Upgrade your wheels for 2019

Without having to buy a new bike, you can get faster by upgrading your wheels

Triathlon Magazine December 3, 2018

When it comes to gear and toys, nothing seems to get a triathlete more excited than the thought of adding a new gadget to their biking arsenal. An easy way to lower your bike split in 2019, is treating yourself to a new pair of wheels. Here are three wheelsets that are sure to save you a few watts and help you slice through the wind.

Shimano Dura-Ace C60 – $2,230, CLINCHER

Shimano Dura-Ace C60 - $2,230, CLINCHER

The 60-mm deep D2 rims used in this speedy wheelset were developed through working with speedy cyclists and time in the wind tunnel. All that input resulted in this super-fast wheel that sits in between the popular 40- and 80-mm rims you see so often in T2, which means you get the benefits of the aerodynamics without as much buffeting from crosswinds. A wide rim and beefed up hub ensures you’ll get outstanding power transfer, too.

Enve SES 7.8 Disc – FROM $3,090, TUBULAR; FROM $3,350, TUBELESS CLINCHER

With so many of the super-bikes on the market now using disc brakes, Enve’s SES 7.8 Disc wheelset offers another great option to pair with your speedy ride. The carbon-fibre rims provide outstanding aerodynamics to cut through the air with ease, while also remaining extremely stiff laterally, so you get the most out of every pedal stroke.

Mavic Comete Pro Carbon SL UST Disc – $2,499

Mavic Comete Pro Carbon SL UST Disc - $2,499

Offering outstanding rolling efficiency (15 per cent better than regular tubed tires, according to Mavic’s tests), these 24-spoke wheels from Mavic are much easier to install than other tubeless wheels. The 64-mm airfoil rim reduces drag and won’t get buffeted around in crosswinds, while the 26-mm width provides a nice combination of aerodynamics, stability and tire integration. Add in the disc brakes, and you get precise braking that works well even in wet conditions.