SES 100 PRO & SES Disc PRO Aero Data

Compared to the original SES rear disc wheel, the SES PRO has been aerodynamically tuned for 28 mm tires. To achieve improved aerodynamics for larger tires, the rim was made wider throughout, but its width is limited by constraints related to derailleur and frame clearances. The result is a roughly 0.69-watt advantage over the original ENVE rear disc wheel.

While aero performance was critical to its design, so too was weight. Even with an ambitious weight target of 1000 grams, we weren’t willing to sacrifice stiffness to get there. Ultimately, we achieved a true weight below that of our competitors.

ENVE’s aero development is focused on the Real-World Fast mantra. In practice, this means attempting to mimic the real-world scenario in the static environment of the tunnel. This is accomplished by developing rim shapes and testing them in a bike frame, with a rider. The graphs illustrate why it is important to develop aerodynamic products with a pedaling rider as part of the equation.

If testing were limited to “Bike Only” one could argue that there is not enough of an aero advantage with the 100mm deep front wheel to justify the added weight and side-forces. However, when a rider is added to the equation, you can see that the additional depth has a significant positive downstream effect, allowing the air to flow more efficiently pas the rider’s legs. The WAVE (Weight Average Drag)benefit to the SES 100 PRO over the SES 6.7, with rider on board, is 5.31 watts and is primarily realized at deeper wind angles