The concept of what makes an "attacking", all-around wheelset has been flipped with the proven attributes and real world capacity of a rim brake wheelset such as the Roval CL 50. At 1375 grams for set it is more than competitively lightweight, yet carries a 50mm profile 2Bliss Ready full carbon rim that has an internal width of 20.7mm. The max external rim width is 29.4mm, which speaks to it's shaping and overall design. Roval generates wind tunnel tested, CFD driven rim shapes to account for yaw angles and tires, as well as testing with parent company Specialized's pro teams and cyclists to fully understand the variables and requirements of the road that CFD can only model.

Aerodynamically, the CL50 outperforms many deeper-section aero rims without suffering the weight and handling drawbacks associated with deeper wheels. The lightning quick response, adept and stable handling, and great rolling speed make the CL 50 Wheelset a true option for the attacking cyclist who loves to climb and descend, as well as strategically breakaway from the pack, knowing the speed and efficiency needed to maintain a gap. The rim is shaped to manage the air better at the tire rim interface. It appears the design will be aero optimal with 25-28mm tires, though keep in mind wider rims can accentuate width of many tire designs, both clincher and tubeless.

Of course, control and stability also include braking, and the textured brake track of the clincher-tubeless rim design is optimized for wet and dry feel and power. The wider rim is a benefit here again for power and modulation as well as for heat management. The air space with in the rim can be utilized to dissipate heat internally, while the texture adds friction, which when combined with the proper brake pads, generates less heat when subtly applying the brakes. Roval works with SwissStop on pad formulas and the brake track of the CL50 combines with their Black Prince pad. These are included, and also happen to be one of our best selling carbon brake pads. ... Read More