ENVE SES 7.8 | The Next Generation in Rim Braking

Description

The ENVE SES 7.8 Wheelset is ENVE’s fastest aero wheelset. The rim brake specific wheelset is perfect for experienced triathletes and road racers seeking maximum aero performance, stability and stopping power.

Designed by aerodynamicist Simon Smart and utilising in-frame aero development at the Mercedes AMG Petronas wind tunnel, the SES 7.8 brings together dissimilar front and rear rim depths, widths and sidewall curvatures. This combination optimises the aero efficiency of the wheels and bike as a whole, giving blistering real-world speed and outstanding crosswind stability.

When the race is against the wind and the clock, the ENVE SES 7.8 is optimised for the task. By reducing the tradeoffs between aerodynamics, stability, weight, and stiffness, the SES 7.8 carbon fibre aero wheel is the perfect tool for road racing and triathlon alike. The SES 7.8 features asymmetric rim geometries front to back.  The dissimilar rim geometries improve the efficiency of the airflow in the system of bike frame and wheels. Because running 25mm tyres is now standard, the ENVE 7.8 was designed with larger tyres in mind. Additionally, frame manufacturers are now producing frames that have more clearance between wheels and frames which has opened up the design scope for a wheelset.

Like all ENVE SES wheels, the SES 7.8 gets its name from its rim depths: 71mm front and 78mm rear. The wider front rim shape features the best compromise between steering stability and drag reduction when taking into account the relatively clean oncoming flow of air. The rear sees a more turbulent flow and larger frame interaction, negating stability concerns and allowing for a narrower wheel that improves overall airflow attachment for reduced drag.

It’s all about the Rim:

For the rim brake rider looking for uncompromised braking performance, there’s nothing better than ENVE’s full carbon moulded brake track. This textured surface with high temperature resistance achieves exceptional stopping power and equal performance in wet and dry conditions. Braking force at the levers is also decreased by 30% compared to the previous generation brake track, allowing you to brake late with confidence through sweeping bends. When built with the ENVE Carbon Road Hub the Enve SES 7.8 comes in at a weight of 1562 grams making it a viable choice for courses that feature flat to hilly terrain.

The clincher version of the SES 7.8 also utilises advances in road tyre and frame technologies to add user-friendly tubeless compatibility optimised for 25mm tyres. This gives real-world gains in rolling resistance, comfort, traction and reduced chances of pinch punctures.

Industry leaders in carbon fibre, every ENVE rim is handmade from raw uni-directional carbon at ENVE’s headquarters in Utah, USA. The bespoke construction process utilises rim-specific carbon laminates, moulded spoke holes, and removable bladders. The paint-free finish allows the beautiful handmade quality to shine through.

Enve SES 7.8 Summary

WHO IS IT FOR?

• Experienced triathletes, road racers and time trialers seeking maximum aero performance and stability.

WHY DID WE MAKE IT?

• We made the SES 7.8 to achieve two things: more speed and more stability. The ENVE 7.8 embodies the latest SES technologies and includes our newest moulded in brake track and tubeless clincher tyre compatibility. The SES 7.8 is wider and specifically optimised to perform best when used with a modern aero frame and large 25mm tyres.

Here’s a nice promo video featuring the wheel in action.

Rachel Joyce – Ready from ENVE Composites on Vimeo.