DUKE 28" Gravel Sierra AERA W 48 SLR5 Rim | 24-hole
With the Sierra AERA series, Duke is ushering in a new era of rims. Lightweight, comfortable, and above all, unmatched in aerodynamics—these rims will give you a clear advantage in the race against the clock. Once again, the French seem to be pushing the boundaries of physics without compromising performance.
Particularly striking is the rim’s corrugated sidewall. Not only is it a visual eye-catcher, but the AERA relief also offers functional benefits. It helps reduce braking turbulence and has lowered drag by a measurable 10%. In addition, susceptibility to strong crosswinds or gusts is noticeably reduced, enabling smooth and predictable steering at all times.
Duke has once again opted for a rim flange with a hook to ensure the tire always sits securely, even at high air pressures. In the Wide version, this flange is very robust, measuring approximately 7.5 mm. This not only provides additional stability in this area but is also adapted to the shape of modern gravel tires and fits almost flush with them. As a result, there is less surface area exposed to the wind, improving aerodynamics. In addition, the anti-pinch construction prevents the tire from being pinched and damaged during hard impacts.
Another notable feature is the inner width, which has been increased to 28 mm. This is now standard and allows wider tires to maintain a better shape, resulting in more grip and greater comfort. This also has a positive effect on aerodynamics. Thanks to the excellent craftsmanship and high-quality materials, the rims are certified for a system weight of 130 kg and can therefore also be used for light bikepacking. Duke has once again opted for a rim flange with hooks to ensure the tire always sits securely, even at high air pressures. Additionally, the anti-pinch design prevents the rim from being pinched and damaged during hard impacts.
The AERA W 48 rim is designed primarily for wide tires and is recommended by Duke for use on the front wheel, where it can best showcase its aerodynamic advantages.
SLR5 (Super Light Road Series 5) – Process
In addition to the exclusive Toray T1100 carbon fibers, the SLR5 manufacturing process is largely responsible for the rim’s high-quality appearance. Thanks to the optimized carbon laminate, only as much material as is needed at specific points is used, without compromising functionality. This has reduced the weight by approximately 20% compared to the SLR2 rims. Furthermore, post-processing or painting during the production process is no longer necessary. This not only saves energy but also ensures a scratch-resistant surface and a natural, glossy appearance.
DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) Technology
Another interesting feature is the integrated DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) technology. This ensures controlled vertical flexibility and rebound of the rim on rough terrain. This significantly improves rider comfort, and the stored energy can also be harnessed for explosive acceleration.
Molded spoke holes
To avoid compromising the stability of the carbon fibers, the spoke holes are not drilled as is customary, but are instead formed during the layering of the individual mats. This preserves the fiber structure and eliminates weak points in the rim from the outset. In addition, vertical and lateral stiffness can be better controlled at these points.
3-Year Warranty and Lifetime Crash Replacement on UD Carbon Rims
Duke selects the materials used with great care to offer you the best possible product. Therefore, the quality standards for all products, subcontractors, and partners are very strict. Duke guarantees for a period of two years that the rims offered are free of hidden defects. However, the warranty is void in the event of improper installation or use of the products.
In the event of accidents or serious crashes, severe impacts can damage the rim and render it unusable. That’s why Duke offers a lifetime crash replacement for its UD-carbon rims. As part of this program, you’ll receive a 50% discount on the rim you purchased when you exchange it.
Technical Specifications:
Intended Use: Gravel
Material: Toray T1100 carbon
Rim type: Clincher (spoked and folding tires)
Brake type: Disc brakes only
ETRTO: 622x28
ERD: 548 mm
Inner width: 28 mm
Outer width: 43 mm
Rim height: 48 mm
Offset: none (symmetrical)
Number of holes: 24
Tubeless-compatible: yes
ASTM classification: N/A
Recommended tire width: 40 to 61 mm, aerodynamically optimized for 42–44 mm
Maximum tire pressure: 3.9 bar with a 44 mm tire width
Maximum system weight: 130 kg (rider, bike, clothing, and any luggage)
Maximum spoke tension: 1200 N
Features: SLR5 technology, DRC (Dynamic Response Comfort) technology
Valve hole diameter: 6 mm (SV), recommended valve height 63 mm
Finish: UD carbon, satin
Color: black
Manufacturer-specified weight: 460 g
Weight (measured by us): -
Package contents: 1x DUKE 28" Gravel Sierra W 48 SLR5 rim | 24-hole