A Bold Departure from the Trend

In a surprising twist that has left cycling enthusiasts buzzing, ENVE has unveiled its latest flagship road wheelset, the SES 4.5 Pro, defying the growing trend towards wider, hookless rims. This innovative wheelset, set to power renowned cyclist Tadej Pogačar at the 2025 Tour de France, showcases a narrower design that breathes new life into top-level cycling performance.

What Makes the SES 4.5 Pro Unique?

With an internal width of just 23.5mm, the SES 4.5 Pro wheels are 1.5mm narrower than their predecessors, ensuring compatibility with the latest ETRTO recommendations for 28mm-wide tyres. This shift is particularly notable in light of the governing body’s clarification regarding rim and tyre standards following a controversial incident at the recent UAE Tour.

The Mini-Hook Innovation

One of the most eye-catching features of the SES 4.5 Pro is its integration of ‘mini-hooks.’ This design represents a strategic pivot back to traditional features, allowing for a lighter ride while also mitigating risks tied to future regulatory changes regarding hookless rims. According to ENVE's team, this shift enables athletes like Pogačar to utilize lighter tyres without sacrificing performance, especially on mountainous terrains.

Performance-Driven Design Changes

The SES 4.5 Pro’s weight-saving measures have resulted in a rim that is not only shallower—49mm at the front and 55mm at the rear—but also 137g lighter overall, clocking in at a mere 1,295g. This makes it ideal for climbers looking for an advantage on challenging courses. ENVE maintains that despite its new dimensions, the wheelset retains the aerodynamic benefits of earlier models, promising minimal performance losses.

The Technological Edge

Harnessing a new carbon layup, the SES 4.5 Pro features an upgraded ENVE Innerdrive Pro hubset designed for efficiency and speed, accommodating a 40-tooth ratchet system. With ceramic bearings now included, ENVE aims to provide top athletes with a robust edge in competitive settings, boasting a lighter overall hub weight and reduced friction.

A Wheelset for Champions

Priced at £4,100 / $3,750 / €4,499, the SES 4.5 Pro is positioned as a high-performance option for elite cyclists. Its refined capabilities and competitive advantages mark a significant milestone in ENVE’s evolving philosophy, as they embrace both innovation and tradition to meet the demanding needs of professional riders.

The Future of Racing Awaits

As Tadej Pogačar and his UAE Team Emirates allies prepare for the upcoming mountains of the Tour de France, all eyes will be on how the SES 4.5 Pro stacks up against its wider counterparts. Will this bold new wheelset pave the way for a new era in competitive cycling? Fans and competitors alike are eager to find out.