€ 2,699.80 | Manufacturer’s website
DT Swiss are rolling out the third generation of their ARC carbon wheelset – and not a moment too soon. It’s been nearly five years since the last version launched, and in the meantime, tire widths and rim geometries have moved on significantly. A growing number of manufacturers are opting for wider rim profiles, designed to work optimally with 28 to 30 mm tires. Internal widths of 23, 24 or even 25 mm on road bike rims? No longer a rarity. Now, DT Swiss are catching up with the completely revamped ARC 1100 version, which is claimed to be lighter and more aerodynamic than ever.
To make that happen, the Swiss wheel expert once again teamed up with the aerodynamic wizards at Swiss Side. The result is an all-new rim profile, engineered specifically for the front wheel and tailored to work in harmony with the purpose-built Continental AERO 111 tire for maximum efficiency.
Visually, the new ARC range borrows design cues from DT Swiss’ GRC gravel wheels. The rim narrows towards the tire with a distinctive step in the lower third. A bold “A” on the rim marks the model series, while glossy decals and silver accents on the hub add a touch of premium vibe.
In our big carbon wheel comparison test at the time, DT Swiss were represented by the freshly updated ERC 1100 Endurance model – a long-distance specialist designed with comfort and balanced handling in mind. A slightly surprising choice, given that the focus of that test was squarely on performance.
Now, with the third generation of the ARC series, DT Swiss are stepping fully back into the limelight. Their goal? To reclaim the top spot in the aero segment. And they’re doing so with a keen eye on an emerging debate: the UCI is considering a ban on rim depths over 65 mm in road racing. DT Swiss’ move from 62 to 65 mm for the mid-range option feels like a calculated decision, pushing right up against that limit. The new ARC 85 is likely to disappear from the WorldTour peloton as a result – and will probably find its future home with triathletes and time trial specialists instead.
For this test, we had what’s arguably the most interesting version on hand: the 55 mm depth, which DT Swiss call the sweet spot for riders who want aero gains without sacrificing crosswind stability and handling for everyday applications. But does the new model deliver just on paper or also on the road?
A closer look at the new DT Swiss ARC 1100
The third generation of the DT Swiss ARC 1100 DICUT is wider, deeper and more modern than even. But anyone comparing it directly to rival offerings will quickly notice: at 22 mm internal width, DT Swiss are taking a relatively conservative approach. While other brands are already pushing 23 or even 25 mm, the Swiss team sticks to their own aero concept – and for good reason, according to DT Swiss.
According to the manufacturer, the new internal width represents a carefully balanced compromise between aerodynamics, tire support and compatibility with modern 28 to 30 mm tires – specifically the Continental AERO 111 in 26 or 29 mm widths. Developed in collaboration with Swiss Side and DT Swiss, the AERO 111 is based on the popular GP5000 S TR model and was developed to work seamlessly with the new rim profile.
The thinking behind wider rims doesn’t come out of nowhere: a broader rim provides better lateral support for the tire, which translates to more stability through corners. The casing is supported more securely, minimising deformation and enhancing ride precision.. At the same time, it allows you to run lower air pressures, which not only boosts comfort but also improves grip and puncture protection. Sounds good – and it is, provided the aerodynamics aren’t compromised.
That’s exactly where the new V-shaped rim profile comes in. Instead of the classic U-shape used previously, the rim now tapers more sharply towards the hub. According to DT Swiss, this reduces the frontal area and guides airflow more efficiently, especially in crosswinds.
The new ARC rims haven’t just grown wider – they’ve also gone deeper: 55 instead of 50 mm, 65 instead of 62 mm, and 85 instead of 80 mm. While most brands love to claim “less weight with more performance,” DT Swiss allow themselves a refreshingly honest exception. The 55 mm version is actually said to be 6 grams heavier than its predecessor – though that comes with an extra 5 mm of rim depth. As far as we’re concerned, that’s perfectly reasonable.
On our scales, the ARC 1100 55 mm marks 1,483 g, including tubeless rim tape and freehub body. For comparison’s sake: the ERC 1100 with a 45 mm depth weighs just a touch less at 1,465 g.
