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Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

16.04.24 08:34 772Text: Vanesa (translated by AI)Photos: Erwin HaidenLong-term review of one of the last remaining aero carbon wheelsets for rim brakes in wet conditions, cold, and on salted roads.16.04.24 08:34 909

Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

16.04.24 08:34 909 Vanesa (translated by AI) Erwin Haiden
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Long-term review of one of the last remaining aero carbon wheelsets for rim brakes in wet conditions, cold, and on salted roads.16.04.24 08:34 909

Rim brakes in 2024? Absolutely! Despite the trend towards disc brakes, there is still a demand for high-quality rim brake wheels – and the Rose RC-Fifty Carbon Rim Wheelset is a prime example of the combination of tradition and sentimentality in cycling, while at the same time embodying the modern zeitgeist in terms of aerodynamics and performance.

Rim brake meets carbon meets salted roads

Since December, I have been the happy tester of these beauties, and my testing course included all conditions - wind, rain, and snow, from icy valleys and exposed, wind-prone heights to idyllic, forest-lined country roads and steep mountain passes.

I paid particular attention to the braking performance and controllability under all conditions. As a mountain goat who loves both climbing and descending, the reliability of the brakes in wet and cold weather was just as crucial to me as the maneuverability during fast descents and strong crosswinds.
I also planned to test the wheels on courses with little wind before venturing into the gusty heights. Some Bikeboard readers may now smile at the rim height of a relatively modest 47 mm. What is a small step (or a relatively flat profile) for the (average-sized) humanity represents a bigger hurdle (or a relatively high profile) for me with my 158.

 While by now even the last pro has switched to discs, are we testing wheels with rim brakes? 

Yes. Exactly!
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Since the test conditions and personal predispositions have thus been reasonably clarified, now to the matter at hand:

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

The RC Series: R-Thirty to RC-Sixty

Versatility is the keyword for the Rose R(C)-Series. Whether a high or low rim profile is preferred, carbon or aluminum - the Bocholt company's wheelset portfolio covers a wide range of preferences and requirements.

It starts with the more affordable R-Thirty, a more economical aluminum wheelset with a versatile orientation. Whether it's for a marathon racer, an explosive cyclocrosser, a zippy gravel bike, or a travel-ready randonneur – the RC-Thirty is a true jack-of-all-trades.
Next up are the all-rounders RC-Forty and RC-Fifty, which are also available as a mixed set (front 40 mm - rear 50 mm) and offer improved aerodynamic properties. At the end of this series is the big aero sister RC-Sixty, which is specifically designed for flat courses and time trials.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Rose's Promise

An outstanding plus that immediately catches the eye is Rose's crash replacement terms, which represent a strong commitment to the quality of their products: The Rose promise offers a 6-year warranty with 50% crash replacement.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Rose RC-Fifty Rim (RIM)

The carbon profile is calm, elegant, and balanced - the dandy among rims, with a width of 28 mm and a height of 47 mm as well as an inner rim width of 19 mm. In contrast to the no longer quite contemporary rim brakes, Rose has clearly designed for more modern, wider tires. Tubeless-ready from the factory, the rim comes with already applied rim tape for an uncomplicated conversion to tubeless tires. Throughout the entire test, I once again rode with Continental GP5000 Tube-Type Clinchers.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

The RC-Fifty not only roll consistently and quickly on straight roads, but are also light enough to tackle sharp climbs without feeling the need to immediately empty the water bottles. Thanks to the rim brakes, they are also several hundred grams lighter than the disc model, as the various material savings result in an overall lighter setup and also offer timeless elegance and simple sophistication. Just saying...

