On the heels of their freakishly light engineering marvel of a wheelset, dubbed the Control SL – which we tested here , Roval just announced a far more affordable follow up that is slightly beefier but still extremely lightweight. We just received a set for long term testing with just enough time for some photos and a quick run down on the finer points. Read on for the full scoop …
Many of Roval’s wheel – both past and present – feature DT Swiss hub parts. The Control Carbons feature the all new EXP version of the DT Swiss 350 hubs both front and rear.
Although this wheelset retails for $ 1000 + less, it is centered around the same exact rim as found on the Control SL wheelset. Impressive.
This angle shows the wide 4mm “Flat Top” bead hooks that not only make the rims substantially better equipped to managed vertical impacts, but they also reduce the likelihood of a pinch flat by dispersing rock strikes over a wider area of the rim – thus making it harder to cut through the tire.
There is an offset profile both front and rear to reduce dish and improve bracing angles, which leads to a more robust wheel.
Total weight with valves and tape.
Six bolt only for the front hub.
Speaking of the front hub, although not pictured here, Roval includes end caps which pop on to the DT Swiss hub to convert it to work with RockShox Torque Cap fitment, should you choose.
Straight pull spokes all the way around and 28 hole front and rear, which beefs things up a bit compared to the SL model’s 24 spokes.
The Control Carbons ship with a SRAM XD driver as the only option. Should you choose to run HG or Microspline, you can grab an aftermarket driver from DT Swiss directly. The engagement mechanism is the updated 36T EXP star ratchet system, which can be partially disassembled, cleaned and lubed without tools.
Another angle of the Flat Top bead hook as well as the ultralight rim tape, which is included and preinstalled.
We just received these wheels but they look quite nice and seem very promising. On paper that price, weight and a lifetime warranty sure looks tough to beat. Time will tell and we’ll circle back with a full review in the coming months. Stay tuned …
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