DUKE RIM SIERRA ÆRA W 48

Sierra Æra 48 is the most versatile standard profile in the Sierra Æra family: an aero gravel rim designed for the rear wheel, yet also fully coherent as a matched 48/48 setup when the goal is a lighter, narrower race configuration than a Wide build.

With its 48 mm depth and 35.9 mm external width, it prioritises the weight / profile ratio. At the rear, this choice makes sense: the wheel operates in airflow already disturbed by the rider and pedalling motion, where the priority becomes less the tyre-rim transition and more sustained speed, useful inertia and controlled weight.

Its signature Æra relief, developed using CFD, reduces drag by up to 10% compared with a smooth rim of the same depth. On fast tracks, long straights and races where the pace remains high, this optimisation helps turn theoretical speed into real-world gains.

Built with the SLR5 process, Sierra Æra 48 combines Toray T1100 fibres, aerospace-grade resin and an optimised lay-up. At 390 g, it is lighter than the Wide versions while still bringing a genuine aero dimension, making it especially relevant for all-round gravel racing.

DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) remains essential: it filters vibration, stabilises wheel behaviour and reduces fatigue over long distances. SpokeCore moulded spoke holes ensure a homogeneous, durable structure, while AntiPinch beads improve safety when the terrain requires lower pressures.

With its 28 mm internal width, Sierra Æra 48 is fully suited to modern gravel tyres. It works well with 40 to 45 mm sections to optimise aero performance, while keeping broader compatibility depending on the level of grip and comfort required.

As a rear wheel paired with an Æra W42 front, Sierra Æra 48 forms our reference all-round aero setup. As a matched 48/48 wheelset, it is aimed at racers who want a simple, fast and lighter configuration, ideal for mixed courses, long races and high averages without excessive depth.