However, this object of desire impresses not only with its weight superiority and vain appearance but also with its excellent wind deflection and structural stiffness. The 19 mm internal width of the rim forms a proverbial unit with the 25 mm wide tire, which means that hardly any wind turbulence occurs at the front wheel, and the rider can easily chase down the steepest descents.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Rose RC-Fifty Hubs (RIM)

The Newman Road Front and Road Rear Rim hubs are fully made from CNC-machined aluminum and specifically designed for rim brakes. The front wheel hub houses two cartridge bearings, while the rear wheel hub contains four cartridge bearings, all of which are double-sealed. The Newman "Fade" ratchet system ensures precise engagement and durability. Although the "centerpiece" overall seems more like the heart of an athlete and appears somewhat bulky, it operates wonderfully smooth with spokes and rim during use, maximizing the rider's propulsion.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Weights (including rim tape weighed)

Wheelset: 1,385 g
Front wheel: 618 g
Rear wheel: 767 g

Given the amount of material provided, the weight is impressively low. This is reflected in a responsive and quick acceleration from a standstill and when rolling, without feeling like you're riding on a set that is too fragile, consisting of a mere breath of nothing. The RC-Fifty are by no means fragile: Despite their lightness and reactive performance, they convey a robust and reliable quality. Negative surprises such as speed wobbles were absent.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Rose RC-Fifty Aero Spokes & Inverted Nipples

The aluminum spokes were laced and centered 100% by hand - Rose relies entirely on handcrafting and dispenses with machine assistance. The slightly angled installation of the bladed spokes minimizes wind-induced effects and torsional forces, contributing to the outstanding running properties and comfort of the wheels. They offer excellent rolling behavior and integrate seamlessly into the overall appearance of the wheels.

Equipped with Sapim CX-Sprint Straightpull Aero spokes, 20 in the front wheel and 21 in the rear wheel, these wheels offer an optimal balance between aerodynamics and durability. The radially laced front wheel and the radially or 3-cross laced rear wheel ensure an even distribution of forces.

The aerodynamically placed Sapim aluminum spoke nipples are mounted inversely and supported by conical Sapim nipple washers. This arrangement allows for a more even load distribution, relieves stress on the spokes and rims, and significantly reduces the risk of spoke failure.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Additional Features and Accessories

The wheels come with pre-installed tubeless-ready rim tapes, Rose tubeless valves, ultra-stiff quick release axles, SwissStop Black Prince Evo brake pads for carbon braking surfaces, and a Rose Double Wheel Guard Bag.

Other brake pads than those from SwissStop and Shimano R55C4 Dura Ace/Ultegra/105 carbon brake pads (item no.: 1914667) are not approved by Rose.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Here is the translated text preserving the formatting:```

Rose RC-Fifty Carbon Rim

Wheel size 28″ (700 C)
Front Wheel 20x Sapim CX-Sprint Straightpull Aero spokes, radial, 9x100mm QR
Rear Wheel 21x Sapim CX-Sprint/CX Ray spokes, left radial, right triple-crossed, 10x130mm QR, Shimano 11-speed freehub with ratchet system
Hubs Newman, double-sealed industrial bearings
Rims Carbon, asymmetric profile, Tubeless Ready (TLR), 28 mm external width, 47 mm rim depth, 19 mm inner width, dimension 622x19
Nipples Sapim aluminum spoke nipples
Weight 618 g front wheel (weighed incl. rim tape)
767 g rear wheel (weighed incl. rim tape)
1,385 g wheelset (weighed incl. rim tapes)
Weight limit Max. 110 kg system weight
Scope of delivery Incl. TLR rim tapes, Rose Tubeless valves, quick-release skewers, SwissStop Black Prince Evo brake pads for carbon braking surfaces, and a Rose Double Wheel Guard Bag.
Price €999,- instead of €1,499,- RRP
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Conti GP 5000 25C + Tubolito Tubo-Road with 60 mm Presta Valve

Vanesa opted for the fast and worry-free Continental Grand Prix 5000 folding tires in 25C. As befits their status, we mounted these with the new Tubolitos Tubo-Road inner tubes with black valves. True to Conti's style, this endeavor was quite difficult to handle, but it was possible without excessive use of tire levers due to the 19 mm rim width.

