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Coveted Wheels: Smart Enve System 6.7 Clincher

  • By Paul Moore
  • Published November 6, 2012

Wind tunnel test results indicate that the Smart Enve System 6.7 Clincher is at or near the head of the class aerodynamically—more than holding its own against many deeper options. The wheelset consists of a 60mm front rim and a 70mm rear rim. Passing wind crosses the rider at a shallower angle at the rear, and a deeper, narrower rim is best suited to those conditions, but a shallower and wider alternative is ideal for the front. So, Enve designed the front rim 26mm wide, and the rear is 24mm.

While wheel aerodynamics have improved over the past five years, increased stability has been the most meaningful leap. The Enve 6.7s feel as stabile as other conventional aero wheels that are half as deep, which helps maintain control in a wider variety of conditions without expending extra energy trying to keep the bike going straight. When it comes to responsiveness, Enve also hit the nail on the head. The 6.7 is possibly the laterally stiffest deep wheel- set I have ridden.

In addition to the handling, power transmission and aerodynamic benefits, the braking track modulates well. It does not pulse, and it boasts stopping power similar to an alloy rim when used with SwissStop Yellow King pads. My only criticism of the 6.7 is hub selection: DT Swiss 240 hubs roll smoothly and are exceptionally durable, but they exhibit more bearing seal drag than some of the competition. They’re perfect if you’re going to bring the 6.7s out for big weekly rides in addition to race day.

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Paul Moore

Paul Moore

Paul Moore is the Online Editor for Triathlete Europe. When not glued to a computer he can be found writing books - most recently The World's Toughest Endurance Challenges which you can buy on Amazon. Paul has also written Ultimate Triathlon: A complete training guide for long-distance triathletes which is also available on Amazon.