Drive 65D 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 65D II is the epitome of aero. It’s deep section rims significantly reduce drag, making it ideal for the flats and rolling hills, weighing just 1460 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:
1) Fusion gold decals, usually shipped in 7-10 days ;
2) Black decals on backorder, usually shipped in 20-30 days ;
US$1,299.00
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Alex –
–Context–
I run these on a 2025 Trek Madone SL 6 Gen 8. They replaced my Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35 carbon wheelset. I ride short, harder sessions on mostly flat coastal roads.
–Buying and delivery–
Customer service was excellent. Replies were fast and clear, shipping updates were transparent, the wheels arrived well packed, and delivery to Australia was quick.
–Experience–
They look the part. Deep, clean, and they drew comments from the mechanics who fitted them. Install was straightforward; the shop had no issues. The difference from the 35 mm wheels was obvious from the first ride. On the flats and descents, they get up to speed with ease and hold pace well. On hills, they perform well given how lightweight they are and how easily they roll. The freehub is audible (but not too overt) and has a distinct sound. I actually like it and find it gives pedestrians a bit of warning when I’m coming through.
My first ride was in a 20kph crosswind. While the rear was fine, the front needed careful control, but that is to be expected given their depth and how lightweight they are. My next ride was in a tailwind, and they did not disappoint. Insanely fast and enjoyable.
–Verdict–
A strong upgrade. Service, packaging, and the way they ride all lined up. Very happy and would reocmmend to anyone looking at deep carbon wheels!
sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –
Hi Alex,
Thank you so much for this thorough, well-structured review!
We’re thrilled to hear these wheels make such a noticeable upgrade from your previous Bontrager set on your Trek Madone. It’s great that you liked our customer support, transparent shipping and solid packaging.
We appreciate your honest notes on crosswind handling, which is typical for deep-section carbon wheels. It makes us happy that the wheels deliver fantastic speed and fun during your coastal rides.
Enjoy all your fast sessions on the roads in Australia.
Henri Schoen –
Hello Elitewheels-Family,
I’m absolutely impressed with these wheels.
I personally ride a 65/65 setup on my own build, and after such a great experience with it, I also bought a 50/65 setup for a friend.
We are both extremely happy with them.
What stands out immediately is the incredibly direct and responsive ride feel.
The wheels feel stiff, precise and very efficient, and the acceleration is fantastic.
Every effort seems to translate instantly into forward motion, which makes the bike feel noticeably fast and lively.
The looks are another big highlight.
Both the 65/65 and the 50/65 setups look absolutely stunning and give the bike a very aggressive, high-end appearance.
The deep 65 mm rims in particular look fantastic at speed.
And then there’s the freehub – we absolutely love it!
It’s loud, distinctive and instantly recognizable.
Definitely not a wheelset for anyone looking for a silent freehub, but for us the sound is part of the experience and gives these wheels even more character.
Overall, we couldn’t be happier with our wheelsets.
Excellent acceleration, a direct and precise riding feel, fantastic looks and that unmistakable freehub sound.
Both the 65/65 and 50/65 combinations have been a great choice and are an absolute pleasure to ride.
Highly recommended!
sunny@elite-wheels.com (store manager) –
Hi Henri,
Thank you so much for this wonderful and detailed review!
It’s amazing that you’re enjoying your 65/65 setup so much that you also got the 50/65 set for your friend. We’re glad you love the responsive ride, stunning deep rims and the unique sound of the freehub.
Hope you and your friend have many fast and memorable rides ahead.
Bojan (verified owner) –
Love the look of those wheels, that looks even better in real life. Can’t wait for warmer weather to go outside and test them. I hope I won’t have any problems with new ratchet design.
valeriob77 (verified owner) –
Avevo letto molte cose interessanti e positive in merito alla ruote di Elitewheels così ho deciso di comparle.
Sono rimato davvero molto soddisfatto: ottima comunicazione con il cliente, imballaggio perfetto e molto curato e le ruote a mio avviso ben centrate e altamente performanti. In questa versione da 65mm sono davvero stupende.
Consiglio l’aquisto per l’alta qualità delle ruote
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!