Hunt is renewing its range of aerodynamic wheels with the new Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc series. The cycling brand is presenting three new models that are designed to meet the needs of racing cyclists. According to the manufacturer, the 34_34, 44_46 and 54_58 wheels - the numbers stand for the rim heights of the front and rear wheels respectively - are characterised by front and rear wheel-specific rim profiles, optional carbon spokes and a new hub design. Hunt states that the development took over three years and more than 47,000 hours of computing time. The aim was to design wheels that offer an optimum balance of aerodynamic efficiency, crosswind stability and low system weight. The engineers concentrated on optimisation for modern racing bike tyres with a width of 28 to 30 millimetres.
Focus on aerodynamic efficiency
When developing the new Aerodynamicist wheels, Hunt paid particular attention to aerodynamic efficiency. Extensive CFD simulations and wind tunnel tests were used to optimise the rim profiles for the front and rear wheels separately. For the front wheel, the focus was on a rounded profile with a larger outer width in order to reduce drag over a wide range of flow angles. The rear wheel profile, on the other hand, was designed to be slightly narrower and deeper in order to make optimum use of the disrupted airflow behind the rider and frame. Specialized, for example, takes a similar approach with its Roval rims. Hunt states that the new wheels have lower air resistance and lower weight compared to competitor models with the same rim height.
Technical details and equipment
All three models in the Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc series have rims with an inner width of 22 millimetres. The outer widths vary between 28.4 and 31.7 millimetres, depending on the model. Hunt relies on a hook flange, which should enable the use of tyres between 25 and 50 millimetres wide. The new H_Ratchet 40T DBL hubs are used. With 40 teeth and a 9 degree engagement angle, these should ensure a quick response. According to Hunt, the hubs are fitted with high-quality Enduro ABEC 5 stainless steel industrial bearings. The wheels should be particularly light with the optional TaperLock UD carbon spokes. These would not only save weight, but also increase stiffness and dampen vibrations.
Model variants and weights
The lightest model in the series is the 34_34 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc. According to the manufacturer, it weighs 1264 grams with steel spokes and only 1175 grams with carbon spokes. The 44_46 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc weighs 1364 grams and 1274 grams respectively. The top model 54_58 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc weighs 1468 grams with steel spokes and 1391 grams with carbon spokes. Hunt states that the rims of the 54_58 model are made from a recyclable epoxy resin, which should enable them to be recycled at the end of their service life.
Prices and availability
The new Hunt Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc wheels will be available in limited quantities from the end of May 2025. The recommended retail prices start at 1149 euros for the 34_34 model with steel spokes. Hunt is calling for 1179 euros for the 44_46 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc. The top model 54_58 Aerodynamicist Carbon Disc will cost 1199 euros. The same variants with carbon spokes each cost 400 euros more.
Technical specifications
- Inner rim width: 22 millimetres (all models)
- Rim width: 28.4 - 31.7 millimetres (depending on model)
- Rim height: 34 - 58 millimetres (depending on model)
- Spokes: Pillar Wing 20 Elliptical Aero or TaperLock UD Carbon
- Number of spokes: 20 front / 24 rear (steel), 18 front / 20 rear (carbon)
- Hubs: HUNT H_Ratchet DBL, 40 teeth, 9 degree engagement angle
- Bearings: Enduro ABEC 5 stainless steel industrial bearings
- Weight: 1175 - 1468 grams (depending on model and spokes)
- Tyre width: 25 - 50 millimetres
- Price: 1149 - 1599 Euro (RRP)
