The SES 2.2 was designed for optimal uphill and downhill performance based on the use of a 25mm tire on the 27mm external rim width. This combination creates optimal air flow and laminar push, driving forward momentum and keeping the air flow as clean as possible over wheels, frame and fork. The 25mm profile means rotational mass is lessened, ideal for climbing, but also for descending where speed and control is crucial, and excess spinning mass is least desirable. The wide contact patch offers more grip and control as well, even in the random cross-winds found in the mountains.

For Enve, making the carbon clincher design tubeless compatible was a huge focus in R&D prior to release. Losing the tube reduces internal friction, and some of the today's tubeless road tires are incredibly light, and can be safely lower pressures, which keeps the tire from bouncing off the pavement (which reduces efficiency), and increasing cornering grip and control. Add the 30% more effective 2nd generation textured brake track and pad system, and Enve has produced a clincher tubeless design that offers incredible all weather braking, with improvements in modulation and power, that can truly rival the performance and benefits of a tubular tire rim. For many practical riders below the top levels, this is the holy grail.

The DT Swiss 240 hubset is ideal for this racer/enthusiast. Laced to the Enve rims using the lightweight, stiff, slightly bladed DT Aerolite spokes, the 2.2 rim can handle impacts and rough roads. This combination, laced radially in the front with 20 spokes, and two-cross in the rear with 24 spokes, truly creates a tunable ride quality and impressive acceleration from rear hub. The DT 240 rear hub is famously easy to service, tool free, and the freehub system is interchangeable for other options. The j-bend Aerolites are widely available and fully truable with the external Enve nipples, making overall care and service simple. DT's contributions are very light, strong, and durable; a perfect match for the Enve SES 2.2 rims.

Enve is known for their stiff and durable high performance aero wheels and rarely are such issues like rider weight limit broached, but with the SES 2.2 please keep in mind that these wheels were designed for climbing and will surely favor a lighter weight rider. Early user feedback is that riders above 175lbs report some brake rub while out of the saddle and under load. Surely the wider rim and longer spokes factor in here, but use your thinking cap and recognize that equipment has its purpose and limits. This is a climbing weapon, for climbers. At 1375 grams for the set as built with the 240 hubs, this is a lightweight wheelset. We ask only that you keep this in mind as you make your purchase decisions. If you are a lightweight climber who can truly benefit from the SES 2.2, you will know it. Other riders will opt for the 3.4's for better all-around performance. Make the best choices based on smart thinking, as Enve has, and if you can exploit the benefits of this tremendous climbing wheelset from Enve, we wholly recommend it, and hope to see you scaling the heights as never before, with an exciting and controlled descent on the backside.