DT Swiss ARC Aero Wheels Gen III
26.06.25 10:20 8552025-06-26T10:20:00+02:00Text: NoPain/PM (translated by AI)Photos: DT SwissThe third generation of the ARC 1100/1400 DICUT DB wheelsets combines modern aerodynamics, precise handling, and high-quality hub technology – available with three different rim heights or as a disc version for maximum efficiency in time trials and triathlons.26.06.25 10:20 9042025-06-26T10:20:00+02:00DT Swiss ARC Aero Wheels Gen III
26.06.25 10:20 9042025-06-26T10:20:00+02:00 NoPain/PM (translated by AI) DT SwissThe third generation of the ARC 1100/1400 DICUT DB wheelsets combines modern aerodynamics, precise handling, and high-quality hub technology – available with three different rim heights or as a disc version for maximum efficiency in time trials and triathlons.26.06.25 10:20 9042025-06-26T10:20:00+02:00
In the high-speed road bike world, there are no handouts. If you want to ride at the front, you have to deliver – technically, aerodynamically, and visually. DT Swiss understands this and is entering the race with the third generation of its ARC wheels, its most refined aero weapons to date: wider, taller, lighter, faster.
What's new?
• 22 mm internal width: optimized for the 29 mm AERO 111 tire for optimal grip and speed
• V-shape profile: aerodynamically compensates for the wider rim
• Three rim heights: 55 mm, 65 mm, or 85 mm, depending on usage and riding style
• WTS technology: coordinated wheel-tire system for maximum performance
The lead is taken.
Not given
ARC Generation 3 - Wider, higher, lighter & faster
Wider Rims
It’s no longer a secret that increasingly wider tires are being used in professional cycling. To ride these optimally, an appropriate internal rim width is necessary. The new ARC rims feature a 22 mm internal width – perfectly matched to the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire, which has established itself as the new standard. And all of this without compromising aerodynamics.Wider Rims
It’s no longer a secret that increasingly wider tires are being used in professional cycling. To ride these optimally, an appropriate internal rim width is necessary. The new ARC rims feature a 22 mm internal width – perfectly matched to the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire, which has established itself as the new standard. And all of this without compromising aerodynamics.
V-Shape
A larger inner rim width directly impacts the frontal area of the wheel, and this is exactly where the V-profile comes into play. It compensates for the wider construction and optimizes aerodynamic drag. Wind tunnel tests show: This shape ensures the lowest measured baseline aerodynamic drag. At the same time, it reduces steering torque, guaranteeing a smooth and controlled riding experience.V-Shape
A larger inner rim width directly impacts the frontal area of the wheel, and this is exactly where the V-profile comes into play. It compensates for the wider construction and optimizes aerodynamic drag. Wind tunnel tests show: This shape ensures the lowest measured baseline aerodynamic drag. At the same time, it reduces steering torque, guaranteeing a smooth and controlled riding experience.
Three New Rim Heights
With three different rim heights, DT Swiss caters to a variety of riding preferences: Those who want to go fast but aren't afraid of steeper climbs should opt for the 55 mm version. The 65 mm deep rims, with their aero-optimized profile, are perfect for fast sprints and flat terrain. And for maximum speed and minimal air resistance, ideal for triathlons or time trials, the 85 mm variant is available.Three New Rim Heights
With three different rim heights, DT Swiss caters to a variety of riding preferences: Those who want to go fast but aren't afraid of steeper climbs should opt for the 55 mm version. The 65 mm deep rims, with their aero-optimized profile, are perfect for fast sprints and flat terrain. And for maximum speed and minimal air resistance, ideal for triathlons or time trials, the 85 mm variant is available.
Aero-optimized Components
No detail has been spared. Thanks to the DT Swiss modular system and Swiss expertise, all components have been perfectly matched to each other – with the goal of creating a wheelset that is not only aerodynamically optimized but also offers top riding performance. The aero-optimized spokes, reduced to 20 at the front, slightly reduce air resistance while also saving weight.Aero-optimized Components
No detail has been spared. Thanks to the DT Swiss modular system and Swiss expertise, all components have been perfectly matched to each other – with the goal of creating a wheelset that is not only aerodynamically optimized but also offers top riding performance. The aero-optimized spokes, reduced to 20 at the front, slightly reduce air resistance while also saving weight.
