Drive 50D II
After years of research and development, our engineers have made advancements in maximizing a rim’s durability and responsiveness without adding material, allowing for the next generation of Drive wheels to remain lightweight, despite increasing inner and outer rim widths to support wider tires.
The Drive 50D II was designed to be the perfect all-round racing wheelset, balancing weight and aerodynamics. It weighs just 1300 grams for the pair. The U/V-shaped rim profile improves lateral airflow, increasing stability on fast descents and in windy conditions.
In addition to optimizing the rim design, the second-generation Drive wheels feature several upgrades: a hooked rim for improved aerodynamics, comfort, and traction; high-quality S&S ceramic bearings; 4.5mm carbon spokes; and our one-of-a-kind Kinetic hub with a conical ratchet design.
– Intended Use: Road
– Carbon Spoke Wheelset
– Disc Brake Wheelset
– Brake Interface: Center Lock by default
– Axle: Thru axle by default
*Availability Status: Usually shipped in 7-10 days.
US$1,299.00
Which freehub should I choose?
| Rim | |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
| Tire Compatibility | Clincher/ Tubeless |
| Bead Type | Hooked |
| Rim Depth | 50mm |
| Inner Width | 23mm |
| Outer Width | 31mm |
| Other | |
| Rim Finish | Glossy Marbling Black |
| Extras | Rim tape(Installed), Tubeless Valves(Installed), Spokes(4) |
| Weight (Pair) | 1300±30g (without tubeless valves and rim tape) |
| Rider Weight Limit | 270lbs/120kg |
| Compatible Tire Sizes | 700 x 28-45C |
| Recommended Tire Sizes | 700 x 28-30C |
| Certification | UCI Approved, CE Certified |
| Hub | |
| Front Hub Spacing | 12x100mm |
| Rear Hub Spacing | 12x142mm |
| Bearing | S&S Ceramic |
| Brake Compatibility | Disc (Center Lock) |
| Freehub Type | Ratchet |
| Freehub Compatibility | Shimano / SRAM XDR |
| Spoke | |
| Front Spoke Pattern | 3X/Radial (2:1) |
| Rear Spoke Pattern | 1X/3X (1:2) |
| Spoke Count | 21F/24R |
| Spoke Type | Carbon Spoke (4.5mm) |
| Nipple Type | Alloy Secure Lock |
| Spare Spokes | 4PCS |
RIM
Drive II wheelsets feature wider, 23mm inner widths and 31mm outer widths, making them aerodynamically optimized for 28c and 30c tires. Wider tires allow for a more comfortable ride, as they can be run at lower pressures. The wider inner rim width gives wider tires a better shape, improving grip and comfort, while the 31mm external widths improve the overall aerodynamics when paired with 28mm or 30mm tires, which are now the norm in road cycling.
What makes our clincher, tubeless-ready rims unique is that we use a hooked design. We see the benefits and drawbacks of standard hooked as well as hookless rims and have found a way to offer the best of both worlds. Our hooked design allows for the aerodynamic, durability, and optimal tire shape that hookless rims provide, with the security, tire compatibility, and ability to run higher pressures that a clincher can offer.
Despite the increase in widths, we were able to keep the same weights as the original Drive wheelsets. This was accomplished in part due to our new advancements in our UNI carbon fiber layup technology.
SPOKES
In the Drive II wheels, we are using 4.5mm aero bladed carbon spokes. As opposed bonded carbon spokes, ours are as easily replaceable as their steel counterparts. Each spoke weighs roughly 3 grams each. In our laboratory testing, they have proven to be 8% more laterally stiff than steel spoke, leading to more efficient power transfer when riding, saving you watts.
The carbon spokes on the Drive II wheelsets do not experience spoke twist, meaning they will always remain in the most aerodynamic position, guaranteeing you always get the same high level of performance. Our carbon spokes have been proven reliable and durable for over three years in the pro peloton by our sponsored UCI ProTeam and Continental teams.
KINETIC RATCHET HUB
The Drive II road wheelsets features our brand new, Kinetic hub, which uses a 50T star ratchet mechanism,instead of the previous pawl-ratchet mechanism. Kinetic’s ratchets are machined in a conical shape, allowing for increased engagement surface area which increases longevity. A new, stronger spring reduces the likelihood of skipping and slipping, ensuring a consistent riding experience.
