48mm Aero Carbon Rim
The 48mm rim depth gives the Drive SL 48D SS a strong all-round road profile. It is deep enough to provide meaningful aerodynamic gains on flat and rolling roads, while remaining manageable for climbing, descending and variable wind conditions.
25mm Internal Rim Width
The 25mm internal width is designed for modern road tyres in the 29–32C range. This creates a more stable tyre shape, better sidewall support and improved comfort compared with older narrow road rims.
Benefits include:
- Better cornering confidence
- Lower tyre pressure capability
- Improved comfort over rough chip seal
- More stable tyre profile during sprinting and descending
- Stronger match with modern wide carbon road tyres
Front and Rear Specific Rim Profiles
The front rim uses a wider 36mm external profile to prioritise handling and crosswind stability, while the rear rim uses a 34mm external width to improve aerodynamic efficiency behind the rider.
Sapim CX-Ray Steel Spokes
The SS version uses Sapim CX-Ray aero steel spokes rather than carbon spokes. This makes the wheelset more practical for riders who want strong performance with easier long-term servicing and spoke replacement.
Compared with carbon spoke versions, the steel spoke setup may be slightly heavier, but it offers:
- Easier workshop servicing
- Broader spoke availability
- Excellent long-term durability
- Proven performance under high spoke tension
- Strong value for regular high-mileage riders
One-Piece Titanium 60T Ratchet Freehub
The titanium 60T ratchet system provides quick 6-degree engagement for responsive acceleration. Titanium adds corrosion resistance and durability, while the fine ratchet engagement helps the wheel feel sharp when accelerating out of corners, sprinting or responding to attacks.
Tension-Balanced Hub Design
Elitewheels tunes spoke tension difference between both sides of the hub to improve stability, reduce deformation and support long-term wheel reliability.
Laboratory and Aero Validation
The Drive SL platform is developed around durability, stiffness and aero performance testing. It is designed as a genuine race-level wheelset rather than just a cosmetic carbon upgrade.
