Hot or Not? Testing the 2025 Roval Rapide CLX III

With a revised aero concept, wider rims and carbon spokes, component brand Roval are launching the third generation of their popular Rapide CLX wheelset. But can it live up to the success of its predecessors? And which riders will actually benefit from the Roval Rapide CLX III? We took a closer look in our in-depth review.

With the latest generation of the Rapide CLX wheels, Roval are pulling out all the stops. Carbon spokes, lower weight, and a completely revised aero concept – all wrapped up in that unmistakable Roval style. Last year’s limited CLX II Team Edition hinted at the new direction (and we loved the silver hubs), but the new Rapide CLX III is a more complete realisation of the concept.

It’s not just a minor update to the aero concept – Roval say they’ve turned it completely on its head. Quite literally, in fact: instead of the usual deeper rear rim, the new setup has a 51 mm rim at the front and 48 mm at the back. The focus is firmly on the front wheel, where Roval claim up to 90% of aerodynamic drag occurs. That’s exactly where the new design comes in. A slightly deeper front rim boosts aero performance, while a shallower rear rim is said to improve stability in crosswinds and deliver more predictable, stable handling.

The biggest update? Carbon spokes. This is the first time that Roval have used carbon fibre spokes in one of their drop bar wheelsets. According to the brand, this shaves around 100 g off the weight, increases stiffness and delivers noticeably more direct power transfer. The spokes were developed in collaboration with ARRIS Composites – the same partner involved in Specialized’s super-lightweight Control SL XC wheels.

Roval have also introduced new hubs with a sleek dark chrome finish, as well as a revised rim profile with their signature clean aesthetic. The previous model already impressed in our carbon wheel group test with its efficiency and comfort. So the question is: can the new carbon spokes and subtle design tweaks make the ride feel even more responsive?

With an internal rim width of 21 mm, the wheels are optimised for 28 mm tires – still a smart choice from an aerodynamic perspective. That said, 28 is fast becoming the new 25, and our recent road tire comparison suggests that 30 mm is now setting the benchmark in many scenarios. But how does all of this actually perform on the road? And who should consider investing in a € 3,500 wheelset? That’s exactly what we set out to find.

On Test: What Can the New Roval Rapide CLX III Do?

To do justice to the comprehensive update of the Roval Rapide CLX III, we spent several months putting the wheelset through its paces on a range of different bikes. Our test setup followed Roval’s recommendation, using 28 mm Specialized RapidAir TLR tires. Fitted to the wide front rim with its characteristically broad, flat-top bead hooks, the relatively narrow tire looks a little unusual at first glance. Roval say this design ensures a particularly smooth transition between tire and rim, noticeably improving aerodynamic performance – especially in crosswind conditions.

From the moment you start rolling, it’s clear that the Rapide CLX III wheels deliver a noticeably more direct ride feel. Compared to their predecessor, the impact of the new carbon spokes is immediately obvious: the wheelset is significantly stiffer, but without feeling harsh. Over longer distances, it’s this well-judged balance between stiffness and compliance that really comes into its own.

On climbs, the CLX III responds rapidly to every change in pace. Power transfer feels light-footed and racy – the reduced weight and high torsional stiffness ensure that every watt goes straight into forward momentum. While they’re not among the absolute lightest climbing wheels on the market, they still deliver a snappy, lively ride.

The same applies in corners: the Rapide CLX III carve through turns with precision and composure, offering predictable handling throughout. Whether it’s fast changes of direction or tight technical descents, the wheelset builds confidence, without feeling overly sharp or twitchy. The setup feels composed, stable and reassuringly race-focused, especially on the new Specialized S-Works Aethos 2.

On flat terrain, the wheelset delivers excellent efficiency. Compared to other aero wheels, the sail effect is more restrained, but the upside is noticeably reduced susceptibility to crosswinds. The RapidAir TLR tires give the setup a taut, sporty character, though that comes at the expense of comfort. What you get in return is razor-sharp handling and direct feedback from the road.

If you’re after a slightly softer ride, switching to 30 mm tubeless tires and running lower pressures could be a smart move to bring more comfort into the mix.

Visually, the new CLX III is every bit as premium as you’d expect from Roval: a sleek carbon finish, clean lines and a confidently technical look. The flat carbon spokes fit seamlessly into the overall design – though the exposed aluminium nipples do feel slightly dated on such an otherwise sleek setup. Internal nipples would have completed the look perfectly, though at the expense of practicality.

The new hubs impress with a rich, classic ratchet sound and an elegant dark chrome finish. Proportions are spot on too: the front wheel looks noticeably wider, while the rear rim has also gained volume, resulting in a modern, well-balanced silhouette.

Which brings us to the aero promise: on paper, the asymmetrical rim depth is meant to boost efficiency, but in practice, the difference is likely only noticeable to the pros. If you’re expecting massive aero gains from the new rim profile, you may want to dial those expectations back a little. What really stands out instead is the wheelset’s versatility for everyday training, and its well-rounded ride quality.

Who Are the New Roval Rapide CLX III Wheels For?

The new Rapide CLX III are not really aimed at riders who roll out the S-Works for a gentle cafe cruise of a Sunday morning, but rather for riders who want to push hard and feel instant response with every pedal stroke. This is a wheelset for those chasing a no-compromise all-round race setup. If you’re riding 28 to 30 mm tires, you’ll find a thoroughly modern carbon wheel system here. It’s not aimed at hardcore weight weenies or comfort-first riders, but rather those who want a fast, focused all-rounder that thrives when pushed hard.

Conclusion: Would We Buy the New Roval Rapide CLX III?

Yes: Even though Roval stay true to their premium image with a price tag just shy of € 3,500, the Rapide CLX III wheels offer a well-rounded package of low weight, high efficiency and sharp handling. The carbon spokes not only add a noticeable boost in responsiveness, but also bring a healthy dose of style to the road too. If you’re after confident crosswind control and a lively, race-ready feel, this is a true all-round carbon wheelset that delivers – and not just on the new Aethos 2.

More information at specialized.com/roval.

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Words: Jan Fock Photos: Robin Ulbrich, Jan Richter