Frequently asked questions about the Aeolus family of Bontrager wheels

The aerodynamics of any structure are greatly affected by the angle of the wind. While most wheel manufacturers design their wheels to be optimal in a direct headwind, Keith Bontrager and Steve Hed jointly designed the Aeolus wheelsystem to provide the lowest drag results in the most common wind conditions; a slight cross headwind of 10-15%. The result is the ultimate choice for anyone who wants to maximize their technical advantage in Triathlon, Time Trial and Road Racing events where aerodynamics are crucial to success.

OCLV stands for Optimum Compaction, Low Void, the world's most advanced carbon fiber production process. Optimum Compaction squeezes air pockets between carbon fibers out, resulting in extremely Low Voids, the source of weakness and fatigue failures. There are a lot of other methods for manufactureing carbon fiber parts, but none can rival the superior strength to weight ratio of OCLV. It's a patented process so exclusive that it's utilized in only one factory in the world. And it's the only factory that Bontrager trusts to build the XXX Lite carbon rim, the foundation of Bontrager's carbon wheel line-up.

Richard Pestes, founder of PezCyclingNews.com, spent some time riding Bontrager's Aeolus 5.0 wheels during the Amstel Gold cyclosportif ride. While experiencing some of the most scenic routes and climbs Belgium and Holland had to offer, Richard got to know the wheel system very well, as his in-depth review will prove.