Mid-depth wheels occupy a particular sweet spot in road cycling, deep enough to deliver measurable aerodynamic gains while avoiding the handling compromises that come with taller profiles. Reynolds designed the Blacklabel 46 Pro around this principle, pairing a 46mm carbon rim with their DET2 aerodynamic shaping and co-developed Industry Nine hubs. The result is a wheelset that handles crosswinds with notable composure while maintaining the acceleration characteristics riders expect from a sub-1400 gram build. Rider feedback consistently highlights the stability in gusty conditions, where the rim profile reduces the buffeting that can make deeper wheels feel nervous on exposed roads.

The rim profile uses Reynolds' Dispersive Effect Termination technology, which shapes the carbon to manage airflow at varying yaw angles rather than optimizing for a single wind direction. The cross-section balloons to 31mm at its widest point before tapering back, creating a teardrop shape that helps turbulent air reattach to the rim surface rather than breaking away and creating drag. This profile works particularly well with modern tire widths, and the 21mm internal channel provides a natural fit for 28mm tires that have become standard for road racing and fast group rides. The wider internal measurement allows tires to assume a rounder profile once inflated, improving cornering grip and enabling lower pressures without risking tire roll or burping during hard efforts.

Reynolds' CR6 rim construction divides the layup into six distinct zones, each receiving specific carbon fiber orientations, resin formulations, and epoxy quantities calibrated to the stresses that particular section experiences. The brake track area sees different forces than the spoke bed, which differs again from the tire interface. This zoned approach allows Reynolds to optimize stiffness where power transfer matters while maintaining compliance in areas that affect ride quality. The hooked bead design provides tubeless compatibility across a broad range of tire brands without the fitment concerns that can arise with hookless profiles.... Read More