In the wind tunnel
The new ARC wheels were developed based on the AERO+ concept – with a focus on minimal air resistance, precise handling, and maximum efficiency. The centerpiece is the perfectly tuned wheel-tire system combined with the AERO 111 tire. In addition to the reduced base air resistance thanks to the V-profile, the special tire profile with the so-called vortex generators significantly enhances the sail effect in crosswinds.
This perfection is clearly noticeable on the road: The steering moment increases evenly in crosswinds without provoking sudden reactions.
For the rider, this results in controlled, predictable handling – and thus the necessary confidence to remain stable in the aero position, even in crosswinds.
Rotational Resistance: Comparison Results
The Swiss were able to precisely determine the impact of a reduced number of spokes on rotational resistance using their specially developed test rig. This describes the additional friction that arises when a wheel moves through the air and its rotating components create additional resistance. Measurements were conducted at 45 km/h, both head-on (0° yaw angle) and under crosswind conditions (10° yaw angle).
The results speak for themselves: At 0°, air resistance was reduced by 0.2 watts (5.5%), and at 10° even by 0.5 watts (12%). The measurement accuracy was below 0.1 watts. These improvements were made possible by a lower number of spokes and shorter spokes, the latter thanks to the 5 mm higher rim profile of the new ARC 1100 DICUT 55.
Further technical information is available on the DT Swiss AERO+ Technology pageRotational Resistance: Comparison Results
The Swiss were able to precisely determine the impact of a reduced number of spokes on rotational resistance using their specially developed test rig. This describes the additional friction that arises when a wheel moves through the air and its rotating components create additional resistance. Measurements were conducted at 45 km/h, both head-on (0° yaw angle) and under crosswind conditions (10° yaw angle).
The results speak for themselves: At 0°, air resistance was reduced by 0.2 watts (5.5%), and at 10° even by 0.5 watts (12%). The measurement accuracy was below 0.1 watts. These improvements were made possible by a lower number of spokes and shorter spokes, the latter thanks to the 5 mm higher rim profile of the new ARC 1100 DICUT 55.
Further technical information is available on the DT Swiss AERO+ Technology page
ARC Aero-Performance in the Wind Tunnel
Displayed here are the aerodynamic drag values for all rim heights. Especially at higher yaw angles, the so-called sail effect becomes evident – the drag decreases measurably and can even convert into forward thrust at certain angles.
All ARC Aero wheelsets reach their minimal drag at yaw angles of approximately -16° to -18° or +16° to +18°. In these crosswind situations, the rider requires less wattage for the same speed.
DT Swiss additionally tested the ARC 85 with AERO 111 tires in two different widths. Both variants showed excellent values, both in terms of baseline frontal drag and the sail effect. The 26 mm AERO 111 tire, in particular, was able to enhance this effect further and even generated a negative drag of up to -17.3 watts at extreme yaw angles.ARC Aero-Performance in the Wind Tunnel
Displayed here are the aerodynamic drag values for all rim heights. Especially at higher yaw angles, the so-called sail effect becomes evident – the drag decreases measurably and can even convert into forward thrust at certain angles.
All ARC Aero wheelsets reach their minimal drag at yaw angles of approximately -16° to -18° or +16° to +18°. In these crosswind situations, the rider requires less wattage for the same speed.
DT Swiss additionally tested the ARC 85 with AERO 111 tires in two different widths. Both variants showed excellent values, both in terms of baseline frontal drag and the sail effect. The 26 mm AERO 111 tire, in particular, was able to enhance this effect further and even generated a negative drag of up to -17.3 watts at extreme yaw angles.
The ARC 1100 DICUT 85 WTS with 26 mm AERO 111 front wheel tire is the fastest setup of the new ARC series.
ARC Steering Moment (Steering Torque)
There is no question that higher rim profiles reduce air resistance and thus provide more speed, but at the same time, they also create stronger steering torque. The central challenge in developing the new ARC wheels was to optimally balance this relationship between aero performance and steering stability.
The graphic shows the differences in steering torque at yaw angles from -20° to +20°, measured in the wind tunnel parallel to air resistance. The different gradient values make it clear: ARC 55 WTS and ARC 65 WTS exhibit comparatively low absolute steering torques, while the ARC 85 WTS shows a steeper curve due to the higher rim.
In a direct comparison with competing products of the same rim height, the advantage of the ARC wheels becomes clearly visible.ARC Steering Moment (Steering Torque)
There is no question that higher rim profiles reduce air resistance and thus provide more speed, but at the same time, they also create stronger steering torque. The central challenge in developing the new ARC wheels was to optimally balance this relationship between aero performance and steering stability.
