Fresh (Fast) Wheels: Roval Rapide CL II

House wheel brands are delivering in ways that many thought they couldn’t. With Roval, Cadex and Bontrager wheels rolling and winning at the highest levels of the sport, that trickle-down technology is bound to make it to us. Now, the ultra-optimized Roval Rapide CLX II is being offered at a lower price point, but with almost all the same features. Introducing the Roval Rapide CL II, with the same rim shapes, profiles and carbon layup as the more expensive CLX models — all wrapped around DT Swiss 350 hubs.

One of the hallmark features of the Rapide CL II is the varying depth and profile shapes of the front and rear rims. The front rim is 51mm deep while the rear is 60mm. The shapes are optimized for each placement to optimize aerodynamics and, most importantly, stability. You’ll notice that the outer rim width is 35mm on the front and 30mm in the rear. This combination allows wider front tires to remain more aerodynamic as the bike’s leading edge, while also combating those blustery crosswinds.

A few years back, I tested and loved the Roval CL50 Wheelset and the new Rapide CL II is said to be 25% more stable than that rim shape. I had no problems with the stability of the CL50, so these new wheels will be rock solid on those mountainous descents.