25mm Internal Rim Width
The Drive SL 48D CS uses a wide 25mm internal rim width designed to support modern 29–32C road tyres. This wider platform helps reduce the “lightbulb” tyre shape often found when wider tyres are fitted to narrow rims.
Benefits include:
- Better tyre sidewall support
- Improved cornering stability
- Lower tyre pressure capability
- More comfort on rough Australian chip seal
- Better grip during fast descents and bunch rides
48mm Aero Carbon Rim
The 48mm rim depth gives a strong balance of speed and control. It is deep enough to deliver meaningful aerodynamic gains but not so deep that it becomes overly difficult to handle in variable Brisbane and coastal Queensland winds.
Front and Rear Specific Rim Widths
The front rim uses a wider 36mm external profile to prioritise crosswind stability and steering precision, while the rear uses a 34mm external profile to reduce drag and improve airflow efficiency behind the rider.
Carbon Spoke Construction
The 3.2mm SL aero bladed carbon spokes reduce weight while increasing stiffness and response. Compared with traditional steel spokes, the carbon spoke layout gives the wheelset a sharper, more direct feel when sprinting, climbing or accelerating out of corners.
One-Piece Titanium Ratchet Freehub
The one-piece titanium freehub uses a 60T ratchet system with 6-degree engagement. Titanium provides excellent corrosion resistance, durability and impact resistance, while the fast engagement helps deliver immediate power transfer.
Tension-Balanced Hub Design
Elitewheels tunes the spoke tension difference between both sides of the hub to within a narrow range, helping improve wheel stability, long-term reliability and power transfer under dynamic riding loads.
Wind-Tunnel and Laboratory Validation
The Drive SL platform has been developed with aerodynamic testing and more than 20 laboratory validation procedures covering durability, stiffness and long-term performance. The result is a wheelset built for riders who want race-focused speed without compromising everyday usability.
