Parcours has introduced the Strade GT, the first wheelset in its latest GT Series. Featuring reclaimed aligned carbon fiber, it is based on VibraCore technology, developed in collaboration with Lineat and Nottingham Trent University.
Innovative technology
VibraCore was developed around the idea that reducing vibration through the wheel system helps riders stay fresher for longer, enabling them to ride faster and farther. Lineat’s AFFT technology integrates reclaimed aligned carbon fiber directly into the rim’s spoke bed, dampening vibration at a structural level.
The solution alters how that vibration travels through the rim structure, reducing the energy transmitted through the system. Certain frequency ranges have been identified as the most important, either because the body amplifies them or because they drive muscular fatigue. By incorporating Lineat’s AFFT recycled carbon material into the rim structure, the system can reportedly absorb and dissipate vibrational energy before it reaches the rider.
The technology specifically targets the frequency ranges most strongly associated with rider‑perceived road buzz, the high‑frequency vibrations that make rough roads feel harsh and fatiguing.
At typical road pressures, testing shows that VibraCore provides a reduction in root mean square (RMS) vibrational energy equivalent to lowering tire pressure by around 10-15psi, without the associated trade-offs in rolling efficiency or handling precision. This allows Strade GT to deliver a calmer, more controlled ride over long distances, while maintaining the stiffness, responsiveness and aerodynamic performance expected of a high-performance wheelset. According to Parcours, this is all achieved without compromising on weight, stiffness or durability.
Testing the concept
To validate the performance of VibraCore, Parcours conducted controlled testing, in partnership with Nottingham Trent University, across multiple riders and surfaces in a real-world environment. Vibration sensors were used to capture ride data, and the results were then analyzed in the frequency domain using power spectral density (PSD), with integrated energy and RMS values used to quantify differences in performance.
Aggregated across all testing, the data showed that rims using VibraCore reduced vibration energy by 19-23% compared with an equivalent rim without the technology.
Parcours said the outcome is a noticeably calmer ride on rough surfaces, with reduced high-frequency road buzz and lower cumulative fatigue over longer durations.
Technical spec
The Strade GT continues Parcours’ focus on aero performance through research and development. The rim profile is an evolution of the existing Strade platform, with aerodynamics and handling stability optimized around a 30mm tire. The 1,130g Strade GT outperforms the current model Strade aerodynamically by 3.2W (at 48km/h), improving handling stability by 15%. Alpina Carbolite spokes have been selected (21F/24R) due to their narrow bladed cross-section, giving compliance close to that of a steel spoke while also being extremely lightweight.
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