New Mavic Comete 50 – Now Lighter, Wider, & Finally Feels Current

Mavic has unveiled the Comete 50, a significant update to their aero road wheel range that signals a clear shift towards modern design and performance standards. This new model features a 50mm deep carbon rim with a notably wider profile—23mm internal and 30mm external width—marking a departure from Mavic’s traditionally conservative approach. The Comete 50 is positioned as an all-around aero wheelset designed to perform across a variety of race conditions, from climbing to fast group rides, aiming to be the go-to choice for approximately 85% of racing scenarios. The wheelset is more than just a rim upgrade; Mavic has developed it as a comprehensive system that integrates rim shape, carbon spokes, hub internals, and tyre pairing to optimise performance. The wider rim supports modern 28mm tyres, enhancing airflow and ride comfort, aligning Mavic with current market trends that favour wider tyres for better speed and handling. A standout feature is the use of flat-profile carbon spokes arranged in a unique 21-spoke pattern, combining 14 crossed and 7 radial spokes to balance aerodynamics, power transfer, and durability, while a new “Locked-In Spoke Head” system aims to maintain spoke tension over time. Aerodynamic improvements have been carefully engineered, with Mavic citing up to 12 seconds saved over 50km compared to their previous Cosmic SLR 45 model. Extensive wind tunnel testing, including crosswind scenarios, has informed the design to ensure stability and efficiency in real-world riding conditions rather than idealised headwinds. The company has also employed an “Adaptive Layup” of different carbon fibres to fine-tune stiffness and vibration damping, resulting in a wheel that offers a blend of aero performance and ride comfort, moving towards a slightly stiffer feel than past Mavic wheels. Hub updates, while subtle, contribute to overall efficiency gains with features like a 40-tooth ratchet system, ceramic bearings, and lighter hub shells, all aimed at reducing friction and improving power transfer. Durability has not been overlooked; the Comete 50 has been tested well beyond UCI standards for impact resistance and fatigue, promising longevity even under demanding conditions. This new wheelset represents Mavic’s commitment to modernising their lineup and providing riders with a versatile, high-performance option that simplifies wheel choices without compromising on speed or reliability.