DUKE RIM SIERRA ÆRA W48

Sierra Æra W48 is the most committed Wide profile in the Sierra Æra range: a rim designed for the front wheel in high-speed gravel racing, and fully usable as a matched W48/W48 setup when the priority is clearly an average speed above 30 km/h.

With its 48 mm depth and 43 mm external width, it maximises the tyre-rim transition with modern gravel tyres. The profile remains Wide to keep alignment with 40 to 45 mm sections, but gains depth to better support speed on fast tracks and long straights.

Its signature Æra relief, developed using CFD, reduces drag by up to 10% compared with a smooth rim of the same depth, without degrading crosswind stability. This is essential on a front wheel: at high speed, aero gain only matters if the bike stays readable, precise and controllable in gusts.

Built with the SLR5 process, Sierra Æra W48 combines Toray T1100 fibres, aerospace-grade resin and an optimised lay-up. At 460 g, it embraces a more committed profile than the W42, with a structure designed for fast gravel racing, sustained efforts and high speeds.

DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) limits vibration transmitted to the rider and stabilises the wheel when the surface is fast but irregular. SpokeCore moulded spoke holes reinforce rim homogeneity; wide AntiPinch beads allow gravel pressures to be maintained without unnecessarily exposing the tyre to impact damage.

With 28 mm internal width and 43 mm external width, Sierra Æra W48 gives its full potential with 40 to 45 mm tyres. It prioritises real-world speed: a tyre wide enough to keep grip and comfort, paired with a rim deep and wide enough to reduce aerodynamic losses.

As a front wheel with an Æra 56 rear, it forms our high-speed combo. As a W48/W48 wheelset, it is aimed at racers who want a matched Wide setup that is stable and fast, suited to rolling races, long sections above 30 km/h and terrain where aero becomes a decisive factor.