Princeton CarbonWorks Evolution Wheels: Subtle Waves, Maximum Speed

For years, the Princeton CarbonWorks Wake 6560 and Peak 4550 defined the standard for speed and innovation. Now, the Evolution series pushes that benchmark even further. Lighter. Faster. More stable. Every detail has been refined for riders who demand nothing but the best.

And yes—while the iconic wave profile remains, the design is now more subtle, more aerodynamic, and more composed in real-world riding conditions. This is the wheelset for cyclists who want pro-level performance without compromise.

What’s New in Evolution

• Refined Wave Profile – The alternating rim depths (60–65 mm) are still here but less pronounced, creating smoother airflow while improving stability in gusty conditions.

• Wider Rim Platform – 21 mm internal width optimized for 25–28 mm tires, giving a larger contact patch for better cornering and lower rolling resistance.

• Lighter Rim Construction – New carbon layup saves ~10 g per rim without sacrificing stiffness.

• Hole‑Less Tubeless Bed – No tape, no mess, no pressure restrictions. Just mount and ride.

• Radially Staggered Lacing – Balances spoke tension for improved power transfer and responsiveness.

• Premium Hub Choices – From DT Swiss 180, White Industries, Chris King and their Tactic Tr01 and TR02 hubs

• Pro Tour Proven – Even Ineos Grenadiers riders secretly swap to Princeton CarbonWorks wheels on key stages they want to win, trusting the aerodynamic edge and handling when it matters most.

These refinements deliver a wheel that climbs better, handles crosswinds with confidence, and saves watts in the wind tunnel and on the road.

Why High-End Cyclists Will Love Evolution

1. Proven Speed with Real-World Stability
   Evolution retains the aero advantage of the original Wake 6560 while improving control in crosswinds—perfect for solo breakaways or fast descents.

2. Race-Ready Stiffness and Weight
   Lighter rims and improved spoke balance mean sharper handling and instant acceleration when the hammer drops.

3. Wider Rim = Faster Rolling
   Pair 25–28 mm tires with a 21 mm internal width for reduced rolling resistance and a smoother, more confident ride.

4. Effortless Tubeless Setup
   The hole-less rim bed removes tape hassles, a detail that serious cyclists will appreciate every time they change tires.

5. Tailored Performance with Premium Hubs
   Choose from DT Swiss, White Industries, Tactic Racing, or Chris King to match your personal riding style.

6. Pro Tour Validation
   If the pros trust Evolution wheels on the most decisive stages of the Tour, you know they deliver real-world performance, not just wind-tunnel numbers.

7. Built Without Compromise
   Handmade in the USA with the precision and quality control expected by elite riders.

❌ What You Should Consider Before Upgrading

1. Top-Tier Price
   These wheels are unapologetically premium. The gains are measurable, but they’re built for riders who demand every watt of advantage. Write to us for the best prices!

2. More Subtle Waves
   If you loved the dramatic wave look of the first-gen Wake 6560, the Evolution’s smoother profile might feel understated—though its speed gains are undeniable.

3. Setup Learning Curve
   While the hole-less tubeless bed is superior, it requires precise installation. Many riders will prefer a shop setup the first time.

4. Marginal Gains for Existing Owners
   If you already ride first-gen Wake or Peak wheels, the Evolution is a refinement rather than a revolution. For some, that may not justify the upgrade cost.

🏆 The Updated Lineup

Wake 6560 Evolution

The ultimate all-round aero wheel.

• Subtler wave profile for smoother aerodynamics

• ~3.9 W faster than the previous Wake 6560 in Princeton’s testing

• Hooked rim design for maximum tire compatibility

• Hub options: DT Swiss 180, Tactic Racing, White Industries, Chris King

Peak 4550 Evolution

The ultimate weapon for climbers and rolling terrain.

• Ultra-light rim construction (~420 g)

• Same refined wave design for aero efficiency without compromise

• Perfect for punchy climbs and high-altitude racing
  
  
  

Dual 5550 / Grit 4540 / Mach 7580 Evolution

All built with the same Evolution DNA:

• Dual 5550: Balanced for versatile racing and training

• Grit 4540: Gravel-ready but still aero-efficient on the road

• Mach 7580: Deep-section speed demon for pure aero dominance

Entry-Level vs. Mid-Range vs. PCW Evolution: Watt Gains

What This Means on the Road

• Switching from Racing 900 → Fulcrum Wind 42 DB saves around 10–12 watts: enough to hold speed longer or ride more comfortably in the pack.

• Jumping from Fulcrum Wind 42 DB → PCW Evolution can save an additional 15–18 watts, which over a 40 km race translates into ~30–45 seconds gained.

• Wake 6560 Evo is your pure speed weapon for flat and rolling terrain.

• Peak 4550 Evo still provides 20–25 watts savings vs. entry-level while being lighter for climbs.

Why This Matters

At 300 watts FTP, saving 25 watts means you’re effectively riding at 275 watts for the same speed—or holding a faster speed without additional effort. That’s why Thymen Arensman chose PCW wheels for his two Tour de France stage wins in 2025.

⚡ The Bottom Line

The Princeton CarbonWorks Evolution wheels are not just an update—they’re a masterclass in refinement. The waves are subtler, the handling sharper, and the speed undeniable.

For high-end cyclists who want every advantage, this is the wheelset that turns potential into performance.

👉 Explore the Princeton CarbonWorks Evolution Series