Elitewheels has launched updates to its Drive and Marvel carbon wheelsets, with the new wheels promising enhanced aerodynamics and reduced weight over the previous models.
The launch coincides with Elitewheels' spring sale, with savings of 20% on the brand's well-reviewed Drivewheelsets when using the discount code at the end of this article.
Elitewheels have launched three new wheelsets in total: the Marvel II, Drive II, and the Drive G36. The Drive and Marvel are performance road wheelsets while the Drive G36 is a carbon-rimmed gravel wheelset.
The launch follows from Elitewheels' debut earlier this season as a pro cycling sponsor supplying wheels for Team Solution Tech - Vini Fantini. The team secured several wins and podium places in their first race with Elitewheels, the UAE Tour in February.
"These new models not only uphold the rigorous standards of pro teams but also embody a deep understanding of cycling enthusiasts' needs," say Elitewheels.
"Whether in competitive racing or daily rides, Elitewheels delivers outstanding performance to accompany cyclists push their limits and explore endless possibilities."
> Review: Elitewheels Drive G45 CS Gravel Wheels >
Having recently reviewed and been impressed by Elitewheels' premium gravel wheelset, the Drive G45 CS, we're excited by the improvements on offer which include a new ratchet hub and even lower overall weights.
Dig in below for some details.
Drive II: For riders demanding the best
So what's new? Starting with Elitewheels' top-tier Drive series, the new Drive II range sees three rim depths: the Drive 36D II, Drive 50D II and Drive 65D II.
Elitewheels claim to have refined the rim shape for a more aerodynamic profile, while enhancing hub performance and spoke configuration through extensive CFD simulations and wind tunnel testing
Based on data from Silverstone wind tunnel, Elitewheels say that the Drive II saves approximately 5W under identical conditions compared to its predecessor.
The new rims are also wider, to meet the trend towards running wider tyres even at the highest levels of road racing. The Drive II rims now have an external width of 31mm designed for use with 28c and 30c tires, which should improve stability, comfort, and grip while minimising rolling resistance.
A reduced hook design "combines the aerodynamic benefits of hookless rims with the security and versatility of clincher rims, maintaining compatibility with higher tire pressures," say Elitewheels.
The rims are made from Japanese Toray carbon fiber, and the spokes are also carbon: 4.5mm aero bladed carbon spokes reduce weight, and Elitewheels claim are 8% more laterally stiff than steel while still being easily replaceable in the event of an accident.
Further refinements have been carried out to the hubs: the Drive II series features a new Kinetic Ratchet Hub system with a conical ratchet design with 50T ratchets and a stronger spring.
With 7.2° degrees of engagement, the Drive II offers faster braking and power transfer, while a waterproof seal protects against dirt and moisture.
The Drive II wheels are priced $1,299 (£1005). Weights start at 1260g for the 36mm 36D II, with the 65D II coming in at a claimed 1460g.
Check out the Drive II range at www.elite-wheels.com.
Marvel II: Performance meets value
Sitting just below the Drive series, Elitewheels bill the Marvel II range as: "the cost-performance choice for your ride".
The Marvel II is available in three rim depths - Marvel 36D II, Marvel 50D II, and Marvel 65D II. As with the Drive II, the Marvel II series provide a more aerodynamic profile, refining rim shape, brings cutting-edge upgrades that redefine your cycling experience.
The Marvel wheels share many of the same features as the Drive, with Toray carbon rims in a 31mm external width (23mm internal).
The main difference is in the spokes - the Marvel series uses Alpina aero steel spokes rather than carbon - yet Elitewheels claim the Marvel II come in 200g lighter than the previous model.
"This significant weight reduction translates to improved handling, quicker acceleration, and a more responsive ride," say Elitewheels, "giving riders an unparalleled riding experience that balances performance, durability, and cost-efficiency."
The Marvel II wheels are priced $839 (£650) for the 36D and 50D models, and $869 (£674) for the 65D wheelset. Weights start at 1500g for the 36D II set.
Discover the Marvel II lineup at www.elite-wheels.com.
Drive G36 Gravel Wheelset
Gravel cyclists have not been forgotten: the new Drive G36 wheelset brings in the same developments as the Drive and Marvel road wheels such as wider rims and the Kinetic Ratchet Hub, in a tougher package designed to withstand the added rigours of high speed gravel racing.
The Drive G36 features a wider 25mm internal rim width, allowing compatibility with a wide range of 700×30c to 50c tires. This flexibility means riders can seamlessly transition from smooth roads to rugged trails with total confidence.
By revisiting the carbon fibre layup, Elitewheels' engineers have managed to reduce the overall weight while enhancing impact resistance.
The wheels feature the new Kinetic Ratchet Hub with a star ratchet design to significantly improve durability and lifespan, while hybrid Steel TPI bearings further optimise rolling resistance, conserving energy and delivering maximum efficiency on every ride.
The hubs are machined in-house using high-precision Fanuc CNC machines with tolerances of just 0.02mm. In addition, waterproof seals protect the bearings from contamination, keeping your wheels running smoothly even in the rainy/wet conditions that we enjoy so often in the UK and Ireland.
Industry-leading Sapim CX-Ray spokes help bring the weight down to 1325g. A choice of Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, Shimano MSR and Campagnolo N3W freehubs mean that gravel cyclists of all persuasions are provided for.
The new Drive G36 wheels are priced $1189 (£920).
Find out more at www.elite-wheels.com.
Save up to 20% in the Spring Sale
The launch of the new wheels means there's an opportunity to save on outgoing models: Elitewheels have launched a Spring Sale offering a discount of 20% on the original Drive road series wheels and 10% on the Marvel series with prices starting at just $539 (£418)..
Use the code Sportive20 at checkout to apply your discount.
Find out more and shop the sale at www.elite-wheels.com.
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