The graphic shows the differences in steering torque at yaw angles from -20° to +20°, measured in the wind tunnel parallel to air resistance. The different gradient values make it clear: ARC 55 WTS and ARC 65 WTS exhibit comparatively low absolute steering torques, while the ARC 85 WTS shows a steeper curve due to the higher rim.
In a direct comparison with competing products of the same rim height, the advantage of the ARC wheels becomes clearly visible.
ARC 55 – Aerodynamic Drag & Handling Compared to Competitors
The ARC 1100 DICUT 55 achieves the lowest measured drag value in terms of frontal baseline aerodynamic resistance. The sail effect at extreme yaw angles is somewhat more moderate compared to some competitors. However, this brings a decisive advantage: more control during the so-called stall, i.e., when the airflow separates from the rim. This improved rideability is evident in this comparison through the lowest steering torque and a particularly flat curve progression.*
When the ARC 55 is additionally combined with the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire (dashed line), another advantage emerges: a sail-induced drag reduction while maintaining consistent and well-controlled steering torque across the entire yaw angle range.
* For a fair comparison basis, all wheelsets were tested with the same 28 mm wide GP 5000s TR tire. The ARC 1100 DICUT 55 was also tested with the 29 mm AERO 111 tire.ARC 55 – Aerodynamic Drag & Handling Compared to Competitors
The ARC 1100 DICUT 55 achieves the lowest measured drag value in terms of frontal baseline aerodynamic resistance. The sail effect at extreme yaw angles is somewhat more moderate compared to some competitors. However, this brings a decisive advantage: more control during the so-called stall, i.e., when the airflow separates from the rim. This improved rideability is evident in this comparison through the lowest steering torque and a particularly flat curve progression.*
When the ARC 55 is additionally combined with the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire (dashed line), another advantage emerges: a sail-induced drag reduction while maintaining consistent and well-controlled steering torque across the entire yaw angle range.
* For a fair comparison basis, all wheelsets were tested with the same 28 mm wide GP 5000s TR tire. The ARC 1100 DICUT 55 was also tested with the 29 mm AERO 111 tire.
ARC 65 – Air Resistance & Handling in Comparison with Competitors
The ARC 1100 DICUT 65 is the overall best-performing wheelset in comparison with competitors of similar rim height. With a clear development focus on frontal air resistance, the 65 mm rim achieves significantly lower baseline drag.
In rare yaw angles below -12° or above +12°, other wheelsets may create a slightly stronger sailing effect – however, this comes at the cost of up to 53% higher steering torque. This has a particularly negative impact on ride behavior in unpleasant crosswinds.*
This exact aspect was taken into account during the development of the new ARC generation. The result: the lowest weighted steering torque measured across the entire competitive comparison.
When the 29 mm AERO 111 tire is combined with the ARC 65 (dashed line), the sailing effect can be further increased while maintaining a moderately rising steering torque.
* To enable a fair comparison between the different wheelsets, all models were tested with the identical 28 mm wide GP 5000s TR tire. The ARC 1100 DICUT 65 was additionally tested with the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire.ARC 65 – Air Resistance & Handling in Comparison with Competitors
The ARC 1100 DICUT 65 is the overall best-performing wheelset in comparison with competitors of similar rim height. With a clear development focus on frontal air resistance, the 65 mm rim achieves significantly lower baseline drag.
In rare yaw angles below -12° or above +12°, other wheelsets may create a slightly stronger sailing effect – however, this comes at the cost of up to 53% higher steering torque. This has a particularly negative impact on ride behavior in unpleasant crosswinds.*
This exact aspect was taken into account during the development of the new ARC generation. The result: the lowest weighted steering torque measured across the entire competitive comparison.
When the 29 mm AERO 111 tire is combined with the ARC 65 (dashed line), the sailing effect can be further increased while maintaining a moderately rising steering torque.
* To enable a fair comparison between the different wheelsets, all models were tested with the identical 28 mm wide GP 5000s TR tire. The ARC 1100 DICUT 65 was additionally tested with the 29 mm wide AERO 111 tire.
ARC 85 – Air Resistance & Handling in a Competitive Comparison
Compared to other wheelsets with rim heights of 80 mm or more, the new ARC 1100 DICUT 85 is clearly the most powerful model – both in terms of air resistance and steering moment.
