Updated in 2017, the Assault-Strike Carbon Clincher Wheelset remains a standout road race wheel combination that has been a staple of road and triathlon racing Perfect for rolling terrain, flats, and powerful finishes, the 2017 version gets a new hubset and rear wheel configuration that improves ride quality, acceleration, and overall performance. One of the reasons many wheel manufacturers sell individual wheels is the recognition that riders prefer to mix and match rim depths. With the Assault- Strike Clincher Wheelset, Reynolds pairs two of it's most popular 25mm wide rims that racers and enthusiasts often combine for fast road racing and short to long range triathlon courses where handling and speed have to balanced. The wheels are tubeless ready, allowing you to choose from the growing number of light, fast rolling tubeless tires like the Schwalbe One, Vittoria Corsa Speed G+, and many more.

The front wheel is the 41mm deep Assault, while the rear is the 62mm Strike. The wheels share the same quality workmanship and construction to provide wheels that are lighter, stiffer, and faster than the previous generations. Aerodynamics have also been improved through Computational Fluid Dynamics with the Enhanced SLG, or Swirl Lip Generator. This is essentially a groove on both sides of the rim profile that drastically improves air flow, reduces drag, and assists in wheel stability. Enhanced SLG reduces drag by 20%, resulting in a 12.5 second advantage over 40 kilometers.

To build the rims Reynolds sources aerospace-quality carbon fiber from Japan, developed specifically to Reynolds specifications. The engineers employ their PR3 methodology, precisely assigning different carbon fiber lay-ups to three distinct regions of the rim. Each lay-up (fiber, resin, and epoxy) is optimized for the specific requirements of that area. For example, the strength requirement of the rim hook bead is much different from the rim shell profile, but the brake track has it's own needs. As such, these areas have different construction. Reynolds considerable experience in cycling and working with carbon composites inform these decisions, just as it has in developing the CTg Braking System.

CTg is an acronym for Cryogenic Glass Transition and is comprised of very specific carbon and resin combinations to help dissipate heat at the exterior of the rim surface to enhance braking performance. Testing shows this reduces heat buildup by 53%, which keeps the inside of the rim much cooler than the exterior, essential for performance and safety. Proprietary Cryo-Blue Power brake pads are included with the wheelset and work in conjunction with the brake track to deliver the powerful, consistent braking while keeping things cool.

This wheel combination offers excellent versatility within many race disciplines and distances. This versatility also comes from the 25mm rim width (17mm internal) and the 41/62mm section profiles. Paired with a 23-25mm tire, the footprint is larger for exceptional grip and handling. Stability comes from the combination of the mid-section profiles and the increased width. You won't be buffeted by cross winds, nor get tentative on rougher roads or in sharp corners. The front Assault, with its 20 radially laced spokes has excellent stiffness for assertive cornering and the aerodynamics help you hold speed when in the wind, or when drafting. The Strike rear, with the 62mm profile keeps the rear super stable, and is still stiff with 24 spokes, laced 2x/2x. The lateral stiffness will impress you, and the vertical compliance will surprise you. There is rapid acceleration and consistent speed from the set, with the agility you'd expect from lower profile wheels.

Reynolds Cycling has built a new Performance hubset to replace the previous Racing hub model. The machined alloy hub bodies with sculpted forms that are proven in the wind tunnel, carrying straight-pull, lightly bladed steel spokes. The lightweight alloy freehub of the Strike is smooth, with fast, sure engagement. The 24 hole Strike, with the 2x/2x lacing is the big change from the previous model, offering a more compliant and better balanced tension, which results in better performance and lateral stiffness. The alloy nipples are external for easy truing. The rroad tubeless set-up for both wheels requires taping. Rim strips, quick releases, and tubeless valves are included, along with the Cryo-Blue brake pads.

If you are racing cyclist or triathlete looking for an aero wheelset for everyday riding and versatile racing events, the Assault-Strike SLG Clincher Wheelset has to be on your radar. Reynolds wheels have been proven year after year by continental pro teams and individual racers. You can have an excellent aerodynamic advantage for the price of just one higher-end wheel. The technology and construction will surprise those that haven't ridden Reynolds wheels, and the clincher/tubeless options keep you from fighting with tubulars and glue. Training and racing on the same wheels and tires makes you a more confident more relaxed rider allowing you to dedicate your focus and energy to the racing.