Mixed-Depth Aero Concept
The mixed-depth design is the major performance advantage of this wheelset. A shallower front rim improves steering stability and control in windy conditions, while a deeper rear rim improves aerodynamic efficiency where crosswind steering impact is less noticeable.
This makes the wheelset ideal for riders who want extra speed without the nervous front-end feel that can come from running very deep wheels front and rear.
Wide 25mm Internal Rim Width
The Drive SL SS uses a modern 25mm internal rim width designed around wider road tyres. It gives 29–32C tyres better sidewall support, allowing lower pressures without excessive tyre squirm.
Benefits include:
- Better grip through corners
- Improved comfort on rough chip-seal roads
- More stable tyre shape under acceleration
- Better control during descending and braking
- Reduced vibration on long endurance rides
Front and Rear Specific External Rim Profiles
The front rim uses a wider 36mm external profile to improve crosswind stability and steering precision. The rear rim uses a 34mm external width to reduce drag in the disturbed airflow behind the rider.
This front/rear-specific design creates a more balanced wheelset than simply using the same rim front and rear.
Sapim CX-Ray Steel Spokes
The SS version uses Sapim CX-Ray aero steel spokes. These are widely respected for their strength, fatigue resistance and aerodynamic shape.
Compared with carbon spoke wheelsets, the SS version offers:
- Easier spoke replacement
- Better workshop serviceability
- Proven long-term durability
- Strong performance under high spoke tension
- Lower maintenance complexity for regular riders
One-Piece Titanium 60T Ratchet Freehub
The titanium 60T ratchet freehub delivers fast 6-degree engagement, helping the wheels respond quickly when accelerating, sprinting or jumping back onto power after coasting.
Titanium also provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, making it well suited to humid, wet or high-mileage riding conditions.
Tension-Balanced Hub Design
Elitewheels focuses on keeping spoke tension more evenly distributed between both sides of the hub. This supports wheel stability, improves lateral stiffness and helps maintain long-term reliability under hard riding loads.
Hooked Tubeless-Ready Rim Construction
The hooked rim profile gives riders broader tyre compatibility than many hookless-only wheelsets. It also supports tubeless setups for lower rolling resistance, improved comfort and better puncture sealing.
