The numbers 35, 40, 50, 55, and 86 are always displayed on carbon wheels, and this time, we will explain what these numbers mean.

These numbers represent the aerodynamic "depth" of the wheel's rim in millimeters. For example, taking 35 as an example, it means that from where the tire is mounted on the wheel, the rim extends an additional 35 millimeters towards the hub. At ICAN, they are also displayed in product names such as AERO40 and FL 50.

One of the biggest advantages of carbon wheels is improved aerodynamic performance. Aerodynamics plays a big role in how fast and how efficiently a cyclist can ride. Imagine riding with friends, pedaling behind other riders and wanting to overtake them, it's much easier to catch up to them because of your superior wheel aerodynamics.

Aside from your body when riding, wheels create the most aerodynamic drag. The way to counteract this effect is to increase the "depth" of the rim. The deeper the rim, the more aerodynamic the wheel, allowing you to cut through the wind more efficiently and faster. An 86mm deep wheel has better aerodynamic performance than a 35mm wheel and is often used in situations where aerodynamic performance is very important, such as long high-speed solo rides and triathlons.

Why do some people choose 35mm rims? Aren't 86mm rims more aerodynamic?

The answer is that by increasing the aerodynamics of the wheel, it becomes more susceptible to crosswinds (wind from the side). Imagine riding around 86. You can move quickly due to the aerodynamics of the deep wheels, but if a gust of wind comes from the side, it pushes the entire bicycle sideways. If you're riding alone, like in a triathlon, this isn't such a big deal, but if you're riding in a group of cyclists, this lateral push can also affect other riders. At the very least, it requires extra concentration on your part. "Shallower" wheels like 35mm are less affected by crosswinds (conversely, they also have less aerodynamic advantage).

Weight is also an important consideration. 35mm wheels are lighter than 86mm wheels. This is because less carbon is used to manufacture the rim. Lighter wheels accelerate faster and make climbing hills much easier. This means that if you're sprinting and climbing mountains, a shallower rim (like 35) might be the best option.

Why do some riders have wheels with different depths front and rear?

The front wheel is more susceptible to crosswind interference because it can rotate for steering. The rear wheel is fixed, so crosswinds have little effect on handling. This allows for a deeper rim on the rear. The ICAN DT FL40/55 wheelset is a typical example with a 40mm rim on the front and a 55mm rim on the rear. Such an asymmetrical wheelset allows you to enjoy aerodynamic advantages without sacrificing too much stability in windy conditions. The additional rim depth also provides the benefit of increased strength and stiffness in the rear wheel, which is very important for heavier and high-power riders.

What about ICAN's new AERO40, 50, and 86 wheels?

We wanted to provide our customers with a more useful range of product lines, so we designed even lighter and more aerodynamic wheelsets.

We also decided to specifically design the front and rear rims to be different, working together as a system. This is a significant departure from most brands that use the exact same rim for both the front and rear wheels. We call this system design.

ICAN AERO35/50 - For climbing and sprinting - a 35mm deep front wheel and a 50mm deep rear wheel. The front rim is the shallowest and lightest rim we've ever made. The rear rim has a depth of 50mm, providing the strength and stiffness needed for hard climbing and high-power sprints.

ICAN AERO40/55 - All-rounder - a 40mm deep front wheel and a 55mm deep rear wheel. Previously, 40mm deep wheels were widely accepted as being all-rounders. It can be said that these wheels have particularly low crosswind resistance and excellent aerodynamic characteristics in the direction of travel.

ICAN AERO55/86 - Triathlon - a 55mm front wheel and an 86mm deep rear wheel. This wheelset is designed to balance aerodynamic advantage in racing and training with manageable handling in various wind conditions. The ultra-deep 86mm rear rim is our most aerodynamic rim to date. It is combined with a 55mm deep front rim, optimized for crosswind stability. This combination creates the ultimate triathlon and time trial wheelset suitable for a wide range of conditions.