The new TLO 50 wheelset by Schmolke is stiff, light and above all, very aerodynamic, even at 30 km/h.
In order to make the overall system of tyres and rims as aerodynamic as possible, Schmolke increased the external width of the rim to an impressive 32.5 mm. At the same time, the rim height went up to 50 mm versus the existing TLO 37 wheels. And the U-shape of the rim has been aerodynamically optimized.
The result of all these adjustments is a noticeable sailing effect at yaw angles of 5-15 degrees. The yaw angle is the sum of the headwind and crosswind. The faster the cyclist goes, the less influence the crosswind has, as the headwind becomes increasingly dominant. For the average cyclist, this effect occurs at 30 km/h as well. Negative sidewind effects, for instance when overtaken by a truck, have been reduced as well.
The high tensile strength of the applied carbon fibers makes it possible to allow both higher tire pressures and total rider weight (max 115 kg). And the relatively large 32.5 mm rim width hasn’t effected the weight, being just 215 grams. Schmolke claims that the TLO50 wheelset is the lightest on the planet.
The rims are hooked to guarantee a secure and easy fit. A standard floor pump should be sufficient to pump your TL tires when fitted. The wheelset is delivered tubeless ready as standard, i.e. with glued-on rim tape and valve.
The wheels can be selected with three different hub versions; the new SPD3+ hubs from Extralite, DT Swiss 180 hubs or a NONPLUS Primaro hub set. Carbon spokes and titanium end pieces will complete the total package of these extremely fast, light and yet comfortable wheels.
Specifications
Rims: carbon fiber T1100, hooked, height 50 mm, external, width 32,5 mm, internal width 25 mm, tubeless ready (clincher optional) asymmetrical 24 holes, max tire pressure (mm/bar): 28/7.3 – 32/6,2 – 35/5,5 – 40/4.7
Hubs: either NONPLUS Primaro (centerlock) or Extralite SPD3+ (HDC-Ceramic 6-bolt or centerlock) or DT Swiss 180 (centerlock), compatibility front 100 mm, rear 142 mm, through axle 12 mm
Spokes: carbon spokes
Finish: carbon UD with black or white logos
Compatible with: Shimano, SRAM or Campagnolo
Max. system weight: 115 kg
Total weight: 940 g (Extralite SPD3+ and NONPLUS Primaro hubs) or 1025 g (DT Swiss 180 hubs)
Rim weight only: approx. 315 g (per rim)
Price*: € 3.050 – € 3.600 depending on selected parts
More information: https://www.schmolke-carbon.com/product/new-tlo-50-cl-tlr-disc/
*Manufacturer price, this could vary by country, pls check your local supplier
Images: Schmolke Carbon