Novatec R5 pro+ Gen 5 700c 50mm Disc Brake Carbon Disc Brake Wheelset

The Novatec R5 Pro+ Gen 5 is a fifth-generation 50 mm-deep disc brake carbon road wheelset with a DRS Dual Ratchet System hub and Sapim spokes, balancing aerodynamics and weight, and Tubeless Ready out of the box.

Key Highlights

• Category: Carbon disc brake road wheelset, 50 mm rim height, 5th generation (Gen 5)
• Brand: Novatec (Taiwanese hub and wheelset brand)
• Hub: DRS Dual Ratchet System hub (36T), straight-pull spokes, Center Lock rotor mount
• Key numbers: 27.8 mm external rim width, approx. 1,315 g wheelset weight (pair, excluding tubeless rim tape), recommended tyre width 700 x 25C–43C, max load 120 kg
• Compatibility: Shimano 11/12-speed as standard; SRAM 12-speed requires an XDR driver body (SRAM version available); please contact us before ordering for other cassette combinations
• Best for: Disc brake road riders who want a balance of cruising speed and weight for everyday training and long rides

DRS Dual Ratchet System Hub for Direct Power Transfer

The R5 Pro+ Gen 5 inherits the DRS (Dual Ratchet System) hub from Novatec's Premium range, with a 36T ratchet and a 10-degree engagement angle for quick, direct power transfer when pedalling. The system is simple to service, and an 18T ratchet option is available. The hub is 100% compatible with the DT Swiss 54T ratchet (part no. HWTXXX00NSK54S) for future upgrades.

Tubeless Ready, Built for Wider Tyres

The rims are Tubeless Ready out of the box while remaining fully compatible with traditional clincher tyres and tubes. With a recommended tyre range of 700 x 25C–43C, the R5 Pro+ Gen 5 suits wider tyres for stronger terrain versatility and a more comfortable ride feel across varied road surfaces.

Novatec R Series Rim Height Comparison: R4 / R5 / R6

The Novatec R Series shares the same Pro+ tier hub and materials across the range, with rim height as the main difference. Jollymap stocks these three:

Specifications sourced from Novatec's official product data (novatecwheels.eu, Novatec Taiwan's official page). Weight is measured on a different basis for each model (R5 excludes tubeless rim tape; R6 Gen 1 includes it). The R6 Pro+ also has a second generation — see Novatec R6 PRO+ Gen2.

Each rim height suits a different priority: 45 mm balances climbing handling and aerodynamics with less crosswind effect; 50 mm (this page) is a middle-ground depth balancing cruising speed and weight, good for most everyday training and long rides; 60 mm offers the most aerodynamic benefit on flat terrain at speed, though crosswind effect is more noticeable.

Technical Specifications

Brand	Novatec
Version	Pro+ 5th generation (Gen 5)
Rim height	50 mm
Rim material	Carbon fibre
External rim width	27.8 mm
Internal rim width	21 mm
Wheelset weight	Approx. 1,315 g (pair, excluding tubeless rim tape)
Max load	120 kg
Spokes	Sapim, ultra-light aero bladed spokes, 21H front / 24H rear, 2:1 lacing
Recommended tyre width	700 x 25C–43C
Hub	DRS Dual Ratchet System hub (36T), straight pull, Center Lock
Axle	Front 12 mm x 100 mm, Rear 12 mm x 142 mm
Cassette compatibility	Shimano 11/12-speed; SRAM 12-speed requires an XDR driver body (SRAM version available); contact us before ordering for other cassette combinations

Specifications sourced from Novatec's official product data (novatecwheels.eu, Novatec Taiwan's official page). Rotor mount is Center Lock only; there is no 6-bolt version.

Jollymap's Recommendation

If you want a disc brake wheelset that balances cruising speed and weight for everyday training and long rides, the R5 Pro+ Gen 5's 50 mm rim height is a good middle ground. If climbing handling is your priority, consider the shallower R4 Pro+; if you mostly ride flat terrain and want maximum aerodynamic benefit, consider the deeper R6 Pro+ Gen 1. Compatibility with your bike's axle spacing, rotor mount and frame clearance should be confirmed before ordering — please share your bike model and current wheelset specs with us.

FAQ

How much does the Novatec R5 Pro+ Gen 5 wheelset weigh?

Approximately 1,315 g per pair (excluding tubeless rim tape), based on Novatec's official data. Actual weight may vary slightly by finish, decals and production batch.

What's different about Gen 5 compared to the previous Gen 4?

Gen 5 is Novatec's newer generation of hub and rim design, still built around the DRS Dual Ratchet System hub, and is officially labelled as the fifth-generation product. Jollymap currently stocks the Gen 5 version — if you need a detailed spec comparison against the previous Gen 4, please contact us.

What's the difference between the R4, R5 and R6, and how do I choose?

All three share the same hub system and materials — the main difference is rim height: R4 is 45 mm (better climbing handling), R5 (this page) is 50 mm (a middle-ground depth), and R6 is 60 mm (most aerodynamic but more affected by crosswinds). See the comparison table above for full details.

What is the maximum load limit?

According to Novatec's official data, the maximum load is 120 kg.

Can I fit a SRAM cassette?

Yes. This wheelset is sold in Shimano and SRAM versions (selectable at checkout); the SRAM version uses an XDR driver body. If you purchase the Shimano version, you can also swap to an XDR driver body later to run a SRAM 12-speed cassette. The hub is also 100% compatible with the DT Swiss 54T ratchet for further upgrades.

Is this wheelset tubeless out of the box?

The rims are Tubeless Ready out of the box and remain fully compatible with traditional clincher tyres and tubes. Novatec states tubeless valves are not included; please contact us before ordering about accessories (e.g. tubeless valves, sealant) needed for conversion.

How should I maintain a carbon wheelset in Hong Kong's humid climate?

Dry the rims and hub surfaces after riding in rain, and avoid storing the wheels somewhere damp for long periods. The hub bearings should be checked and lubricated regularly to reduce the risk of corrosion, and brake pads and rotors should also be checked for wear.

Last updated: September 2026