of Tubeless tires. Roval’s goals for these wheels were clear. The Alpinist CLX is the lightest tubed road wheel the brand has ever made, and the Rapide CLX offers an unparalleled combination of aerodynamics, lightness, and stability. To achieve these uncompromising goals and unmatched performance, Roval opted for tubed wheels. This does not question the potential of Tubeless tires, and when it becomes possible to create a more performant Tubeless wheel/tire system that surpasses a wheel/tubed system, the brand promises to offer it. |
The Roval Rapide CLX and Alpinist CLX are available with white on black or black on black decals, priced at €2398 for the pair (€1399 rear + €999 front).
Contact: specialized.com
| Roval Alpinist CLX Wheels Rims: carbon for tubed tires – Width: 21 mm internal – Rim depth: 33 mm – Spokes: 21 front, 24 rear – Spoke type: DT Swiss Aerolite – Hubs: Roval Aero Flange Disc, sealed cartridge bearings – Weight: 1248 g (562 g front + 686 g rear). |
| Roval Rapide CLX Wheels Rims: carbon for tubed tires – Width: 21 mm internal, 35/30.7 external – Rim depth: 51/60 mm – Spokes: 18 front, 24 rear – Spoke type: DT Swiss Aerolite – Hubs: Roval Aero Flange Disc, sealed cartridge bearings – Weight: 1400 g (649 g front + 751 g rear). |
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