Weight will always be a top priority for cross-country bikes. When chasing podium places or personal bests, every single gram counts. Rotating mass is the enemy of speed, as it dulls handling and devours precious watts. At just 1240 grams per set, the new "Control SL Team Issue" is one of the lightest mountain bike wheelsets on the market. It is even lighter than some road wheelsets.

Longevity counts

The lightest wheels aren't worth much if they can't get you to the finish line or if they let you down miles from the nearest road. Through rigorous prototype development and a series of sophisticated testing protocols - both in the lab and off-road - the new Control offers a longevity and durability that is second to none.

The riding characteristics are tailored to the requirements of modern cross-country and trail riders. The shape of the new Control rim has been carefully designed and engineered to be laterally stiff for precise steering, yet vertically compliant enough to absorb bumps on the trail. These features ensure precise handling without transmitting harsh impacts to the rider, ultimately reducing fatigue and improving lap times.

Puncture protection is something most riders don't talk about. But nowadays, the biggest time loss in cross-country racing is due to flat tires. So when it comes to getting from point A to point B as fast as humanly possible, it makes sense to do something to reduce the risk of punctures. That's why Roval have stopped accepting the status quo and decided to do something about punctures. The new rim profile is now four millimeters wide on the sidewall. This profile and the specially designed shape mean that it takes 22 percent more force to provoke a puncture. Racers can therefore ride harder on lighter tires and at lower tire pressure without risking a puncture.

Details

• Rim type: Clincher: Hookless carbon, 2Bliss ready
• Rim material: carbon
• Rim width: 29 mm inner width
• Spoke pattern: Double crossed
• Spoke type: DT Swiss Aerolite Straightpull T-head 294 mm
• Spoke nipple: DT Swiss Pro Lock aluminum spoke nipple
• Front hub: Roval with DT Swiss internals, 6-hole rotor, sealed ceramic bearings
• Rear wheel hub: CNC-milled Roval aluminum body with DT Swiss internals (54t gearing), sealed ceramic bearings
• Assembly: by hand
• Weight: 1248 grams (with rim tape and tubeless valves)

www.rovalcomponents.com/products/control-sl-team-ltd