.
.
.
#DTSwissARC #AeroRoadWheels #CyclingInnovation #CarbonWheels #RoadBikeTech #FasterWheels #TubelessReady #BikePerformance #AeroDesign #DT1100 #DT1400 #CyclingUpgrade #RoadBiking #WheelTireSystem #CyclingCommunity
Source link
DT Swiss has unveiled the third generation of its ARC aero road bike wheels, showcasing significant improvements in aerodynamics, weight reduction, and compatibility with modern road tires. The updated ARC series features a complete aerodynamic redesign, including deeper rim profiles, increased internal widths, and a return to a sharper V-shaped rim design. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new and why it matters:
Key Updates & Design Innovations
-
Sharper V-Shaped Rim Profiles:
- DT Swiss has reintroduced a sharp V-shaped rim design, a departure from the trend of more rounded or U-shaped profiles that dominated the last decade.
- The sharp nose of the rim helps cut through the air more efficiently, counteracting the increased frontal area caused by wider modern tires.
- Despite the sharper profile, the rims maintain a curved taper toward the tire, ensuring stability in crosswinds and a smoother ride in gusty conditions.
-
Increased Rim Depths and Widths:
- The new ARC wheels are available in three rim depths: 55mm, 65mm, and 85mm (up from 50mm, 62mm, and 80mm in the previous generation).
- Internal rim width has been increased to 22mm (up from 20mm), accommodating wider tires for improved rolling resistance, grip, and comfort.
- External widths vary by depth: 55x28mm, 65x29mm, and 85x32mm.
-
Optimized Tubeless Performance:
- The new wheels feature a stepped rim bed and tire seat for better tubeless tire sealing.
- All wheels come pre-taped for tubeless setup, including alloy tubeless valves, valve guards, aero valve caps, and wheel bags.
-
Aerodynamic Enhancements:
- The design leverages DT Swiss’s expertise in aerodynamics, maintaining a positive “sailing effect” at extreme yaw angles, where drag decreases or even provides a forward push.
- The wheels are optimized for use with the DT + Continental Aero 111 dimpled tire, which maximizes aerodynamic efficiency as part of a Wheel Tire System (WTS).
-
Weight Reduction:
- Despite the increased depths and widths, the new ARC wheels are lighter than their predecessors.
- For example, the 1100 series 85mm wheelset now weighs 1669g, a reduction of 86g compared to the previous 80mm model.
-
Reduced Spoke Count:
- The front wheels now feature a lower spoke count (20 spokes, down from 24), improving aerodynamics without compromising strength.
-
Hub and Spoke Upgrades:
- Both the 1100 and 1400 series use aerodynamic Dicut alloy hubs with straight-pull T-head spokes.
- The 1100 series features Aerolite spokes and SINC ceramic bearings, while the 1400 series uses AeroComp spokes and stainless steel bearings.
- All wheels include 36T Ratchet EXP freehub internals and come with SRAM XDR and Shimano HG freehubs standard (Campagnolo N3W and Shimano Microspline available separately).
Performance and Weight Claims
-
ARC 1100 Series:
- 55mm: 1471g (+6g vs. previous 50mm model)
- 65mm: 1511g (-158g vs. previous 62mm model)
- 85mm: 1669g (-86g vs. previous 80mm model)
-
ARC 1400 Series:
- 55mm: 1549g (+6g vs. previous 50mm model)
- 65mm: 1619g (-125g vs. previous 62mm model)
- 85mm: 1772g (-56g vs. previous 80mm model)
Pricing and Availability
- The new DT Swiss ARC wheels are available now.
- 1100 Series: $3145 / 2700€ per wheelset
- 1400 Series: $2505 / 2150€ per wheelset
- Individual rear wheels for triathlon or time trials are also available, priced at $2796 / 2400€.
- For those seeking the ultimate aerodynamic setup, the WTS Wheel Tire System adds $116 / 100€, including a DT/SwissSide/Continental Aero 111 29mm front tire, a Continental GP5000 STR 30mm rear tire, and two Conti TPU tubes.
Why It Matters
The latest DT Swiss ARC wheels are a response to the evolving needs of road cyclists, who are increasingly adopting wider tires for their performance and comfort benefits. By combining a sharper V-shaped design with deeper and wider rims, DT Swiss has created a wheelset that not only meets but exceeds the demands of modern road racing. The improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, and enhanced tubeless performance make these wheels a compelling choice for riders looking to gain a competitive edge.
Whether you’re a competitive racer or a performance-focused enthusiast, the new DT Swiss ARC wheels promise to deliver faster speeds, better stability, and a more enjoyable ride. With the option to customize your setup with the Wheel Tire System, these wheels represent the pinnacle of aero road technology in 2024.
For more details, visit DTSwiss.com.
