ENVE

Smart System 3.4 Disc Wheelset - Clincher - 2016

Aerodynamics engineering legend Simon Smart and ENVE Composites set out to create the most efficient wheelsets available. To do so, not only was the manufacturing done directly across from the engineering office, ensuring constant testing and attention to detail, but specific criteria were introduced. First and foremost were durability and a stellar strength-to-weight ratio. From there, aerodynamic stability and minimal drag were introduced to complete the perfect circle. The ENVE Smart System 3.4 Disc Clincher Wheelset is the manifestation of this collaboration. 

The ENVE Smart System 3.4 Disc Clincher is part of the SES series. ENVE used its most sophisticated technology and engineering techniques to create this fast, stiff, and aerodynamic wheelset. The 3.4's aerodynamic design starts with the size differential of the wheels. ENVE accounted for the different behaviors of front and rear wheels, and designed the 3.4s with the front wheel that's 35mm deep and 26mm wide, while the rear wheel is 45mm deep and 24mm wide. The front wheel's shallow profile and wide stance helps decrease drag in windy conditions. On the other hand, the rear wheel's depth decreases drag because stability is less affected at the aft position of the bike. According to ENVE, the 3.4s create a low drag number rivaling many competitors' 50mm- and 60mm-depth wheels.

One of the most noticeable advantages of the 3.4 carbon clincher wheelset is its enhanced stability. The 3.4 demonstrates stellar results under the ENVE Stability Index, a series of tests that incorporates the measurement of transient aerodynamics. The test represents real-world conditions, and ENVE is one of the only non-Formula One manufacturers to conduct it. The 3.4 shape that was developed as a result of these tests ensures predictable airflow attachment over the rim, regardless of crosswind; In a crosswind, the 3.4 experiences a buildup of side-force equal to the changing angle of the wind, and the predictability prevents the need for rider over-correction.

The Smart System 3.4 Disc Clincher is also light, stiff, and strong. The ENVE SES series boasts the highest strength-to-weight ratio on the market, and it's due in part to ENVE's patented process of molding in spoke holes, nipple seats, and valve stem holes. Knowing that carbon fiber gains strength from continuous fibers, ENVE routes the fibers around each hole in a 100% intact design. This design allows a lower weight at the spoke face, and adds overall rigidity to the rim. ENVE also removes the rim-shaping inflatable bladder in the rim — this time-consuming process reduces rim weight and makes for a perfectly tensioned wheel build. Additionally, the strength of the wheel is perfectly suited for disc brakes, making these an ideal cyclocross or gravel road race wheelset. 

The ENVE Smart System 3.4 Disc Wheelset - Clincher is available with a Campagnolo- compatible 11-speed freehub.