The ARC 85 is particularly impressive in the area of frontal baseline air resistance: The airflow encounters less resistance, thanks to the V-profile of the rim combined with a 25 mm wide tire. While the next best competitor has only 0.5 watts less in weighted drag, its steering moment is significantly higher by 34%. All other competing models exhibit an average of 2.3 watts more air resistance (+27%) and an 18% higher steering moment.*
Conclusion: The ARC 85 scores with particularly low baseline drag, consistently tuned for a tire width of 25 mm. Using a 26 mm AERO 111 tire on the front wheel (dashed line) can further reduce aerodynamic resistance, but leads to a moderately higher steering moment within a well-controllable range.
* For a fair comparison basis, all wheelsets were tested with the same GP 5000s TR tire in 25 mm. The ARC 1100 DICUT 85 was also tested with the 26 mm AERO 111 tire.ARC 85 – Air Resistance & Handling in a Competitive Comparison
Compared to other wheelsets with rim heights of 80 mm or more, the new ARC 1100 DICUT 85 is clearly the most powerful model – both in terms of air resistance and steering moment.
The ARC 85 is particularly impressive in the area of frontal baseline air resistance: The airflow encounters less resistance, thanks to the V-profile of the rim combined with a 25 mm wide tire. While the next best competitor has only 0.5 watts less in weighted drag, its steering moment is significantly higher by 34%. All other competing models exhibit an average of 2.3 watts more air resistance (+27%) and an 18% higher steering moment.*
Conclusion: The ARC 85 scores with particularly low baseline drag, consistently tuned for a tire width of 25 mm. Using a 26 mm AERO 111 tire on the front wheel (dashed line) can further reduce aerodynamic resistance, but leads to a moderately higher steering moment within a well-controllable range.
* For a fair comparison basis, all wheelsets were tested with the same GP 5000s TR tire in 25 mm. The ARC 1100 DICUT 85 was also tested with the 26 mm AERO 111 tire.
Overview Weights
| Wheelset | Weight (Set) | Difference* |
|---|---|---|
| ARC 1100 DICUT 85 | 1,669 g | - 86 g |
| ARC 1100 DICUT 65 | 1,511 g | - 158 g |
| ARC 1100 DICUT 55 | 1,471 g | + 6 g |
| ARC 1400 DICUT 85 | 1,772 g | - 56 g |
| ARC 1400 DICUT 65 | 1,619 g | - 125 g |
| ARC 1400 DICUT 55 | 1,549 g | + 6 g |
* Compared to the predecessor
ARC 1100 DICUT DB wheels
With the third generation of the ARC 1100 DICUT DB wheels, DT Swiss presents its most comprehensive aero portfolio to date. The rims feature an internal width of 22 mm, which, in combination with wider tires, allows for improved grip and higher riding comfort. Rim heights of 55 mm, 65 mm, and 85 mm are available, each with a V-profile to maintain aerodynamic properties despite the larger internal width.
The ARC 1100 DICUT 38 model remains part of the lineup as a variant with a 38 mm rim height, catering particularly to riders who prioritize low weight and climbing characteristics.
All models are equipped with the 180 DICUT hub featuring the Ratchet EXP system and SINC ceramic bearings. They are laced with DT aerolite II spokes.
The goal of the revision was to further optimize aerodynamic efficiency, riding stability, and weight balance across various areas of use.
Specs: ARC 1100 DICUT
| Front Wheel | 12 / 100 mm |
| Rear Wheel | 12 / 142 mm |
| Hub | 180 DICUT with 36T Ratchet EXP System |
| Brake Mount | Disc, Center Lock |
| Freehub Options | SRAM XDR, Shimano Road |
| Rim | Carbon, with hooked profile, tubeless ready |
| Rim Dimension | 622 x 22 mm |
| Rim Height | 55 mm, 65 mm, 85 mm |
| Spokes Front | T-Head Spokes DT aerolite, black |
| Spokes Rear | T-Head Spokes DT aerolite, black |
| Nipples | DT Pro Lock hidden aluminum nipples |
| Lacing Front | 20 x 2-cross |
| Lacing Rear | 24 x 2-cross |
| Wheelset Weight | ARC 1100 DICUT 55: from 1,471 g ARC 1100 DICUT 65: from 1,511 g ARC 1100 DICUT 85: from 1,669 g |
| Max. System Weight | 110 kg |
| ASTM Category | Class 1 |
| Included Accessories | SRAM XDR Road Freehub Body Kit, Tubeless Rim Tape (pre-installed), Tubeless Valve, Valve Protector, Wheel Bag |
| Price | from € 2,699.80 |
| Price WTS | from € 2,799.80 |
ARC 1100 DICUT Disc
With the ARC 1100 DICUT Disc, DT Swiss expands its ARC series with an aerodynamically optimized full-carbon disc wheel. It was developed in collaboration with the aero specialists from Swiss Side.
