Roval Rapide CLX II Disc Carbon Tubeless wheelset

Aero, stable, light, efficient? Yes please!

Since 2020, Rapide CLX wheels have won more races on the World Tour than any other wheels, and Roval just made them faster. 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 wheelset 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, Roval developed a front rim that both reduces drag AND increases stability by 25% in sudden wind gusts compared to previous 50mm rims.

Two rims, one goal
To build the fastest wheels possible for the dynamics encountered in real-world conditions, Roval 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.

Trust 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) 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 they 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
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.

Features

Rim
Rim type: Rapide CLX Cabon Clincher, 700c, Disc Brake, Tubeless
Rim details front: 51mm Depth, 35mm External Width, 21mm Internal Width
Rim details rear: 60mm Depth, 30.7mm External Width, 21mm Internal Width
Compatible with Rachet Exp Sram XD-R body (HWYABL00S5401S)
Real weight (front): 699 g
Real weight (rear): 831 g

Hub
Front hub: Roval AFD (AFD01) Center Lock, 100x12mm
Rear hub: Roval AFD (AFD02R) Center Lock, DT Swiss Ratchet EXP 36t internals (10 degs), 142x12mm, Shim. RD. 11SP HG freehub
Bearings: DT Swiss SINC Ceramic Bearings

Spoke
Spoke front: DT Swiss Aerolite T-head, Radial/One-cross (2:1) 18 count, DS: 257mm, NDS: 252mm
Spoke rear: DT Swiss Aerolite T-head, One-cross/Two-cross (2:1) 24 count, DS: 243mm NDS: 249mm
Nipple type: DT Swiss Hex Prolock Al 2.0x14mm
Spare spokes included: 2 on each wheel.