Leeze carbon wheelset for gravel bikes: A wide but shallow rim profile – the latest trend?
Josh Welz
· 28.08.2026
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In gravel racing, tyres are getting wider. Whilst a few years ago, 40 millimetres was still considered a generous tyre width, today tyre widths of 50, 55 or even 60 millimetres are no longer a rarity. Greater volume can provide additional traction, lower rolling resistance and greater control on rough terrain. However, this is only possible if the rim is compatible with the tyre.
This is exactly where the new Leeze CH 45 PRO GX comes in. The second gravel wheelset in the PRO series, launched in spring 2026, combines a particularly wide carbon rim with a comparatively low-profile tyre. The aim: plenty of tyre volume, lower tyre pressures and agile handling on varied terrain.
30-millimetre inner rim width for wide gravel tyres
The key feature of the CH 45 PRO GX wheelset is the new hookless carbon rim with an internal width of 30 millimetres. The rim’s external width is 36 millimetres. According to Leeze, this is the widest rim profile the manufacturer has developed to date.
The wide rim shoulder is designed to provide better support for high-volume tyres. As a result, the tyre takes on a less pear-shaped profile and is less likely to deform or tilt outwards during fast cornering. At the same time, drivers can ride with lower tyre pressures without the tyre feeling spongy, according to the manufacturer.
According to the ETRTO standard, the wheelset is approved for use with tyres with a nominal width of 47 millimetres or more. Based on its own internal tests, Leeze also approves selected tyre models from as little as 40 millimetres. This means the CH 45 PRO GX could also be of interest for gravel bikes, where tyre clearance is limited to between 40 and 45 millimetres. The key factor here remains the approval status of the specific tyre being used.
45-millimetre rim height for technical terrain
With a rim height of 45 millimetres, the CH 45 PRO GX is significantly flatter than the existing CH 60 PRO GX. Leeze is therefore positioning the new model not simply as an aero wheelset for long, open gravel sections, but as a more agile option for challenging and varied terrain.
The reduced sidewall height is designed to make the bike’s behaviour in crosswinds more predictable. This can be a particular advantage on open descents or when changing direction frequently. At the same time, according to the manufacturer, the wheelset weighs just 1,240 grams. This is said to be particularly noticeable during frequent accelerations, such as when emerging from tight bends, climbing short ramps or breaking out of a slipstream.
CH 45 PRO GX or CH 60 PRO GX?
With this new model, Leeze offers two different gravel concepts within the PRO series:
| Wheel set | Scope of application | Rim height | Internal jaw width | Weight |
| CH 45 PRO GX | Technical, varied terrain and wide tyres | 45 mm | 30 mm | 1,240 g |
| CH 60 PRO GX | Fast, open gravel sections with a high sustained pace | 60 mm | 28 mm | 1,280 g |
SAPIM CX carbon spokes and a 2:1 lacing pattern
Like the other wheels in the PRO series, the CH 45 PRO GX is also built with SAPIM CX carbon spokes. Leeze states that these spokes offer around 80 per cent greater stiffness and are a good 40 per cent lighter than conventional steel spokes.
The front and rear wheels each have 18 spokes. The spokes are fitted in a straight-pull configuration with an asymmetrical 2:1 lacing pattern. This means that the spokes are distributed differently on either side of the wheel. This is intended to distribute the spoke tension more evenly, whilst keeping the wheel stable under drive load.
The rim and spokes are combined with Leeze PRO hubs, which are specifically designed for use with carbon spokes. The freehub uses classic pawl mechanisms. This is intended to simplify maintenance. Furthermore, the freehub is compatible with the hubs of the Leeze BASIC wheelsets.
Versions are available for Shimano HG 10/11/12, SRAM XDR 12/13 and Shimano MicroSpline. According to Leeze, Campagnolo and N3W freewheels are available on request.
Features, price and availability
Visually, Leeze opts for a glossy in-mould finish with a visible carbon weave. The pre-painted decals are available in either black or white. Tubeless rim tape is fitted as standard, and two matching Leeze PRO tubeless valves are included.
Leeze also offers optional bearing upgrades from Croder Ceramic or CeramicSpeed. The maximum system weight is 120 kilograms. In addition, the manufacturer provides a lifetime crash replacement guarantee.
The Leeze CH 45 PRO GX is due to go on sale from 28 August 2026, with prices starting at 1,599 euros.
Technical Specifications
| Characteristic | Leeze CH 45 PRO GX |
| Rim height | 45 mm |
| Internal jaw width | 30 mm, hookless |
| External width | 36 mm |
| Weight | 1,240 g |
| Tyre approval | ETRTO from 47 mm, selected models from 40 mm |
| Spokes | SAPIM CX Carbon, Straight Pull, 18/18, 2:1 |
| Hubs | Leeze PRO, Centre Lock |
| Wheelbase | 12 × 100 mm at the front, 12 × 142 mm at the rear |
| Free-wheels | Shimano HG 10/11/12, SRAM XDR 12/13, Shimano MicroSpline |
| Maximum system weight | 120 kg |
| Price | from 1,599 euros |
Josh Welz
Editor-in-Chief