Princeton CarbonWorks (PCW) has unveiled the Wake 6560 Evolution II, a cutting-edge aero wheelset meticulously engineered to adhere to the Union Cycliste Internationale’s (UCI) new 65mm rim depth regulation, effective January 1, 2026. This sixth iteration of PCW’s flagship wheelset seamlessly integrates a 65mm deep profile with a remarkably light system weight of 1250 grams in its lightest configuration. (cyclingreview.nl)
Adhering to the 65mm UCI Regulation
The UCI’s recent mandate limits rim depths to a maximum of 65mm for mass-start road races, aiming to enhance safety by mitigating crosswind sensitivity and steering moments associated with deeper rims. Brands previously offering wheels with depths exceeding this limit are now compelled to adjust their offerings to remain compliant. PCW’s Wake 6560 Evolution II, with its distinctive wavy profile oscillating between 60mm and 65mm, not only meets this requirement but also maintains superior aerodynamic performance. (cyclingreview.nl)
Optimized Design and Aerodynamics
Departing from traditional design methodologies, PCW prioritized tire integration by first analyzing actual inflated tire profiles across a range of 23 to 32mm tires from various brands. These profiles were 3D-scanned and subjected to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analyses in collaboration with experts Luca Oggiano and Themis Petridi of NablaFlow. The objective was to identify the most efficient combinations of tire size, shape, and rim design. The culmination of this extensive research is a rim optimized for a 28mm tire, featuring an internal width of 22mm and a maximum external width of 33mm. According to Oggiano, the Wake 6560 Evolution II is “the fastest UCI-legal wheelset we have tested in the wind tunnel.” (cyclingreview.nl)
Enhanced Performance and Durability
Despite its deep 65mm profile, the Wake 6560 Evolution II achieves a system weight of just 1250 grams in its lightest configuration, thanks to an innovative carbon layup that reduces rim weight from 470 grams in the previous model to 420 grams. This weight reduction is achieved without compromising impact resistance, as the rims withstand impacts exceeding 120 joules. Additionally, the rims are pre-balanced to minimize vibrations and harmonics, and the non-drilled, tubeless-ready rim bed eliminates the need for tubeless tape, further reducing rotational weight. (cyclingreview.nl)
Specifications
- Rim Depth: 60–65mm (sinusoidal profile)
- Internal Rim Width: 22mm (hooked)
- External Rim Width: 33mm
- Rim Weight: 420 grams
- Lightest System Weight: 1250 grams (Tactic TR01V2)
- Optimal Tire Size: 28mm
- Impact Resistance: >120 joules
- Spoke Type: Steel (standard)
- Rim Bed: Non-drilled, tubeless-ready
- Includes: Tubeless valves, padded wheel bag
Hub Options and Pricing
The Wake 6560 Evolution II is available with six different hubs and ten color options across three price categories:
- White Industries CLD – 1455 grams – from €3700
- DT Swiss 240 EXP – 1345 grams – from €4200
- Tactic TR02 – 1320 grams – from €4200
- Chris King R45D Ceramic – 1435 grams – from €4900
- DT Swiss 180 EXP – 1320 grams – from €4950
- Tactic TR01V2 – 1250 grams – from €4950
The most premium configuration, featuring a Tactic TR01V2 hub in Gloss Chameleon, is priced at €5400. (cyclingreview.nl)
Color Options and Availability
In addition to the six standard colors—Matte Black, Gloss Black, Matte White, Gloss White, Gloss Gold, and Gloss Chrome—the Evolution II series introduces four new finishes: Gloss Sand, Gloss Cobalt, Gloss Red, and Gloss Chameleon. The Wake 6560 Evolution II is available immediately through local dealers, distributors, and via princetoncarbon.com. (cyclingreview.nl)
For a visual overview and first impressions of the Wake 6560 Evolution II, you can watch the following video:
First Impressions: Princeton CarbonWorks Wake 6560 Evolution