HED Jet vs. Vanquish: Which Aero Wheel Is Right for You?
Upgrading your wheelset is one of the most impactful decisions you can make as a cyclist. At HED Cycling, we’ve engineered two of the most trusted aerodynamic platforms in the industry: the Jet and the Vanquish. While both deliver exceptional performance, each series is designed with specific riders and use cases in mind.
This guide breaks down the key differences between Jet and Vanquish wheels to help you choose the best option for your riding style, bike setup, and performance goals.
Rim Construction and Design
Jet Series
- Hybrid alloy + carbon design
- Available in rim brake and disc brake versions
- Rim depths: 46mm (RC4), 60mm (RC6), 90mm (RC9), and full Disc
Vanquish Series
- Full carbon rim construction
- Disc brake only
- Rim depths: 45mm (V45), 62mm (V62)
Vanquish Pro Series
- Full carbon design with upgraded hubs and reduced rotational weight
- Rim depths: 45mm (V45 Pro), 62mm (V62 Pro), 84mm (V84 Pro), and full Disc
Performance and Ride Feel
Jet wheels deliver a compliant and comfortable ride, thanks to their hybrid construction. They’re ideal for endurance riders, athletes on mixed terrain, or anyone seeking a balance of speed and ride quality.
Vanquish wheels are built for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. With their full carbon design and sleek profiles, they’re a top choice for time trialists, triathletes, and performance-focused road racers. The Vanquish Pro series enhances this with lighter materials and race-level responsiveness.
Brake Compatibility
- Jet: Compatible with both rim and disc brake bikes
- Vanquish: Disc brake only
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Jet If You:
- Use a bike with rim brakes or want flexibility
- Prioritize comfort, value, and versatility
- Ride a mix of road conditions or long distances
Choose Vanquish If You:
- Ride a disc brake bike and want an aerodynamic edge
- Race in triathlons, time trials, or fast group rides
- Care most about low drag and high-speed gains
Choose Vanquish Pro If You:
- Want our most advanced wheel design, including 84mm deep rims
- Compete at an elite level or demand the absolute best performance
Explore the Lineup
Whether you're a seasoned racer or building your first high-performance setup, the right wheels can transform your ride. The Jet and Vanquish collections offer options tailored to a wide range of riders, bikes, and goals.
If you value climbing efficiency and all-day comfort, the Jet series offers lightweight designs that balance power and control. For those chasing pure speed, the Vanquish series provides deeper profiles that slice through the wind — ideal for racing, training, or fast solo efforts.
Consider: your braking system, terrain, ride conditions, and performance goals. The right wheelset can enhance speed, handling, and confidence.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to a high-performance wheelset is a serious boost to your riding experience. Whether you go with the Jet or Vanquish series, you're investing in aerodynamics, innovation, and proven race technology.
Need help selecting the right wheel? Consult your local HED dealer or reach out to our team for expert recommendations on fit and compatibility.
Explore the full HED lineup and unlock your next level of performance.
✔️ Expert insight by Andrew Hed
Andrew Hed is the Business Development Manager at HED Cycling and the son of founders Steve and Anne Hed. He leads brand strategy, e-commerce, and customer experience. Read full bio →
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