DT Swiss ARC 1100 DICUT DB 55
€ 2,699.80
Weight: 1,483 g (incl. tubeless rim tape & freehub body)
Rim depth: 55 mm (front and rear)
Hub: DT Swiss 180 DICUT
Internal width: 22 mm
External width: 28.5 mm
Spoke count: 20 front / 24 rear (DT aerolite)
Maximum system weight: 110 kg
Intended use: All-round race
Compatibility: Tubeless & tube-type (hooked rim)
A key element of the new concept is the Wheel Tire System (WTS) – a carefully tuned pairing of rim and tire, available pre-installed for an additional € 100. The front comes fitted with a 29 mm Continental AERO 111 tire, while the rear is paired with a 30 mm GP5000 S TR. The AERO 111 features a unique tread pattern that DT Swiss refer to as “vortex chambers,” designed to manipulate airflow and direct it cleanly towards the rim – straight out of the Formula 1 playbook. In theory, this should reduce flow separation and improve stability in crosswinds. Steering input is meant to feel more linear, more predictable and less twitchy – at least in theory.
How much of that effect you’ll actually feel on the road depends – as always – on wind conditions, riding position and speed. What’s clear, though, is that the system feels well thought-out and consistently executed.
Another subtle aero upgrade lies in the spoke count: the front wheel now uses 20 DT Aerolite spokes instead of 24. This doesn’t just save weight, but according to DT Swiss, also reduces aerodynamic drag. Specifically, we’re talking about “rotational drag” – the resistance caused by rotating parts moving through the air. Fewer spokes mean fewer elements cutting into the wind, so it makes perfect sense that this is another area where DT Swiss have found room for aero fine-tuning.
DT Swiss ARC 1100 first ride review
On paper, the new ARC 1100 DICUT DB 55 is positioned as an aero all-rounder – but how does the 55 mm deep carbon wheelset perform in the real world? Our first ride shows: acceleration is clearly efficient, though not explosive. The high stiffness delivers solid drive, especially when sprinting out of the saddle or powering through mid-ride efforts, and still delivers that familiar DT Swiss ride feel. That said, these wheels definitely lean towards the stiffer side and haven’t lost any of their rigidity compared to the previous generation.
At the same time, the relatively modest weight (by aero standards) is noticeable on the road. If you’re chasing KOMs on steep alpine climbs, there are lighter options out there. But as a balance between aerodynamic performance and race-ready handling, this setup hits the mark.
Crosswind sensitivity? Noticeable, but never sketchy. With steady side winds, the wheels actually seem to settle into the airflow – the sail effect is clearly present. On straight, open roads, the ARC 1100 track as if on rails, offering a reassuring sense of stability and confidence at high speed.
Handling is precise, close to sporty in its responsiveness – there’s no hint of flex here. The wheels deliver clear, direct feedback and remain composed even through quick changes of direction. If you’re after a smooth, stable ride that still feels sharp and connected, these wheels won’t disappoint.
Comfort isn’t the top priority here. The rims offer minimal compliance, with most of the cushioning coming from the wide Continental tyres used in the WTS setup — which can be run at reasonably low pressures. For long days in the saddle, the setup is perfectly adequate, particularly if your main focus is on speed.
Tuning tip: if you’re after more compliance, try experimenting with tIre pressures when running 30 mm tires.
Who should take a closer look at the DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheelset?
The new ARC 1100 DICUT DB 55 is aimed at riders looking for a true all-round wheelset that can handle a bit of everything – from fast flat stages and epic solos to rolling terrain with constant pace changes. It really comes into its own with varying wind conditions: handling is always composed and predictable, and paired with the Continental AERO 111 tires, the setup delivers a smooth, composed ride with calm, confident steering.
That said, at 1,483 g, this isn’t a featherweight. If you’re counting watts per gram on every climb or chasing razor-sharp acceleration, you’ll be better served by a pure climbing wheelset. On the other hand, if you’re after maximum aero performance – for crit racing and full-gas sprints – the 65 mm version of the ARC series is a strong option. It sits right at the proposed UCI depth limit and is designed to squeeze every last bit of aero advantage.
And for those who love the satisfying buzz of a premium freehub on fast descents, the DT 180 DICUT hubs won’t disappoint.
Conclusion
The new DT Swiss ARC 1100 wheelset is a well-executed evolution, reflecting the characteristically conservative Swiss approach to rim width If you’re looking for a true aero all-rounder that balances performance and everyday usability, this wheelset delivers. With precise handling, impressive stability and a finely tuned wheel-tire system, this package goes beyond pure racing. It also shines in ambitious training rides and everyday fast-paced efforts.
Tops
- High stiffness
- Precise handling
- Impressive efficiency
- Satisfying freehub soundd
Flops
- A bit sluggish on climbs
- Limited compliance
For more information, head to dtswiss.com.
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Words: Jan Fock Photos: Jan Fock
