Wind Tunnel Tested: Five Aero Wheelsets

By Aaron Hersh
Published Jan 30, 2013
Updated Feb 19, 2013 at 11:30 AM UTC

Enve SES 6.7 Clincher
$3,045, Enve.com

Roll it: For responsiveness. Slowing, starting, cornering, these wheels do it all

Keep looking: If you want the smoothest ride

Braking: The Enve SES 6.7 wheels provide true stopping control, not just braking power. Under full stopping power, they feel similar to the others, but their ability to gradually ratchet up the stopping power instead of slipping and skipping sets the SES 6.7 wheels’ braking performance apart from the other composite wheels. This wheelset still doesn’t measure up to the performance of the aluminum brake track on the Hed Jets, however.

Cornering and acceleration: Testers found these wheels “noticeably stiffer than the Bontrager and Zipp wheels,” and they feel like they “jump back up to speed more aggressively.” The wheels respond to a strong out-of-the-saddle sprint and create the sensation of a definite connection with the road.

Road feel: Although the 6.7s are still far from rough, these wheels transmit more vibration than some of the others tested. The difference is subtle, but their impressive lateral stiffness translates slightly to vertical stiffness as well. The broad tire bed keeps the ride “smoother than [standard] training wheels,” said a tester. Handling in wind was outstanding. Whether contending with steady winds or blustery conditions, the Enve wheels felt “steady and predictable,” reported a tester.

Overall: The most responsive ride—going or slowing. Perfect race set or for big training rides.

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