Easton

EC90 TT Tubular Wheel

Given a regular wheel and a time trial wheel, what makes the latter more suitable for a race against the clock? Conventional wisdom would have us believe that the rim's depth is the tell all, and while this 'logic' rings true throughout the aero-wheel industry, it's only partially correct. Luckily, Easton takes a different, and more effective, view of aerodynamics. The EC90 TT Tubular Wheel has a deep rim-section, sure, but the wind-cutting magic really translates from the hub, outward.

The R4 TTSL hub features one of the narrowest frontal surface areas in the business. This has been achieved by not only reducing the distance between the hub flanges, but by forming the end caps into an aerodynamic wing-shape. Together, these advancements have reduced the hub profile by around 50% in comparison to Easton's standard R4 hub. And though it takes a mad scientist to create, it doesn't take one to understand that a lower profile equates to a lower drag coefficient.

Now, we understand that over the last couple of years, the industry has taken us all on a wider-is-better wheel journey. So, hearing about a narrow hub profile can seem disconcerting. But, Easton lays all fears of stability-loss to rest by mating the hub with an easy-to-handle 56mm rim that uses its Variable Nipple Bed Technology (VNBT). Compared to a 90mm profile, the 56mm depth will grant similar aero advantages while minimizing the effects of crosswind. To maintain a streamlined shape, and accordingly increase laminar flow, the spoke nipples have also been recessed into the rim. To increase rigidity, while shaving grams, VBNT places more material where it's needed at the rim, instead of maintaining a bulky, thick carbon design throughout. The variable construction allows perfect tension and is a catalyst for the wheel's sub-600g weight.

The hub and rim are connected by 16 bladed Sapim spokes, and the wheel rolls on Easton's ceramic sealed cartridge bearings. Not only do the rim, hub, and spokes work in harmony to nearly eliminate aerodynamic drag, but the ceramic bearings greatly reduce mechanical drag. You can also expect a perfect build out of the box. Easton builds every wheel by hand, and the lace/truing process is all performed acoustically by ear.

The Easton EC90 TT Tubular Wheel is available in the color Black and as front wheel only.