DT Swiss still invests in rim-brake wheels

In recent years, disc brake technology on road bikes has opened up new possibilities for development and performance improvements. But the reality shows that many road bikes are still equipped with rim brake calipers. Thus, this rim-brake technology continues to have many followers.

DT Swiss is therefore responding to this demand by redesigning the ARC Aero wheels, but with this braking technology. The latest innovations thus benefit from improvements linked to progress in all areas.

Photos: DT Swiss

The main improvements to the ARC DICUT rim-brake wheels concern the following points:

– Improved aerodynamics thanks to the revised spoke shape.

– New DICUT Aero hub flange.

– Ratchet EXP hub technology – incorporated for the first time in DT Swiss rim-brake wheels.

– Proven carbon rim profiles – aerodynamics validated by Swiss Side.

Spokes

In terms of spokes, the DT Aerolite II and DT Aero Comp II of the ARC Aero wheels are now integrated into the new generation. Up to 28% thinner where it was possible to slim down and up to 39% wider in other specific places to increase strength and stiffness. The new spokes are perfectly aerodynamically aligned with each other.

Hubs

The hub shape has been updated to accommodate the new aerodynamic spokes. This included an adjustment of the hub flanges, designed to implement the patented DT Swiss 2-in-1 nut on the cassette side.

The ARC 1100 DICUT RB wheels are equipped with the 180 DICUT hub with low-friction SINC ceramic bearings.

The 240 DICUT hubs equip the ARC 1400 DICUT RB wheels.

Freehub

The Ratchet EXP freehub system appears here for the 1^st time on rim-brake wheels. This system is incorporated into the hub with precise pawl engagement.

The advantages of Ratchet EXP freehub technology are:

– Easier maintenance and assembly

– Low hub weight due to fewer parts

– Increased hub stiffness thanks to improved geometry, more efficient bearings for longevity and better power transfer

Rim depths

The wheels are available in three rim depths: 48 mm, 62 mm and 80 mm.

The hooked rim construction allows for a wide choice of tires and is also tubeless compatible – like all DT Swiss road wheels since 2016.

Range

• ARC 1100 DICUT 80: the wheelset with the best “sail effect” is chosen by triathletes and racers aiming for Time Trials.

From €2389

1699 g

• ARC 1100 DICUT 62: the most versatile wheelset in the range for fast riding whether in climbs, on the flats, and even in corners.

From €2389

1589 g

• ARC 1100 DICUT 48: the wheelset that embodies lightness and low aerodynamic drag on hilly to mountainous profiles.

From €2389

1519 g

The ARC 1400 DICUT range offers a very similar range but with 240 hubs (instead of 180) equipped with steel bearings (instead of ceramic). The spokes are Aero Comp (instead of Aero Comp/Aerolite).

Weights are 40 to 50 g higher per pair, while prices start at €1957 (instead of €2389).