Reynolds

Element C Carbon Disc Wheel - Clincher

Your time trial is going to happen regardless of if there's a crosswind or not. So, what choice do you have but to hit the tarmac at the fastest speeds possible? Enter the world of the disc wheel, or if you're looking for more than marginal gains, the Reynolds Element C Carbon Clincher Disc Wheel, specifically.

For the construction, Reynolds built the Element C solely from its proprietary, high modulus carbon fiber. And not only does this keep the overall weight hovering around 1335 grams, but it also aids in the wheel's primary objective of aerodynamics. It's been designed with an incredibly low aerodynamic profile. In fact, the wheel is seemingly perfectly flat, squaring off towards the rim bed. This creates a seamless interface between the tire and the wheel, nearly eliminating the balloon effect at the leading edge of the wheel. Additionally, the overall wheel shape doesn't disrupt the smooth, laminar airflow passing over the frame, further minimizing drag and increasing stability.

You'll also find that the Element's carbon composition dampens road vibration, and ultimately, minimizes the all-too-common harsh effects of disc wheels. Additionally, the layup provides heightened levels of torsional rigidity, which aids in quick accelerations out of the corners and in the first couple hundred meters of climbs.

For easier maintance, Reynolds incorporated its valve stem cup design. This hollowed-out feature allows the use of a standard pump head without the need for an adapter. You'll also find that the Element C addresses an all-too-common ailment to carbon clinchers -- poor braking. The solution was found through the development of what Reynolds calls its Crynogenic Glass Transition Braking System (CTg). Essentially, this is a patented braking design that required both a redesign of the brake track laminate and pads. Accordingly, CTg uses a temperature-conductive laminate at the brake track's transition points that withstands higher levels of heat than typical carbon laminates (around a 100 degree dispersion). And when paired with Reynolds' polymer Cryo Blue brake pads, braking becomes more predictable and requires less finicky feathering on fast descents.

The Reynolds Element C Carbon Clincher Disc Wheel is only available as a rear wheel and in the color Black with White logos. Please note that this is a clincher wheel, and that it's being offered with either a Campagnolo or Shimano freehub compatibility. Also, the Shimano freehub option is compatible with Shimano 11-speed cassettes.

This wheel has been designed for use with the included pair of Reynolds Cryo-Blue brake pads. Use of any other brake pad will effectively void your warranty.