Bola EXP 45R Carbon Disc Wheelset 700C – 45mm Deep, 1280g, DT Swiss 240s, Tubeless-Ready
Bola EXP 45R Carbon Disc Wheelset 700C – 45mm Deep, 1280g, DT Swiss 240s, Tubeless-Ready
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The Bola EXP 45R Carbon Disc Wheelset offers a balanced combination of lightweight T800 UD carbon construction, U-shaped 45mm rim depth, and DT Swiss 240s hubs. Designed for road and gravel cyclists seeking reliable tubeless-ready performance, this 1280g wheelset delivers stable handling, versatile tire fit, and certified durability for daily training or endurance events.
Key Features & Specs
- Rim Depth: 45mm U-shaped for optimized aero and crosswind stability
- Internal Rim Width: 21mm or 24mm (selectable)—accommodates 28–32c tubeless tires
- External Rim Width: 28mm or 30mm matched to modern tire standards
- Material: T800 unidirectional matte carbon fiber, REACH and ISO 4210-7 certified
- Wheelset Weight: 1280g (+/- 30g, excluding rotors/tires, pair)
- Hub System: Genuine DT Swiss 240s, 36T Star Ratchet, Center Lock disc, 12x100/12x142mm or QR compatible
- Spokes: Sapim CX Ray aero spokes—precision tensioned for stiffness and durability
- Tubeless Compatibility: Tubeless-ready rim bed, supports easy setup and wide pressure range
- Certifications: ISO 4210-7, REACH compliance for global safety and environmental assurance
- Warranty: 24-month warranty covering rim, hub & spokes (see Bola Warranty Policy)
How it Compares
| Feature | Bola EXP 45R | SL1200cs 50D Ultralight |
|---|---|---|
| Rim Depth | 45mm (U-shape) | 50mm |
| Internal Width | 21/24mm (selectable) | 21mm |
| External Width | 28/30mm | 28mm |
| Weight (pair) | 1280g | 1251g |
| Material | T800 UD carbon | T800/T1000 high modulus carbon |
| Hub | DT Swiss 240s, 36T ratchet | Upgradable 36T star ratchet (OEM hubs) |
| Spokes | Sapim CX Ray (steel) | 4.5mm width carbon spokes |
| Tubeless | Tubeless-ready, hooked rim | Hooked tubeless |
| Certifications | ISO 4210-7, REACH | Not specified |
| Warranty | 24 months global | Not specified |
Recommended Use Cases
- Road bike performance upgrades requiring reduced rotational mass for improved acceleration and climbing efficiency.
- Gravel adventure riders seeking stable tubeless setups, wide rim compatibility, and consistent hub engagement for mixed-surface routes.
- Amateur racers and weekend gran fondo participants targeting speed, reliability, and comfort on variable road conditions.
- B2B partners or bike shops requiring certified, cost-effective carbon wheelsets for aftermarket and OEM builds.
- Long-distance endurance cyclists demanding 24-month warranty coverage and robust after-sales support for high-mileage training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any difference between 40mm and 45mm rim profile for road or gravel riding?
Yes. A 45mm deep rim like the Bola EXP 45R provides marginally better aerodynamic efficiency and crosswind stability than 40mm while maintaining similar handling, especially when paired with 28–32c tires. For mixed terrain, both offer balanced aero and comfort; 45mm is prefered for road with wind exposure, while 40mm can offer slightly lighter weight for frequent elevation changes.
How does a 1280g 700C carbon wheelset compare to a 40mm carbon disc wheelset for climbing?
The 1280g Bola EXP 45R is competitive with top 40mm carbon disc wheelsets in weight, offering rapid acceleration on climbs and stability for descents. Most aero/40mm competitors in this segment weigh from 1250–1400g. The Bola 45R achieves this with proven durability and hub engagement, suitable for demanding climbing scenarios.
What are the benefits of using a 28mm or 30mm wide carbon rim for tubeless tires?
Wider rim profiles (28–30mm external, 21/24mm internal) offer improved sidewall support for modern 28–32c tubeless tires, reducing tire squirm and supporting lower running pressures. This results in better cornering grip, comfort, and reduced risk of pinch flats—especially important for road plus or gravel setups.
Are DT240s hub carbon wheelsets reliable for long-distance endurance cycling?
DT Swiss 240s hubs are highly regarded for their serviceable 36T ratchet system, low rolling resistance, and durability. Paired with Sapim CX Ray spokes and Bola’s 2-year warranty, this wheelset offers dependable performance for high-mileage endurance events and daily training with easy maintenance.
Is a 45mm deep carbon wheelset with Sapim CX Ray spokes worth the price for aero gains?
For riders seeking a balance between aerodynamics, climbing efficiency, and long-term reliability, a 45mm rim depth with Sapim CX Ray aero spokes provides measurable reduction in drag without significant weight penalty. When compared to higher-priced flagship wheels, you gain near-identical aero benefits with certified durability at a more approachable investment.