The wheelset is designed for use in time trials or triathlons, particularly on flat to rolling terrain.
The rim features an internal width of 20 mm, making it suitable for wider tires, which reduces rolling resistance and increases riding comfort.
At the core of the disc is the 180 DICUT hub with Ratchet EXP system and SINC ceramic bearings.
As an option, the ARC 1100 DICUT DISC WTS is also available – a coordinated wheel-tire system with a pre-mounted Continental GP 5000 STR in 28 mm, optionally combinable with the AERO 111 tire for further optimization of aerodynamic performance.
Specs: ARC 1100 DICUT Disc
| Rear Wheel | 12 / 142 mm |
| Hub | 180 DICUT with 36T Ratchet EXP System |
| Brake Mount | Disc, Center Lock |
| Freehub Options | SRAM XDR, Shimano Road |
| Rim | Carbon, with hooked profile, tubeless ready |
| Rim Dimension | 622 x 20 mm |
| Rim Height | Disc |
| Weight Rear Wheel | 1,074 g |
| Max. System Weight | 110 kg |
| ASTM Category | Class 1 |
| Included Accessories | SRAM XDR Road Freehub Body Kit, Tubeless Rim Tape (pre-installed), Tubeless Valve, Wheel Bag |
| Price | from € 2,399.90 |
| Price WTS | from € 2,449.90 |
ARC 1400 DICUT DB
The ARC 1400 DICUT DB wheels combine modern aerodynamics with precise handling and efficient power transfer. Like the 1100 series, they are based on the AERO+ rim profiles but are equipped with the slightly more affordable 240 DICUT Aero hubs, which also use the Ratchet EXP freehub system.
Available in four rim heights (38 mm, 55 mm, 65 mm, and 85 mm), the series offers suitable options for various applications.
The spoke assembly is done with DT aero comp II T-Head spokes and hidden aluminum nipples, which reduces both weight and air resistance.
• ARC 1400 DICUT 85: Designed for high speeds on flat stages.
• ARC 1400 DICUT 65: Versatile aero wheelset for mixed terrain with good crosswind stability.
• ARC 1400 DICUT 55: Developed for technical courses with many directional changes and tight corners.
• ARC 1400 DICUT 38: Lightweight version for mountainous terrain and longer climbs.
The wheel is also optionally available as ARC 1400 DICUT WTS – a matched wheel-tire system with an AERO 111 front tire in 26 mm width and Continental GP 5000 STR in 28 mm on the rear wheel.
Specs: ARC 1400 DICUT DB
| Front Wheel | 12 / 100 mm |
| Rear Wheel | 12 / 142 mm |
| Hub | 240 DICUT with 36T Ratchet EXP System |
| Brake Mount | Disc, Center Lock |
| Freehub Options | SRAM XDR, Shimano Road |
| Rim | Carbon, with hooked profile, tubeless ready |
| Rim Dimension | 622 x 22 mm |
| Rim Height | 55 mm, 65 mm, 85 mm |
| Spokes Front | T-Head Spokes, DT aero comp II, black |
| Spokes Rear | T-Head Spokes, DT aero comp II, black |
| Nipples | DT Pro Lock® hidden aluminum nipples |
| Lacing Front | 20 x 2-cross |
| Lacing Rear | 24 x 2-cross |
| Wheelset Weight | ARC 1400 DICUT 55: from 1,549 g ARC 1400 DICUT 65: from 1,619 g ARC 1400 DICUT 85: from 1,772 g |
| Max. System Weight | 110 kg |
| ASTM Category | Class 1 |
| Included Accessories | SRAM XDR Road Freehub Body Kit, Tubeless Rim Tape (pre-installed), Tubeless Valve, Valve Protector |
| Price | from € 2,149.80 |
| Price WTS | from € 2,249.80 |
The DT Swiss ARC 1100 DICUT DB 55 BLACK wheels are exclusively available as a Wheel Tire System.
ARC 1100 BLACK EDITION
