New Mavic SLR 45: marketing update or technical revolution?

MAVIC, the iconic French brand relaunched in 2020 by the Bourrelier group, has unveiled an update to its Cosmic SLR 45 Disc, wheels built for performance on road and gravel. Weighing 1,480 g a pair and competitively priced at €1,999, they position themselves as a serious alternative to Zipp or Enve, especially below the €2,000 mark. Keeping the Fore technology and the 23 mm internal width of the previous versions, they bring subtle changes, such as ceramic bearings and new graphics. Is this a real step forward or a marketing adjustment?

What is new: ceramic bearings at last!

The Cosmic SLR 45 Disc continue the line, with a 45 mm rim depth and a 23 mm internal width (32 mm external), already found on the previous models. These dimensions, in line with modern standards, ensure compatibility with tyres from 28 to 64 mm, ideal for road and gravel versatility. Weighing 1,480 g (675 g front, 805 g rear), they remain light for varied routes, from flat roads to rolling hills. Unlike the 32 mm and 65 mm Cosmic SLR, still limited to 19-21 mm internal, the SLR 45 continue to make use of their wide rim and Fore technology for simplified tubeless setup.

The notable new features include:

• Ceramic bearings (MAVIC Ceramic): Mavic, long reluctant to adopt this technology because of its small gain relative to its cost, now fits ceramic bearings, claiming 28% less friction. A shift that seems to respond to market demand more than to a technical need.
• Redesigned graphics: Out goes the fragile laser etching; the reflective “Mavic” decals adopt a premium style, in the manner of Enve or Corima, with potential for customisation.
• And… that’s it!

These changes, although less revolutionary than expected, refine an already solid formula. The €1,999 price strengthens their competitiveness against the competition.

Technical specifications

• Rims:
  • Material: UD 3K T700/T800 carbon, for a balance of stiffness and weight.
  • Dimensions: 45 mm deep, 23 mm internal width, 32 mm external
  • U-shaped (NACA) profile, for an aero gain of 5 watts (according to Mavic) and stability in crosswinds.
  • Fore, with no internal drilling, for airtight tubeless setup without rim tape. Hooked rims for safety.
• Spokes and hubs:
  • Spokes: 20 front, 20 rear, aerodynamic stainless steel (elliptical, anti-rotation). No contact between spokes to avoid unwanted noise.
  • Hubs: Infinity with Instant Drive 360 freehub (light, low friction via a rubber seal). Automatic QRM adjustment for sealed cartridge bearings.
  • Centerlock discs
  • Bearings: MAVIC Ceramic with premium grease and low-friction seals.
• Additional information:
  • Weight: 1,480 g a pair
  • Maximum pressure: 5.5 bar (28 mm); supports 120 kg (bike included).
  • Compatibility: Shimano HG 10/11-speed, SRAM XDR, Campagnolo N3W.
  • Warranty: Lifetime (registration required within 2 months).

My verdict: marketing has won the day

With the Cosmic SLR 45 Disc, Mavic is offering us more of a marketing update than a technical revolution. Ceramic bearings, long dismissed by the brand itself for their low added value, are now fitted – an almost essential box to tick to win over lovers of fine equipment, always on the lookout for that little premium “extra” that makes their eyes light up. But let’s be clear-headed: for the vast majority of cyclists, the gain in smoothness or durability is negligible compared with well-maintained standard bearings. This addition seems above all to meet a market expectation, where the absence of ceramics at €2,000 could put buyers off.

The real strength of the Cosmic SLR 45 remains their proven foundation: Fore technology, still just as effective for hassle-free tubeless, and the 23 mm rim width, which has not changed but remains entirely up to date for comfort and compatibility with wide tyres. On the looks side, the reflective decals are a welcome replacement for the laser etching, often criticised for wearing quickly. They give a premium look and open the door to customisation in the style of Enve or Corima – a real plus for those who like to personalise their kit.

Conclusion

The Mavic Cosmic SLR 45 Disc 23 mm remain a safe bet for all-round cyclists, combining performance, comfort and easy maintenance. Their attractive €1,999 price, universal compatibility and modernised looks make them a credible option against the competition. The ceramic bearings, although overrated, do no harm, and the decals add a premium touch. For enthusiasts looking for a balance between quality and budget, these wheels deserve consideration. With a lifetime warranty, they are aimed at cyclists who want reliable French equipment without going overboard. No revolution here, but a clever update that keeps the Cosmic SLR 45 in the race.