Swiss Side Technologies AG has introduced new, performance-oriented and aerodynamically optimised gravel wheels. The Gravon Carbon 500 wheels have 50 millimetre high carbon rims and are primarily aimed at those who want to do less travelling and more racing on gravel. However, Swiss Side also emphasises their versatility and stresses that tyres with widths of 30 to 69 millimetres can be used on the rims, with 40 millimetre tyres being recommended.
Gravon Carbon 500 wheels have an already known kink
A closer look reveals that the rims of the Gravon Carbon 500 look very similar to those of the recently launched DT Swiss GRC Dicut 1100 wheels. In the press release for the launch of the new gravel wheels, Swiss Side mentions that the special carbon fibre compound for the rims was developed in collaboration with its partner DT Swiss. Both rims feature the distinctive kink in the rim cross-section at the transition from the parallel flanks to the aerodynamically rounded profile, which is intended to optimise the air flow. According to our own wind tunnel tests, the new wheel generates 8 per cent less air resistance than its predecessor and achieves an increased sailing effect, particularly with lateral airflow. Detailed wind tunnel test results are available on the Swiss Side website.
Only available as hook rim
Similar to DT Swiss, the Gravon Carbon 500 wheels are also only produced with hooked rims. The engineers at DT Swiss argue that they offer greater safety and the ability to run higher tyre pressures. In contrast, hookless rims are usually only suitable for tubeless tyres and are limited to a maximum air pressure of five bar. With an internal rim dimension of 24 millimetres, the Gravon rim from Swiss Side is, as already mentioned, suitable for tyres of different widths and can be fitted with a tube as well as tubeless. The new Gravon Carbon 500 wheelset weighs 1746 grams, is available immediately and costs 1595 euros.
Facts & figures on the Swiss Side Gravon Carbon 500 wheelset
- Rim: Carbon, 50 millimetres high, 24 millimetres inner width
- Hub: Swiss Side 370
- Spokes: DT Aero Comp, stainless steel
- Tyre widths: 30 to 69 millimetres; manufacturer's recommendation: 40 millimetres
- Weights: Vfront wheel: 797 grams, rear wheel: 949 grams, total weight: 1749 grams
- Compatibility: Shimano and Sram, 10-speed and 11-speed;
optional for 10-speed, 11-speed, 12-speed and 13-speed for Shimano, Sram and Campagnolo
Thomas Musch
Publisher
