LILLE (France) – After the team presentations (and the party at Van Rysel's), it's time for another presentation: that of Swiss Side. The Swiss brand, which we have had the opportunity to see several times test closely, has lifted the veil on the two new lines of wheels: the third generation of HADRON³, cubed, in fact. An evolution that further raises the bar of aerodynamics (but not only, as we'll see) in road cycling and also in triathlon.
Aerodynamics, handling and optimisation of the wheel-tyre system are the three pillars This revamped range, including both the super-top Ultimate and Classic lines, is based on the same foundation. Featuring deeper and wider rims, new hubs, and extensive development designed for real-world racing conditions, not just the lab.
HADRON³ Ultimate: pure performance
The top-of-the-range HADRON³ Ultimate is the result of years of field and wind tunnel research. The three new versions, 550, 680 and 850 millimetres, share the new V-shape section of the wheels, Deeper and wider, yet lighter than the previous generation. The profile has been recalibrated to reduce aerodynamic drag with profile lean angles reduced by 5°, generating an average saving of 15 percent in dissipated power compared to the HADRON².
The real revolution is the active handling concept, which improves stability and allows the rider to maintain an aerodynamic position even in crosswinds. This is also possible thanks to the new Aero hubs based on DT Swiss 180, with SINC ceramic bearings and Aerolite II spokes.
Weight is kept low: the 680 version, for example, weighs 1.559 grams, a full 123 grams less than the corresponding HADRON² (the 650). The Ultimates offer full compatibility with 25 to 32 mm tires, and are optimized for 28-29 mm sizes.
HADRON³ Classic: affordable quality
The HADRON³ Classic line inherits the same rim design as the Ultimate, but with a more economical approach in terms of components. The hubs are Swiss Side – DT Swiss 370 Aero, more compact, but still guaranteeing an improvement in aerodynamic performance compared to the previous generation: -16 percent of average drag (aerodynamic resistance) with AERO 111 tyres and -12 percent with Continental GP5000S TR.
It should be noted that the collaboration between Swiss Side and DT Swiss is very close and both brands' products are developed together.
The spokes are DT Aerocomp J-Bend and the set weighs 1.674 grams in the 550 versionThe Classic 680 version weighs in at 1.746 grams. While the HADRON² 380 (presented in 2024), the most popular among climbers, tips the scales at 1.476 grams. Obviously, all these weights refer to the pair.
There are three new versions of HADRON³ Classic available: 550, 680 and 850, with respective depths of 55, 65 and 85 millimetres and an internal channel whose width is 22 millimetres, like the rest of the Ultimate line. Here too, the hook-type construction allows the safe use of different pressures and tires, favoring the tuning of the wheel-tire system based on the wind.
One of the strong points of this wheel is also its quality/price ratio, which starts from 1.495 euros, about 700 euros less than the top-of-the-range line. The HADRON³ Classic line is therefore a perfect choice for those seeking WorldTour performance while keeping an eye on their budget, thanks also to the reduced gap of only 0,7 watts compared to the Ultimate line.
HADRON³ Disc: Time Trial and Triathlon
At the cutting edge of aerodynamic research is the new HADRON³ Ultimate DISC, designed for time trials and triathlons. This disc wheel model completes the Ultimate range by offering the same construction philosophy: optimised profile, low weight and compatibility with modern tyres. Despite its width and monolithic structure, the wheel is built with advanced materials that limit its weight without compromising stiffness or handling.
Tests show a drag reduction of over 2 watts compared to the best WorldTour competitors, while maintaining superior control even at high speeds. This is where Swiss Side makes the most of the modularity of the wheel-tyre system: in conditions of no wind, GP5000 TT TR tires can be used for minimal rolling resistance. When the race is affected by lateral gusts, the AERO 111 tires guarantee a sail effect and maximum stability. It should be noted that this wheel was tested and developed with the team Decathlon-AG2R and Ironman champions Sam Laidlow and Laura Philipp.
The wheel-tyre “system”
We've talked about the wheel-tire system several times. But does it really matter that much? After all, it's about the fit of a tire on a rim: how different can it be from tire to tire? In cycling, details matter a lot.
A distinctive element of the entire HADRON³ range is the ability to optimize performance based on the wind and the type of race. Swiss Side introduces the concept of “Dual Performance Setup”: with crosswind, The Continental AERO 111 tire offers a sail effect and better grip. In calm conditions or high-speed time trials, the lighter GP5000 TT TR can be fitted, offering lower rolling resistance. In both cases, aerodynamic drag remains low thanks to the wheel's reduced drag base.
The HADRON³ also stands out for its compatibility with 25 to 32 mm cross-sections, maintaining stability and safety thanks to the hook-type rim. The graphs show more linear and predictable steering moment curves than competitors, even at greater depths. This is a real advantage for those seeking not only top speed, but also control, reliability, and adaptability on any type of terrain.
