Deeper wheels move faster through the air, but that aerodynamic advantage traditionally comes with a handling penalty when crosswinds arrive. Reynolds addresses this tradeoff with their DET2 (Dispersive Effect Termination) rim profile on the AR60, shaping the 60mm deep carbon to manage turbulent airflow across a wide range of wind angles rather than optimizing for a narrow slice of wind tunnel conditions. The design philosophy prioritizes real-world stability, allowing riders to maintain an efficient position when gusts hit rather than fighting the bars or sitting up to regain control. If you've avoided deeper wheels because of crosswind concerns, this is the engineering approach that might change your calculation.

The AR60 uses Reynolds' CR3 carbon layup throughout the rim structure. At 21mm internal width, the tubeless-ready channel supports modern tire profiles while the hooked bead design maintains compatibility with the full range of tubeless tires and allows a wide pressure window. Reynolds optimized the rim shape around 28mm tires, though the width accommodates everything from narrower race rubber to the 32mm casings some riders prefer for long days. The external profile bulges to 31mm at its widest point before tapering, creating the aerodynamic shape that defines the wheel's character in moving air.

Reynolds positions the AR series as their accessible entry point to carbon wheel performance, and the value equation centers on hub and spoke specification rather than rim quality. The AR60 uses the same DET2 rim profile found on the considerably more expensive Blacklabel 60 Pro and Expert models. Where the savings appear is in the rotating hardware: Reynolds/Ringle SRX Road hubs with 100% CNC-machined construction and a 3-pawl freehub providing 10 degrees of engagement handle the duties here rather than the Industry Nine co-developed units on the Blacklabel line. That engagement angle translates to roughly 36 pickup points per revolution, responsive enough for snappy acceleration without the mechanical complexity of denser ratchet systems.... Read More