Cero RC45 Evo: UK Carbon Clincher Verdict

In the competitive world of cycling components, finding a brand that consistently delivers quality without demanding a king's ransom is akin to discovering a hidden gem. Cero, the in-house brand from UK-based CycleDivision, has been steadily building a reputation for doing just that. Specialising in essential cycle componentry, from bottle cages to wheelsets, Cero aims to make high-performance cycling accessible. Today, we're taking a deep dive into one of their most anticipated offerings: the Cero RC45 Evo carbon clincher wheelset. Designed with a clear focus on speed and performance, and rigorously tested by professional and ex-professional riders, these wheels promise a lot. But do they truly deliver on Cero's commitment to affordable excellence?

Unleashing Performance: Speed & Responsiveness

Cero states that the RC45 Evo carbon clincher wheelset is built purely with speed and performance in mind, and our time with them certainly backs up this claim. As a deep-section carbon wheel, the RC45 Evos are designed to slice through the air, offering significant aerodynamic advantages that become apparent as soon as you pick up the pace. The 45mm rim depth strikes a superb balance, providing ample aero benefits without making the wheels overly susceptible to crosswinds, a common concern with deeper profiles. This thoughtful design means you can maintain higher speeds with less effort, making them ideal for flat-out efforts, time trials, and fast-paced group rides.

Where these wheels truly come into their own is when you push them. At a mere 1,475 grams, they are remarkably light for a deep-section carbon clincher. This low weight translates directly into a lively and responsive feel under power. Climbing, often a weakness for heavier aero wheels, feels surprisingly manageable, and the wheels respond instantly to accelerations. There's a tangible surge when you power out of corners or off the bottom of descents, indicating excellent power transfer and a willingness to hold speed. While some deeper wheels might feel sluggish at very low speeds, the RC45 Evos manage to mitigate this common trait thanks to their impressive weight, delivering a ride that feels nimble and engaging even before you hit full stride. They hold speed beautifully once you're up to pace, ensuring that your effort is efficiently converted into forward momentum.

Built for British Roads: Durability & Reliability

For UK riders, durability and reliability are paramount, especially given the unpredictable weather and varied road surfaces. Cero has clearly considered this in the design of the RC45 Evo wheelset. The choice of components speaks volumes about their commitment to longevity. Both the front and rear wheels feature a 20-spoke count. While 20 spokes might seem relatively low for a rear wheel, the quality of the components more than compensates. Cero has opted for high-quality Sapim CX-Ray spokes, renowned in the industry for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio and aerodynamic properties. These spokes, combined with Cero's own robust alloy hubs, ensure that the wheels remain stiff and robust, even under significant load.

A critical detail for any wheelset, particularly one intended for the changeable British climate, is the quality of its bearings. Cero has equipped the RC45 Evos with double-sealed Japanese bearings. This double sealing is crucial, providing superior protection against ingress from water, grit, and road grime – common adversaries on UK roads. This attention to detail means smoother rolling for longer, with less need for frequent maintenance, ultimately extending the lifespan of the wheelset. Throughout our testing, there was absolutely no hint of undue flex from either the front or rear wheel, even when sprinting hard or cornering aggressively. Importantly, this stiffness translated into zero brake rub, even with the brake calipers set close to the rim, which speaks volumes about the wheel's structural integrity and build quality.

The hubs themselves offer quick engagement, which is a fantastic feature for responsive riding. Quick engagement means that as soon as you apply power, the hub transfers that power to the wheel with minimal lag, making for a more immediate and satisfying ride feel, especially when restarting from a standstill or accelerating out of corners. And for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback, the hubs produce a satisfyingly loud ratchet noise – a subtle but enjoyable characteristic that many riders appreciate.

Stopping Power: Braking Performance

Braking performance on carbon rims has historically been a point of contention for many riders, especially in wet conditions. While carbon technology has come a long way, it's still an area where some wheels excel more than others. The Cero RC45 Evos offer what can be described as fairly decent braking. It's not the absolute best on the market, as acknowledged when comparing them to top-tier options like the Fulcrum Racing Zero Carbon, which sets a very high bar. However, for a wheelset that comes in at approximately £700 cheaper than some premium alternatives, the braking is remarkably predictable.

Predictability is key when it comes to braking, providing a rider with confidence that they know exactly how the bike will react when the levers are pulled. This consistency means you can modulate your speed effectively and safely, even when descending at pace. While the provided information didn't include extensive testing in hot temperatures, which can sometimes challenge carbon braking surfaces, the overall impression is one of reliability within typical riding conditions. For general road use and racing, the braking offers sufficient power and control, allowing for confident deceleration. When paired with high-quality tyres, such as the Vittoria Corsa G tyres used in testing, the overall braking experience becomes even more refined, highlighting the importance of a good tyre choice to complement the wheelset.

