Now in its third generation, Swiss Side has unveiled the latest iteration of its Hadron wheelset aptly dubbed the HADRON³, proclaiming “a new era of cycling performance – the highest bar, now set even higher!” thanks to a deeper, wider rim profile that also sees a reduction in weight that tips the scales as little as 1300 grams in the 38mm variant.
“The 3rd generation of the iconic HADRON³ wheel collection, where speed, handling, and wheel-tire-system optimization meet. Deeper, wider, but lighter wheels, with all new Swiss Side-specific Aero hubs. The HADRON³ series are engineered for further speed and efficiency in 3 key dimensions, combining years of aerodynamic expertise with Swiss Side’s relentless pursuit of maximum performance,” says Swiss Side.
1. Lower Base Drag
- Thanks to a completely re-engineered V-shape rim profile with deeper rim sections, HADRON³ achieves class-leading aero efficiency, reducing drag for maximum speed. In particular, the “base drag” at low yaw angles (frontal airflow), has been significantly reduced, bringing performance gains in all conditions.
2. Best-in-Class Handling
- With a continued focus on stability and predictability in the wind, HADRON³ wheels feature improved control through optimized steering moment and stall behavior, in particular when coupled with the Continental AERO 111 tire. This further enhances rider confidence, especially in crosswind conditions. Despite the deeper rim sections, the handling and stability has been further improved compared to the previous generation of HADRON wheels.
3. Wheel-Tire- System Tuning
- A first in the industry, HADRON³ is optimized for a “Dual Performance” tire setup option. Riders can tune their system depending on wind conditions, and also have full compatibility on tyre sizes and pressures:
- When some wind is present, use Continental AERO 111 tires to maximize overall performance through enhanced sailing effects and even lower aerodynamic drag,without compromise on handling.
- In calm wind conditions or in high-speed time trials, where cross-wind aerodynamic performance and sailing effects play a reduced role, riders can switch to lighter weight, lower rolling resistance tires (e.g. Continental GP5000 TT TR) for unmatched efficiency. Hereby the reduced aerodynamic ‘base drag’ of the HADRON³ wheels at low yaw angles, and improved efficiency from thin-carcass low rolling resistance tires, combine for unmatched overall performance in low wind conditions.
- Furthermore, the HADRON³ wheels, with a new 22mm inner width, are optimized for 28/29mm tire sizes, while providing compatibility and high performance for both narrower (25mm) and wider (30-32mm) tires. The hooked rim construction provides maximum safety, and full compatibility on tires and pressures.
“Every aspect of the HADRON³ wheels have been redesigned and re-optimized. The key characteristics of minimum aero drag with best-in-class handling, synonymous with Swiss Side wheels, have been even further improved upon. Another important step has been the significant reduction in weight, despite the increased rim depths and wider rims. Overall, HADRON³ sets a new benchmark for performance and quality,” says Jean-Paul Ballard, Swiss Side founder and CEO.
Here’s how the models break down:
HADRON³ Ultimate:
- Maximum performance with deeper rims, lightweight construction, Swiss SIde specific, DT Swiss 180 Aero hubs, SINC ceramic bearings, and reduced Aerolite-II spoke count.
- Available in 550/680*/850 depths. MSRP: € 2,699, Swiss Side online price: € 2,159.
HADRON³ Classic:
- Offers speed at an accessible price, sharing rim shapes with Ultimate but with a cost-efficient build, with Swiss Side specific, DT Swiss 370 Classic Aero hubs, and Aerolite-I spokes.
- Available in 550/650/850 depths. MSRP: €1,869, Swiss Side online price: €1,495.
FULL SPECIFICATIONS IN THE TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT PAPER HERE
*Swiss Side is awaiting clarity from the UCI about the legality of the 68mm deep Ultimate 680 wheel for 2026, in light of the unexpected ruling from June 20, 2025.
Where to Buy
The all-new HADRON³ wheels will be available worldwide at www.swissside.com, as well as through Swiss Side’s retail partners.
