Roval Launches rapide Sprint, CLX III & CL III Wheels with Deeper Front Rims

Specialized’s Roval has unveiled its latest wheelsets: the Rapide Sprint, Rapide CLX III, and CL III, marking a shift in design beliefs. Unlike previous models such as the Rapide CLX and CLX II, which featured deeper rear rims, these new Roval Rapide wheels now sport a deeper front rim to maximize aerodynamic gains.

The entire Roval Rapide series maintains a consistent 21 mm internal rim width, incorporating a reinforced hooked bead designed to mitigate pinch flats.this design choice reflects Specialized’s belief that latex tubes offer optimal performance for racing applications.

Optimizing Aerodynamics with a New Approach

The core concept behind the updated Rapide lineup is straightforward: prioritize aerodynamics at the front wheel, where most drag occurs. By pairing a deeper front rim with a shallower rear, Roval aims to maintain aerodynamic efficiency while simultaneously reducing weight and enhancing handling and acceleration.

Did You Know? According to a 2023 study by the University of Leicester, aerodynamic drag accounts for up to 90% of the resistance a cyclist faces at speeds above 25 mph [University of Leicester].

Each model in the series caters to a specific type of rider. The Sprint is tailored for high-speed specialists, the CLX III is designed for all-around performance, and the CL III provides similar rim performance at a more accessible price point.

Roval Rapide Sprint: Engineered for Speed

• Weight: 1,395 g (640 g front, 755 g rear)
• Rim Depth: 63 mm front/58 mm rear
• Width: 21 mm internal, 35 mm front/31.3 mm rear external
• Spokes: Carbon composite, 18 front/24 rear
• Hub: DT 180 EXP, SINC ceramic

Roval positions the Rapide CLX Sprint as the ideal choice for sprinting and fast, flat courses. It features a 63 mm-deep front rim and a 58 mm rear rim. This configuration is intended to maximize aerodynamic performance at the front of the bike,where Roval’s testing indicates that 90 percent of aerodynamic drag from wheels originates.

The wheelset incorporates carbon composite spokes co-developed with Arris, which Roval claims are 20 percent stronger than bladed steel alternatives and reduce system weight by nearly 100 grams. The wheels are laced in a 2:1 pattern and built around DT Swiss 180 EXP internals housed in Roval’s low-flange road hubs with ceramic SINC bearings. Despite these enhancements, Specialized states that the wheels are still 215 grams lighter than the previous Rapide CLX II wheels.

According to Roval’s internal testing, the Sprint model produced an 18 cm lead in a 250 m sprint simulation compared to its predecessor, the CLX II. While the real-world impact may vary, it underscores Roval’s focus on optimizing marginal gains for high-output, short-duration efforts.

Roval Rapide CLX III: The All-Around Performer

• Weight: 1,305 g (600 g front, 705 g rear)
• Rim Depth: 51 mm front/48 mm rear
• Width: 21mm internal, 35mm front/31.3mm rear external
• Spokes: Carbon composite, 18 front/24 rear
• Hub: DT 180 EXP, SINC ceramic

The CLX III replaces the CLX II as Roval’s top-tier all-around road racing wheelset.Visually similar to the Sprint,it features slightly shallower rims-51mm up front and 48mm in the rear-and utilizes the same carbon composite spoke technology. The primary distinction is a system weight of just 1,305g, achieved through revised layups and hub weight savings.

A key objective of the CLX III is to maintain aerodynamic performance while reducing rotational mass. roval asserts that it delivers the same drag numbers as the CLX II but cuts 215 grams from the system weight, thanks to improved carbon layup strategies and an updated hub design. The spoke pattern, rim width, and tire optimization remain consistent with the Sprint model.

Aerodynamic shaping is carried over from previous versions, particularly the front wheel, which has been refined over three generations to enhance stability in short-duration gusts. Roval supports this claim with CFD and wind tunnel data,even though real-world results may vary based on rider input and terrain.

Roval Rapide CL III: Performance and Value

Specs at a glance:

• Weight: 1,555 g (716 g front, 839 g rear)
• Rim Depth: 51 mm front/48 mm rear
• Width: 21mm internal, 35mm front/31.3mm rear external
• Spokes: DT Competition Race, 18 front / 24 rear
• Hub: DT 350, stainless bearings

For riders seeking similar geometry and rim performance without the premium hubs and ceramic bearings, the CL III is a logical entry point. It shares the same rim profiles as the CLX III-51mm front, 48mm rear-but substitutes DT 350 hubs, stainless steel bearings, and traditional DT Competition Race double butted spokes.

At 1,555 g, it’s the heaviest of the three wheelsets. The difference stems from components: no ceramic bearings, no composite spokes, and a hub platform that prioritizes serviceability over outright performance.

The CL III retains the FlatStop bead hook and tubeless compatibility of its more expensive counterparts and is also approved for e-road applications up to 350W. While not WorldTour spec, it’s a high-performance option for amateurs or those prioritizing durability and ease of maintenance.

Roval Rapide Wheelsets: Specs and Pricing

The new Roval Rapide wheelsets reflect a premium price point. The price has increased by approximately $700 USD compared to the previous Roval Rapide CLX II wheels, even though they are about $200 less expensive than the limited Roval rapide Team wheels from the previous year.

Pro Tip: Consider your typical riding conditions and priorities (aerodynamics, weight, budget) when selecting the best Roval Rapide wheelset for your needs.

A complete review of the Roval Rapide CLX III wheels is anticipated.

What are your thoughts on the shift towards deeper front rims? how do you think these new wheelsets will perform in real-world racing conditions?

Share this article with your cycling friends and let us know your experiences with aerodynamic wheelsets in the comments below!