The Cero Value Proposition

Cero's core philosophy revolves around providing quality cycling components without the prohibitive price tag, and the RC45 Evo carbon clinchers embody this ethos perfectly. In a market saturated with high-cost carbon wheelsets, the RC45 Evos stand out as a genuinely affordable option for riders looking to upgrade. This isn't just about being cheap; it's about offering a compelling performance-to-price ratio that few can match. The fact that these wheels are designed and tested by professional and ex-professional riders in the UK adds a layer of credibility and assurance that they are built to perform in real-world scenarios.

Cero may not be a household name in the same vein as some of the long-established cycling giants, but they are clearly doing all the right things. By focusing on essential componentry, utilising quality materials like Sapim spokes and Japanese bearings, and maintaining a direct approach, they manage to keep costs down without compromising on ride quality or durability. This makes the RC45 Evos an incredibly attractive proposition for a wide range of riders: from aspiring racers seeking a competitive edge, to seasoned enthusiasts looking for a significant performance upgrade without emptying their wallet, or even those simply wanting to experience the benefits of carbon wheels for the first time.

Cero RC45 Evo Carbon Clinchers: A Quick Comparison

To put the Cero RC45 Evo's value into perspective, let's consider how it stacks up against generic representations of mid-range and high-end carbon clinchers.

Maintaining Your RC45 Evos

While the Cero RC45 Evos are built for durability, particularly with their double-sealed bearings, proper maintenance will ensure they continue to perform at their best for years to come. Regularly inspect the braking surface for any build-up of brake pad material or road grime, which can impact braking performance. Keeping the rims clean, especially after wet rides, is crucial. Check spoke tension periodically, particularly after the initial few hundred miles, to ensure the wheels remain true and stiff. Given the quality of the bearings, they should provide long service, but listening for any unusual noises or feeling for excessive play in the hubs can indicate a need for professional inspection or bearing replacement. Choosing the right brake pads specifically designed for carbon rims is also vital for both performance and preventing premature wear to the rim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Cero RC45 Evo wheels good for climbing?

Yes, despite being a deep-section aero wheel, their relatively light weight of 1,475 grams makes them surprisingly capable climbers. They accelerate well and don't feel sluggish on gradients, offering a good balance between aerodynamic efficiency and climbing prowess.

How do Cero RC45 Evo wheels perform in wet conditions?

The braking is described as predictable, which is a good sign. While carbon braking can sometimes be less effective in the wet compared to alloy, the predictability of the RC45 Evos means you can still brake with confidence. As with any carbon rim brake wheel, exercising caution and allowing extra stopping distance in wet conditions is always advisable. Using high-quality carbon-specific brake pads designed for all-weather conditions will further enhance performance.

What tyres are recommended for these wheels?

The wheels were tested with Vittoria Corsa G tyres, which are known for their excellent grip and rolling resistance. Generally, high-quality clincher tyres (or tubeless tyres if you convert, though the prompt implies clincher) with a good balance of puncture protection and low rolling resistance will complement these wheels well. Ensure the tyre width is appropriate for the rim, typically between 25mm and 28mm for optimal aerodynamics and comfort.

Can these wheels be used for everyday training?

Absolutely. While built for speed and performance, their robust construction, including Sapim CX-Ray spokes and double-sealed Japanese bearings, makes them durable enough for regular use. They are not just race-day specific wheels; they can certainly serve as a fantastic upgrade for daily training rides where you want to experience the benefits of carbon aero wheels.

What sets Cero apart in the market?

Cero's primary differentiator is its commitment to providing high-quality, performance-oriented cycling components at a genuinely affordable price point. As CycleDivision's in-house brand, they benefit from direct distribution, cutting out unnecessary mark-ups. Their focus on rigorous testing by professional riders, combined with thoughtful component selection (like Sapim spokes and sealed Japanese bearings), ensures that riders get excellent value without compromising on key performance metrics or durability.

How long can I expect carbon wheels to last?

With proper care and maintenance, a well-built carbon wheelset like the Cero RC45 Evos can last for many thousands of miles. The lifespan depends heavily on riding conditions, rider weight, and maintenance frequency. Regular cleaning, checking for damage, and timely servicing of hubs and bearings will significantly extend their life. The main wear point for rim brake carbon wheels is the braking surface, which will eventually degrade over time, particularly with heavy or frequent braking.

The Final Verdict

Cero has truly hit the mark with the RC45 Evo carbon clincher wheelset. They've managed to engineer a product that delivers genuine performance benefits – speed, responsiveness, and impressive light weight for their depth – while maintaining a price point that makes them accessible to a much broader audience. They are a very well-balanced wheelset, favouring fast, performance-demanding rides and races, yet remain robust enough for regular use on varied terrains. The attention to detail, from the quality of the spokes to the double-sealed bearings, demonstrates a commitment to durability that will resonate with UK riders. If you're in the market for a significant carbon wheel upgrade and value both performance and an excellent price, you would be incredibly foolish not to consider the Cero RC45 Evo. They might not carry the same brand recognition as some of the established giants, but Cero is undoubtedly doing all the right things to ensure good quality components at truly wallet-friendly prices. These wheels represent a shrewd investment for anyone looking to unlock more speed and enjoyment from their road cycling.

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