Cosmic SLR 45: Mavic Moves to a Wider Rim and Ceramic Bearings
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Cosmic SLR 45: Mavic Moves to a Wider Rim and Ceramic Bearings
"For the 2026 Cosmic SLR 45 wheels, Mavic decided to keep the 45mm rim depth but increase the rims' overall width. The width increase means wider tires, which create a smaller overall ground contact patch and result in less rolling resistance. In fact, previous iterations of the Cosmic wheels wouldn't allow for tires wider than 28mm. These new wheels can accommodate a 28mm, 30mm, or 32mm tire. Mavic's recommendation is 30mm."
"The wider rim doesn't mean a significant loss in aerodynamic performance. Mavic designed the 2026 Cosmics with an NACA profile, spending hours testing and perfecting in the wind tunnel. The result is a smooth transition between the rim and tire, reducing turbulence and providing more stability overall. This, combined with a shorter rolling footprint (wider rims/tires), creates an efficient and smooth platform for rolling miles."
"Rather than having a uniform carbon thickness for wheels, Mavic uses its Adaptive Layup in building the new Cosmic SLRs. This allows Mavic to thin the material in certain areas, such as between the spokes. They then add some extra material at the spoke holes, reinforcing and adding a touch of stiffness to the wheel. The reduced mass increases performance, durability, and ride feel, all while saving up to 70g per wheel."
Mavic keeps a 45mm rim depth while increasing rim width to 23mm inner and 32mm outer, allowing wider tires and improved rolling characteristics. The wider rims accommodate 28mm, 30mm, or 32mm tires, with a 30mm tire recommended. Wider tires create a smaller ground contact patch and reduce rolling resistance. The 2026 Cosmics use a NACA rim profile optimized in wind-tunnel testing for a smooth rim-to-tire transition, reduced turbulence, and improved stability. Weight is 1480g. Adaptive Layup reduces carbon thickness in select areas while reinforcing spoke holes, saving up to 70g per wheel. Ceramic bearings reduce friction by 28%.
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