Roval Control 29 Carbon Wheels Review

The Roval 29 wheels are a high-performance wheelsets designed for cross-country and trail riding. They feature a lightweight carbon fiber rim construction that provides excellent stiffness and durability, while reducing overall weight.

Roval Carbon wheels have emerged as one of the most appealing choices in the bike market for XC and other trail enthusiasts. Boasting an impressively lightweight design at just 1440g, these wheels are constructed from carbon and have been effectively tested on Specialized S-Works Epic and Epic EVO models.

Pros & Cons of Roval Control 29 Carbon Wheels

Pros

Lightweight carbon fiber construction

Roval Control 29 Carbon wheels are made of high-quality carbon fiber material, which offers several advantages. First, the carbon fiber material provides excellent stiffness and reduces the overall weight of the wheel.

This results in improved acceleration, speed and responsiveness of the bike. Personally, the lightweight construction of the wheels makes it easier for me to handle the bike and maneuver through technical terrain.

Wide Inner Rim Width

The 25mm inner rim width of Roval 29 Carbon wheels offers a stable tire platform, improving cornering and handling. The wider rim width allows for a wider tire profile, leading to better traction and an overall improved ride quality.

I’ve found the wider rim width also helps reduce the chance of flats and allows for lower tire pressure, resulting in better bike control and comfort.

DT Swiss internals with a 54-tooth chainring system

Roval 29 Carbon wheels have high-quality DT Swiss internals with a quick-chaining system with 54 teeth.

The system offers faster and more responsive engagement, resulting in better power transfer and improved acceleration. Due to the high quality interior the wheels are more durable and are much less likely to have mechanical problems over time.

Suitable for cross-country and trail riding

Roval 29 Carbon wheels are designed to handle cross-country and trail riding.

Based on my many many years of experience, I can confidently say that these wheels are suitable for different driving styles and types of terrain. Whether you want to tackle technical singletrack or fast cross-country trails, the Roval 29 Carbon wheels are a great option.

Excellent durability

Roval 29 Carbon wheels are known for their excellent traction and durability. The carbon fiber construction, wider rim width and high-quality interior contribute to a set of wheels that provide outstanding grip and long-lasting durability.

Cons

Expensive

In my opinion one of the main disadvantages of the Roval 29 Carbon wheels is their price. They are a premium option that may not be affordable for all riders.

I believe the high price might deter some riders looking for a more budget-friendly wheelset.

Hubs require maintenance

Some riders have reported problems with hubs, especially the body and freehub nuts. These parts may require maintenance or replacement over time, which can add to the total cost of a set of wheels.

Prone to damage on rocky or technical terrain

Although the Roval 29 Carbon wheels are designed to handle various types of terrain, as I mentioned earlier, they can sometimes be susceptible to dents or damage on very rocky or technical terrain. This can be a concern for riders who frequently ride on more challenging terrain.

Limited tire size options

The 25mm inner rim width of the Roval 29 Carbon wheels may not be suitable for riders who prefer wider tire profiles, limiting the range of tire options available for the wheelset.

From my personal experience I can say that the Roval 29 Carbon wheels are fast, responsive and provide good traction. They are also very durable, with many riders commenting on their ability to withstand rough terrain and harsh riding conditions.

This wheelset is designed for high-performance cross-country and trail riding. The rims have a 25mm internal width, suitable for 2.1-2.3 inch tires.

Stiff carbon rims help transfer power efficiently, while the wide internal rim width offers a stable platform for the tires, allowing for better ride and handling. Overall, the Roval 29 wheels are a high-quality set that can help improve your performance on the trail.

Although they may be expensive, their durability and performance make them a worthwhile investment for serious riders.

Who are they for?

The Roval 29 Carbon wheels cater to cyclists seeking a top-notch, lightweight, and durable wheelset. Designed to enhance acceleration, speed, and responsiveness, these wheels also elevate overall ride quality and handling.

With a wide internal rim width and high-quality DT Swiss components, they prove versatile across various terrain types and riding styles, from technical singletrack to speedy cross-country trails. However, their premium price point may render them inaccessible for some riders.

On the trail with the Roval 29 Carbon

Drawing from my personal experience, I must say I am truly impressed with these wheels. Their lightweight, responsive, and highly durable nature has enhanced my cycling adventures.

The 25mm wide internal rim width offers a stable foundation for my tires, boosting traction and cornering capabilities on the trail. I’ve observed considerable improvements in my bike’s handling and stability, particularly on technical terrain.

Furthermore, the DT Swiss internals, equipped with a 54-tooth ratchet system, ensure rapid engagement, resulting in better power transfer and swifter acceleration. This upgrade has noticeably impacted my ability to maintain speed and momentum on the trail, particularly during steep climbs and challenging sections.

In conclusion, a wider internal rim width can substantially improve your bike’s performance on the trail, and it’s fantastic that you have experienced these benefits firsthand!

Final thoughts

Overall, the Roval 29 Carbon wheels are a high-quality and dependable wheelset designed to enhance the performance of cross-country bikes. Although Roval 29 Carbon wheels may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, they offer exceptional durability and reliability that make them well worth the investment for serious riders.

Potential drawbacks, such as the need for hub maintenance and limited tire size options, should be considered before purchase. However, these are relatively minor issues compared to the overall quality of these wheels. The Roval 29 Carbon wheels are an excellent option for riders seeking a high-quality and reliable wheelset that will improve their performance on the trail.

Anita Velickovska

Anita, an avid cyclist with over a decade of experience, began her journey on two wheels as a means to stay fit and explore her local surroundings. Her passion for the sport quickly grew, transforming her into a devoted and competitive rider.

With a penchant for both on and off-road cycling, Anita constantly seeks out new trails and routes to conquer. Her competitive spirit has led her to participate in numerous races and events, securing a spot on the podium in most of them.