New Rapide CLX II Team, the wheels that make Evenepoel faster

Specialized has presented the exclusive Rapide CLX II Team. The brand has followed a meticulous design exercise to create a model at the technological forefront that stands out for its aerodynamics, lightness, and reliability. The new Roval wheels are a limited edition of only 1,500 units, weigh 1,390 grams, and have a price of 3,700 euros.

Roval Rapide CLX II Team: the arrival of one of the most acclaimed wheels in the peloton

Professional cycling is a dynamic sport that lives in a constant drip of innovations. An endless race to improve and be the best. Manufacturers compete to respond to riders who demand a level of equipment that meets the requirements. Now, Specialized has refined the already premium Rapide CLX II to star in the latest announcement with the launch of the Rapide CLX II Team.

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The Roval Rapide CLX II Team wheels are made in the image and likeness of World Tour riders, such as Remco Evenepoel or Demi Vollering. The wheelset raises the standards and the brand defines it as the fastest, most reliable, and versatile pair on the planet. Specialized has focused its efforts on four pillars: lightness, aerodynamics, handling, and durability.

In short, the Rapide CLX II Team manage to reduce 130 grams on the scale, slightly improve aerodynamics, double the tubeless impact standards in the industry, and have great tire retention.

The model weighs 1,360 grams -without valves or rim tape- and has renewed the carbon laminates of the rim and the Roval LF hub. Specialized has carried out a painstaking research task that has resulted in a saving of 40 grams per rim and a low-profile hub responsible for weighing 50 grams less.

Lightness is one of the reasons for being of top-level wheels, so work has also been done on logos and final finish to shave off another 130 grams.

Another attribute highlighted by Specialized is aerodynamics: the rim, DT Swiss Aerolite II spokes, and the new hub manage to reduce aerodynamic resistance by 0.5 watts -compared to the Rapide CLX II-. These modest numbers may seem like a symbolic saving, but they are actually part of the marginal gains that surround professional peloton cyclists.

The aerodynamic advantage remains unchanged regardless of tire size; that is, the cyclist will benefit from the same aerodynamic performance whether they mount 30mm tires or a 26mm model.

The Rapide CLX II Team have a hook to, as emphasized by Specialized, provide them with an extra in reliability and versatility when choosing the tire and pressure.

Another factor to consider is the silver hubs, as well as the chrome valves and logo. Far from being mere aesthetic issues, behind this decision lies a significant reason: by eliminating the dust cap and paint, some grams are saved. In addition, the silver reflection indicates that the observer is facing one of Roval's top products.

Roval Rapide CLX II Team

• Rims: Rapide CLX Team Carbon Clincher, Hooked, 700c, Disc Brake, Tubeless
• Hub: Roval Team Light Hub (LF16/LF17R) Center Lock, DT Swiss 180 Ratchet EXP 36t internals (10 degs), 100x12mm & 142x12mm, Shim. RD. 11SP HG freehub
• Bearing Type: DT Swiss SINC Ceramic Bearings
• Spokes: DT Swiss Aerolite II T-head, Front: Radial/One-cross (2:1) 18 count, DS: 258mm, NDS: 267mm, Rear: One-cross/Two-cross (2:1) 24 count, DS: 261mm, NDS: 256mm
• Tire Size: 24mm-38mm, Max Pressure: 24mm-35mm: Tubeless (110psi) Tubed (130psi), 36mm-38mm: Tubeless (60psi) Tubed (60psi)
• Weight: 1,390 grams (including tape and valve)
• Price: 3,700 euros

You can find more information on the Specialized website.