First look: race-proven performance in an ultralight wheelset with Roval’s just released Alpinist CL

Roval Components has just released a tidy looking climbing wheel — an ultra-light (1365 grams) set that pairs climbing capability with featherweight rims. Already proven at the UCIWorldTour level (see Remco Evenepoel’snotable 50 kilometre breakaway in the Tour de Pologne), they’re designed to offer low rim and spoke mass, easy maintenance and plenty of performance at a price point that’s accessible to most. Samples are in short supply; for now, specs and images below.

Carbon, Clincher (tube-type) / Rim Depth: 33mm / Rim Width: 21mm internal
Hubs: DT Swiss 350, CenterLock, Sealed Cartridge bearings, DT Swiss Star Ratchet internals, 12mm thru-axle compatible, convertible to Quick Release. Shimano HG freehub.
Spoke Count: 24 front, 24 rear
Spokes: DT Swiss Aerolite T-head
Nipples: DT Swiss Alloy Pro Lock Hexagonal
Front Spoke Pattern: Two-cross/Radial (2:1) Rear Spoke Pattern: One-cross/Two-cross (2:1)
Hand-built
Weight: 601g (f) 764 (r) 1365g (set)
MSRP: $1600

Extras: Roval padded wheelbag. No-Fault crash replacement policy. Lifetime warranty. See Rovalcomponents.com for more.

What makes the wheelset interesting, according to Roval, is the Alpinist rim, which has been “optimized to provide minimal weight without sacrificing Roval's signature ride quality.” Features include a carbon layup to minimize weight and optimize strength and durability, Pro-Lock alloy spoke nipples with standard sizing, DT Swiss hubs made from the reliable and easy-to-service Star Ratchet drive system. Hope to have a chance to see it on the road soon.