'The fastest gravel wheels ever built' - Enve's new G SES gravel wheels take rim widths to a new level

Enve has unveiled its latest G SES gravel wheelset range, pushing the boundaries of rim width and aerodynamic efficiency for gravel racing. The new lineup includes three models: the flagship G SES 6.7 Pro, alongside the SES 4.5 and SES 4.5 Pro wheelsets. These wheels are designed to accommodate the growing trend of high-volume gravel tyres, combining wide internal rim widths with aerodynamic optimisation to meet the demands of faster, more specialised gravel riding. The standout model, the G SES 6.7 Pro, features an unprecedented 35mm internal rim width, surpassing the previous market leader, Zipp’s 32mm-wide 303 XPLR wheels. With front and rear rims measuring 60mm and 67mm deep respectively, and an external width of 42.6mm, these wheels are tailored to work best with tyres ranging from 44mm to 52mm. Enve claims this wheelset is the most aerodynamically efficient gravel wheel available, supported by wind-tunnel data showing significant drag reductions compared to both their own AG25 baseline and the Zipp XPLR wheels. Enve’s aerodynamic testing highlights an average drag reduction of around 3.5% at speeds of 32kph and 48kph against the Zipp XPLR, translating to power savings of 8 watts at 32kph and 25 watts at 45kph over the AG25. The brand emphasises the importance of tyre choice, noting that tread pattern can influence aerodynamic performance, although real-world factors such as rolling resistance and puncture protection remain critical considerations. The 6.7 Pro wheels also feature lightweight construction, with a claimed weight of 1,580 grams per pair, and utilise Enve’s Innerdrive Pro hubs with ceramic bearings. The SES 4.5 and 4.5 Pro wheelsets offer a slightly narrower 30mm internal rim width and shallower rim depths, catering to riders seeking a balance between weight savings and aerodynamic performance. The 4.5 Pro model is 100 grams lighter than the 6.7 Pro, with rim depths of 49mm front and 55mm rear, while the standard 4.5 uses a more durable hubset and brass nipples at a lower price point. Both models maintain the same rim width and are priced below the 6.7 Pro, providing options for riders at different levels of competition. With prices starting at $2,850 for the SES 4.5 and rising to $3,100 for the Pro versions, Enve’s new G SES range targets serious gravel racers looking for cutting-edge technology. The company has already sent a set of the 6.7 Pro wheels for real-world testing, which will provide further insight into their performance beyond the wind tunnel. This launch marks a significant step in the evolution of gravel wheel design, reflecting the increasing speed and technical demands of the discipline.