Roval Control SL and Control – which of Specialized’s hardcore XC wheels is best for you?

Roval Control wheels.

For the past three years, I’ve tested Specialized’s Control and Control SL wheels everywhere from World Cup Marathon races to hardcore trail riding to find out if they're the best XC MTB wheels available. So how has their unique carbon rim design held up, how do they feel on track and trail and should you go for the ultralight, aspirational Control SL or the workaholic Control? 

The Control rims have a distinct 4mm wide Flat Top lip to reduce the chance of a pinch or 'snakebite' puncture (Image credit: GuyKesTV)