Specialized Roval Terra Aero & CLX III Gravel Wheelsets: Lighter, Faster & More Compliant

Specialized has unveiled two new gravel wheelsets under its Roval brand, the Terra Aero CLX and the Terra CLX III, representing what the company calls a significant leap forward in gravel wheel technology. The releases cater to different riding styles and priorities, offering options for both aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight performance.

The Roval Terra Aero CLX is designed for speed, featuring a unique “chopped” 50mm deep rim profile. This design, according to Specialized, achieves aerodynamic performance comparable to a 70mm deep road wheel while maintaining the stability and manageability expected of a gravel-specific wheelset. The rim boasts a 27mm internal width and a 38.5mm external width, optimized for tires between 35 and 60mm. At 1,340g (including tape and tubeless valves), the Aero CLX aims to balance aerodynamics with weight. Specialized claims a 5.84-watt improvement over the Terra CLX II when paired with a 45mm tire at 40 kph.

In contrast, the Roval Terra CLX III prioritizes lightweight performance and compliance for challenging terrain. Weighing in at a remarkably light 1,079g with tape and valves, these wheels are positioned as some of the lightest competitive gravel wheelsets available. They feature a shallower 27mm rim profile, a 27mm internal width, and a 38mm external width. Specialized states the CLX III offers a 21.52% improvement in lateral compliance, enhancing comfort and control on rough surfaces.

Both wheelsets share several key features, including Roval composite spokes and compatibility with tubeless tires. The spokes utilize a proprietary thermoplastic material with titanium end pieces, contributing to both weight savings and increased strength. Both are designed to accommodate tires ranging from 35 to 60mm in width.

The development of the Terra Aero CLX involved extensive modeling, with the Roval team evaluating over 300 different rim shapes. The “chopped” airfoil design emerged as a solution to optimize aerodynamics for gravel tires, which often operate at lower speeds and in more turbulent wind conditions than road tires. Specialized emphasized the importance of stability and predictability when designing the rim shape, recognizing the unique demands of gravel racing and riding.

The Terra Aero CLX incorporates 5.38mm hooked rim beads, designed to enhance flat protection and provide greater tire compatibility. The Terra CLX III features 4.86mm hooked bead hooks, also aimed at maximizing tire choice and pressure flexibility. This focus on flat protection reflects the challenging conditions often encountered in gravel riding.

The new wheelsets also incorporate DT Swiss 180 EXP internals with 36T engagement, and DT Sinc Ceramic Bearings. The Terra Aero CLX is compatible with SRAM XD-R cassettes.

Specialized highlighted the importance of a system approach, noting that the wheels are designed to work optimally with Specialized gravel tires, as used by their professional race team.

The Roval Terra Aero CLX is priced at $3,400 USD, while the Roval Terra CLX III is available for $3,200 USD. Both wheelsets are available now.

The release of these two wheelsets demonstrates Roval’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of gravel wheel technology. The Terra Aero CLX caters to racers seeking aerodynamic advantages, while the Terra CLX III appeals to riders prioritizing lightweight performance and comfort. The differing approaches reflect the diverse demands of the gravel cycling discipline, offering riders options tailored to their specific needs and preferences.