Get ready for a groundbreaking innovation in cycling! DT Swiss has unveiled a game-changer: the ARC 1100 SPLINE 38 CS, a wheelset that pushes the boundaries of performance. But here’s the real shocker: these wheels tip the scales at a mere 1,174 grams without tires, making them an ultra-lightweight dream for any rider.
And that’s not all. DT Swiss has partnered with Continental to offer an aerodynamic tire solution, the Aero 111, specifically designed to complement the wheels. This pairing promises to slice through the air with ease, providing an efficient and speedy ride. But here’s where it gets controversial—the wheels also feature a hooked bead, a traditional design choice that might raise eyebrows in the era of hookless rims. Is this a step back or a smart move to cater to a wider range of riders?
The ARC 1100 SPLINE 38 CS is a significant milestone for DT Swiss, marking their first venture into carbon fiber spokes. These Newmen Vonoas spokes are aerodynamically optimized to reduce drag, and DT Swiss claims they enhance both stiffness and weight savings. The wheelset’s engineering is a marvel, with a refined 180 straight-pull hub and a unique spoke pattern, allowing for an impressive 18 spokes on the front wheel.
DT Swiss’ in-house PURE carbon technology is at the heart of the 38mm rims, boasting continuous fiber strands in the outer layers for enhanced impact resistance. This technology also contributes to the wheels’ lightweight nature, ensuring a responsive ride.
The Wheel Tyre System, or WTS, is a key part of the package, with Continental’s tires seamlessly integrated. The front wheel sports a 26mm Aero 111 tire, engineered for aerodynamic superiority, while the rear wheel grips the road with a 28mm GP 5000 S TR, a tire renowned for its speed and traction. This combination is a rider’s dream, offering the best of both worlds.
With a premium price tag, these wheels are an investment in performance and innovation. But are they worth the cost? Do the benefits of carbon fiber spokes and aerodynamic optimization justify the expense? Share your thoughts in the comments, especially if you’ve had the chance to experience these wheels firsthand. The cycling world is buzzing with curiosity about this bold move by DT Swiss.