The hub also features a new waterproof seal reducing the likelihood of ingress. A stronger spring has also been chosen, which significantly reduces the incidence of ratchets slipping and skipping when pedaling.
Just like all of our other designs, the Kinetic hub is made by us using 5-axis CNC machines. High-grade precision S&S ceramic bearings were chosen to improve their lifespan and reduce rolling resistance, saving you precious watts. While having high quality bearings is important, a perfect bearing seat fit is essential for optimal performance. Our CNC machines precisely machine bearing seats to 0.02mm tolerances, guaranteeing exceptionally low rolling resistance and improving longevity.
TESTING
Laboratory Tests
Each wheelset undergoes more than 20 laboratory tests at our factory, covering durability, longevity, and stiffness. We also ensure every wheel passes the UCI Vertical Impact Test, certifying it for use in top-tier professional racing.
Silverstone Wind Tunnel Test
We tested the Drive II at the Silverstone Engineering Hub in the UK. The results showed a 2.84% reduction in CdA (Coefficient of Drag Area), translating to less air resistance and higher speed at the same power output. At a -15° yaw angle, the Drive 50D II saved 5.2 watts compared to its predecessor at the same speed.
CFD Simulation & Real-World Testing
In addition to lab testing, we place a strong focus on aerodynamics and real-world performance. Our engineers run hundreds of hours of CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations during the design phase to optimize aerodynamics before building the first prototype.
We also conduct extensive real-world testing with our in-house team and sponsored UCI pro cycling teams. Their feedback, based on hundreds of thousands of kilometers of riding experience with various wheelsets, helps us continuously refine and improve our products.
Which brands’ freehubs are compatible with Drive wheelsets?+
When should I choose the Shimano MSR 12S freehub option?+
Which cassettes require the 1.85mm spacer?+
Can I use disc brake wheels on my QR (quick release) compatible frame?+
Why don't our disc brake wheelsets come with thru-axles?+
Is there an internal nipple option?+
Can I change to 6-bolt?+
Are ceramic bearings easily broken?+
What does the rider weight limit include?+
What tire pressures should I run?+
How strong are your carbon rims? What happens if I break one?+
Where can I find information on ordering and shipping?+
Essential Safety Information+
What happens if a carbon spoke breaks?+
Are carbon spokes covered under warranty?+
8 reviews for Drive 50D II
Related products
US$1,399.00
US$1,399.00
US$1,399.00
-
US$1,189.00
Riccardo (verified owner) –
I’ve been using these wheels for about a year.
After testing various brands, I can say they’re among the best I’ve ever used!!
Rigid, extremely smooth, and incredibly light considering the 50mm profile, with a wide rim that offers advantages.
I recommend this to everyone, a great product!!!
sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –
Hi Riccardo,
Thank you for your wonderful one‑year usage review.
We’re delighted these 50 mm wheels stand out among the brands you have tested. Happy to hear you love their rigidity, smooth rolling, light weight and benefits from the wide rim.
Enjoy many more great miles ahead!
Mattia (verified owner) –
Just a quick note: I only tested them yesterday on a 40 km ride, but the difference compared to my old Vision Metron 40 SL DB is obvious. Comfort and stability are noticeably better, they roll really well, and accelerations feel much smoother.
Surprisingly, it also seems to me that they handle crosswinds better.
At 35/40 km/h you can clearly feel that these wheels perform better.
So far I’m really happy with them, honestly way more than I expected.
I’ll see how they hold up over time once I’ve done a lot more km on them.
Conor (verified owner) –
The Drive 2 50D are the lightest and fastest wheels I have ever used. They represent exceptional value for money and Elitewheels’ customer service has been excellent.
Themartinpaseka –
The best wheels I’ve ever had. Amazing weight (very light), high-quality workmanship and that sound… it’s truly breathtaking. In this price range, no one can beat EliteWheels. The design is also very well done. Finally, the wheels have three logos (and not just two, hahaha). It creates a beautiful effect when driving faster. A truly high-quality wheelset for a great price. Thank you for your work, and keep making such great wheels! Martin
sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –
Hi Themartinpaseka,
Thank you so much for your incredibly enthusiastic feedback—this made our day! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear these are the best wheels you’ve ever had, from their amazing lightweight design and high-quality workmanship to that breathtaking hub sound.