Important Tips & Tricks for Tubolito Installation
(1) We installed the Tubo-Road, as the lighter S-Tubos are only approved for racing bikes with disc brakes and not for rim brakes.
(2) The amount of pressure that can be pumped into Tubolitos depends on the tire used.
(3) Inflate Tubolitos outside of the tire to no more than 0.5 bar, as they may otherwise deform and become damaged!
(4) Because of the glued-in valve cores, no sealant can be used. Residues from tubeless sealant do not harm Tubolito products.
(5) Should a puncture occur, the specially developed Tubo-Patch-Kit can be used to easily repair the tube. Attention: Puncture repair kits for butyl rubber tubes are not suitable for TPU tubes.
(6) As long as the tire dimensions (wheel diameter and tire width) are the same, Tubolitos can be easily removed and reinstalled in another wheel.

Attention: If you carry a Tubolito with an SV valve as a spare tube, check in advance whether the valve core is compatible with your CO2 adapter or pump. Occasionally, pump heads with a clamping mechanism do not find an optimal fit.

 The super-light Tubolito S-Tubo-Road is NOT approved for use with rim brakes. 

Weightweenies, pay attention
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

In practice: Running characteristics and comfort

Fantastic, biting handling! Lightness and stability - what initially sounds like an oxymoron, has been implemented with the development of these rims. Even with a live weight of 48 kg (!) and at peaks of up to a brisk 85 km/h, I consistently feel in control of the handling of these weapons - no firearms license necessary.
Even on largely exposed service roads over the infrastructure-poor alpine pastures of the Lower Austrian Prealps, I'm not blown away. It was clear from the first ride: I could let go of my respect for crosswinds. And since statistically most road cyclists weigh over 50 kg, there should be little room for overestimation/misjudgment; pretty much every rider should be able to manage the height of the rim.

The freewheel sounds rich and confident, but still does not replace a bell and does not scare pedestrians on the Vienna bike path, as the DT Swiss models like to do. The bearings run smoothly, lubricated, supple.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

And now to the king's discipline and my biggest concern with carbon rims: Of course, the braking power in the wet falls somewhat short of the potency of disc brakes. However, under rainy conditions, the RC-Fifty are also fit for descents! 5%, 10%, 15%, 18% … Unlike older generations of carbon rims, the Rose wheels show no delay before the braking effect occurs. This "artistic pause" was usually the moment that led a rider on a descent, out of fear of brake failure, to a too-tight grip on the brakes, which then caused the wheel to lock up when the braking power kicked in too suddenly and excessively.

The RC-Fifty, on the other hand, respond promptly when braking and offer immediate control, all without drifts. And although I don't consciously seek out heavy rain for training, it apparently seeks me out - especially just in time before steep descents. In such moments, I appreciate the controlled, strong braking performance all the more.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

And Cipollini also explained to me when asked about his creed in a conversation, "it's six of one, half a dozen of the other," and that it hardly makes a difference to him: Whether rim brakes or the currently more fashionable disc brakes, the performance is, in his opinion, comparably good.

  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes

Conclusion

Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM
Model Year: 2019-2023
Test Duration: 4 months / 1,100 km and 30,000 m elevation gain, still in test
Price: € 999,- instead of € 1,499,- RRP
+ Aerodynamics
+ Stiffness
+ 19 mm internal width
+ Light, stable and agile
+ Good braking performance even in wet conditions
o Not (anymore) easy to get
- Braking performance not on the level of discs
BB-Verdict: Price-performance tip for rim brake enthusiasts.

The Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM wheels with a RRP of € 1,499 are a carbon wheelset of the upper mid-range class. Perhaps they are not the Lamborghini among wheels, like for example the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate UST, but definitely a Mercedes and also appropriately priced – especially at the current discounted rate of € 999.

Moreover, they are an excellent example that even in the year 2024, you are not considered outdated with rim brake wheels. They impress with their versatility, quality, and performance, making them an outstanding choice for any cyclist who values traditional aesthetics and modern performance. And all that without breaking the budget.

 Best Value for Your Money. 

Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheelset
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim BrakesRose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes
  • Rose RC-Fifty Carbon RIM Wheels for Rim Brakes