Introducing the Roval C38: A Comprehensive Overview
The Roval C38 wheels have garnered attention in the cycling community for their blend of performance and price. Built by Specialized’s wheel brand, Roval, these wheels target road cyclists looking for a reliable carbon wheelset without a prohibitive price tag.
Construction and Materials
The Roval C38 wheels are made from a premium carbon composite material. This construction ensures a balance between weight and strength, providing a responsive ride. The carbon fiber layup is designed to manage various stresses and strains encountered during rides. This results in a durable and resilient wheelset.
The rim depth of the C38 is, as the name suggests, 38mm. This depth strikes a balance allowing for aerodynamic benefits without being overly affected by crosswinds. The width of the rim is also optimized for modern tire standards, providing better tire support and improved aerodynamics.
Weight and Performance
The weight of a wheelset is a crucial factor for performance. The Roval C38 weighs approximately 1,560 grams per set. This places them in a competitive range, particularly for a carbon wheelset at this price point. The lightweight nature of the C38s makes them agile, helping in quick accelerations and climbs.
The C38s are tubeless-ready. This feature is increasingly sought after by cyclists for the benefits of running lower tire pressures, reduced puncture risk, and improved overall ride comfort.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics play a significant role in the design of the Roval C38. The 38mm depth is a sweet spot, offering aerodynamic efficiency without becoming cumbersome in crosswinds. The profile of the rim is optimized to reduce drag, making them an excellent choice for various conditions, including flat terrains and rolling hills.
The width of the rims is designed to work well with tires ranging from 25mm to 28mm. Wider tires improve comfort and reduce rolling resistance. The broader rim also ensures a smoother transition between the tire and the rim, further enhancing aerodynamic performance.
Hubs and Spokes
The hubs used in the Roval C38 wheelset are DT Swiss 350 internals. These hubs are known for their reliability and smooth performance. The Star Ratchet system ensures quick engagement, which is particularly beneficial during sprints and steep climbs. The freehub is compatible with Shimano and SRAM, accommodating various drivetrain setups.
The spokes are DT Swiss Competition Race spokes. They are double-butted, offering a mix of stiffness and comfort. The spoke count is 21 at the front and 24 at the rear, providing a balance of weight savings and strength. These spokes are laced in a two-cross pattern, enhancing lateral stiffness and power transfer.
Braking Performance
The Roval C38 wheels are available in both rim brake and disc brake versions. The rim brake version features a brake track with a textured surface to improve braking performance in wet conditions. This design ensures consistency and reliability during various weather conditions.
The disc brake version uses Centerlock hubs which are compatible with most disc brake systems. Disc brakes provide better modulation and stopping power, particularly in wet or technical terrains.
Maintenance and Durability
Like any high-quality wheelset, maintenance is key to ensuring longevity. The DT Swiss hubs require minimal maintenance. However, checking the bearings periodically and ensuring proper spoke tension can prolong the lifespan of the wheels. The carbon rims are robust but should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage, especially after rough rides or crashes.
Roval offers a lifetime warranty on the C38 rims for the original owner. This warranty is a testament to their confidence in the durability and quality of these wheels.
Price and Value
The Roval C38 wheelset is priced competitively. Given their construction, performance characteristics, and the inclusion of premium components like DT Swiss hubs, they offer excellent value for money. Cyclists looking to upgrade from alloy wheels will find the C38s to be a significant performance improvement.
Compatibility and Installation
The Roval C38 is compatible with a range of modern road bikes. They come with both the rim brake and disc brake options, making them versatile for various bike setups. The tubeless-ready feature makes the installation straightforward. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and maximizes the benefits of these wheels.
On the Road Experience
Cyclists have reported noticeable improvements in ride quality after switching to the Roval C38. The wheels provide a stiffer, more responsive feel compared to standard aluminum rims. The reduced weight aids in climbing and acceleration, while the aerodynamic profile helps in maintaining higher speeds on flat terrains.
The C38s also demonstrate excellent handling characteristics. The balance of the 38mm depth with a wide rim profile provides stability in crosswinds, enhancing rider confidence. The tubeless compatibility adds to the comfort factor, allowing for the use of lower tire pressures without the risk of pinch flats.
Rider Feedback and Reviews
Riders have praised the Roval C38 wheelset for their performance and reliability. Many appreciate the balance between being lightweight and providing a robust ride. The aerodynamic benefits are also frequently highlighted, especially for those who participate in races or long endurance rides.
The ease of setup for tubeless tires is another positive point, with many noting the improvement in ride quality and puncture resistance. The overall sentiment is that the Roval C38 offers a top-tier performance at a mid-tier price, making them a popular choice among serious road cyclists.
Conclusion
The Roval C38 from Specialized offers an excellent value proposition for road cyclists. With their smart construction, optimal balance of weight and aerodynamics, and high-quality components, they deliver performance typically only seen in higher-priced wheelsets. Whether upgrading from aluminum rims or looking for a dedicated race wheelset, the Roval C38 makes a compelling case.
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