It means the world to us that you think we’re unbeatable in this price range, and we love that you noticed the little design detail of three logos (instead of two!) creating such a cool effect when you’re riding fast. We’re so proud to deliver a high-quality wheelset at a great value, and your kind words about our work mean everything.
Thanks for choosing Elitewheels, and we’ll absolutely keep making great wheels—enjoy every single ride on yours!
Egidijus (verified owner) –
Just received my wheelset, impressions after the first ride are great. I was impressed how fast it is, climbing was noticeably easier than with my old DT swiss erc 1600 dicut which is roughly 300g heavier. I was wondering if stiffness will reduce the comfort on rough roads but to my surprise the difference from old wheelset was marginal. Next to very positive ride feeling it also looks amazing. Hopefully durability of the wheelset will last as well.
sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –
Hi Egidijus,
Thank you so much for sharing your first ride impressions—we’re thrilled to hear they’re so positive!
It’s awesome to know the wheels feel fast, make climbing noticeably easier (especially compared to your heavier DT Swiss ERC 1600 Dicut), and that the stiffness doesn’t compromise comfort on rough roads (what a nice surprise!). We’re also glad you love how they look—design and performance go hand in hand for us.
Fingers crossed the durability lives up to your expectations, and we hope every ride only makes you happier with your new wheelset. Thanks for choosing Elitewheels!
Victor Patraman (verified owner) –
5 star service by Sunny. Dive 50 II, is my second purchase after G45.
Now completes Trek Mad1 SLR9 setup.
Arrived a week before Bodensee 300km platinum tour, enabled me to complete it in 10h 6 minutes, perfect balance between weight and aero.
Nice and Light, only 1339g with rim tape. Yes there are lighter on the market, but for given price of just $1000 it’s a steal.
Paired with TPU types Pirelli RS + DA 11-34, saves about 587g vs stock Bontrager Aelous pro51 with Ultegra 11-30.
Would love to see a collaboration between Elite & Evolve frameset and some carbon handcranks. To have one trustworthy shop with more products, since your current quality to price is phenomenal.
Keep it up such standard please.
Elitewheels (store manager) –
Hi Victor, thank you for sharing your detailed feedback and for choosing Elitewheels again after your G45. We’re thrilled to hear that the Drive 50D II supported you in completing the Bodensee 300km Platinum Tour, and we truly appreciate your high recognition. We’ll continue to deliver products that meet the highest standards of quality and value.
Tomáš Pála (verified owner) –
I have ridden 2000 km with the bikes so far. I am very satisfied. The bikes are very fast and look good.👍
Elitewheels (store manager) –
Hi Tomáš, thank you for sharing your feedback! We’re glad to hear that you’ve already ridden 2000 km with the Drive 50D II wheels and that they’ve been fast and reliable for you. We really appreciate your trust and support, and we wish you many more smooth and enjoyable rides ahead!
valeriob77 (verified owner) –
Venendo dalla versione da 65mm ho deciso di aquistare anche il set da 50mm per la seconda bici
Qualità delle ruote eccelente, ottima centratura e montaggio senza nessun problema.
Risolto in tempi brevissimi un piccolo problema con l’ordine; l’assienza clienti è stata davvero professionale e cortese avvertendomi con anticipo del problema e proponendo subito una soluzione per farmi arrivare le ruote il prima possibile
Consiglio l’aquisto per l’alta qualità delle ruote e la grande attenzione al cliente finale.
Elitewheels (store manager) –
Grazie mille per il tuo continuo supporto e per aver dedicato del tempo a condividere la tua esperienza! Siamo felicissimi di sapere che ti stai trovando bene con entrambe le ruote da 65mm e 50mm. Il tuo riconoscimento della qualità dei nostri prodotti e del nostro servizio clienti significa davvero molto per noi.
Continueremo a lavorare con impegno per offrire ruote di altissima qualità e un servizio eccellente.
Grazie ancora per la tua fiducia e per la raccomandazione!