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As an avid cyclist, you are probably familiar with Roval, a brand that is synonymous with quality and innovation in the world of carbon wheels. Roval has set the bar high with the Rapide CLX II and the Rapide CL II wheel sets, two sets that look very similar at first glance. But don't be fooled, the differences lie in the details. In this blog post we will explain these subtle but important differences and highlight how they affect the price/quality, carbon construction, ceramic bearings, spokes, serviceability, and rolling resistance of both wheel sets.
One of the first things you consider when buying new wheels is the price/quality ratio. Both the Roval Rapide CLX II and Roval Rapide CL II offer impressive performance, but there are significant price differences.
Roval Rapide CLX II : As a top model from Roval, the CLX II offers the ultimate in performance. The materials and technology used make it an exceptional wheel set, and that is reflected in the price.
Roval Rapide CL II: The CL II wheels still offer high-end performance, but at a more affordable price point. They are designed to provide riders with top quality wheels without the cost of the absolute top models.
Both wheel sets use the same advanced carbon rim technology. This means that both the Rapide CLX II and the Rapide CL II benefit from the benefits of lightness, stiffness and aerodynamics that Roval has made famous.
One of the most noticeable differences between these wheel sets lies in the hubs, which play a crucial role in performance and durability.
Roval Rapide CLX II: The CLX II wheels are equipped with DT Swiss 240 EXP hubs, which are known for their precision and efficiency. This reduces rolling resistance, resulting in a smoother and more efficient ride.
Roval Rapide CL II: The CL II wheels use DT Swiss 350 hubs, which also offer reliable performance but at a slightly more affordable price point. They ensure durability and efficient power transfer.
Another significant difference is the use of ceramic bearings in the CLX II wheels.
Roval Rapide CLX II: This wheel set uses ceramic bearings, which are not only lighter, but also have significantly less friction than steel bearings. This translates into significantly lower rolling resistance and improved efficiency.
Roval Rapide CL II: The CL II wheels come with steel bearings, which while very durable, do not provide the low friction of ceramic bearings.
The choice of spokes also affects the performance and durability of wheel sets.
Roval Rapide CLX II: This wheelset is equipped with DT Swiss Aerolite spokes, known for their lightness and aerodynamic properties, which improve overall performance, especially at high speeds.
Roval Rapide CL II: The CL II wheels use DT Swiss Competition spokes, which are distinguished by their durability and versatility, making them suitable for different riding conditions.
Both wheel sets are designed with ease of maintenance in mind. This means that not only do they excel in performance, they are also easy to maintain, meaning they last longer and you spend more time on the road and less time in the workshop.
Conclusion: your choice for perfection
When choosing between the Roval Rapide CLX II and the Roval Rapide CL II, you need to consider your specific needs and budget. Both wheel sets offer excellent performance and high technology, but with differences in price, hubs, bearings and spokes. Regardless of your choice, you're guaranteed a wheel set that will allow you to take your performance to new heights, with a smoother ride and reduced rolling resistance.
Enjoy your bike rides and benefit from the advanced technology and quality that Roval offers with these impressive wheel sets!
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