A Wheel Question

Tommy Luck in Florida is upgrading his wheels and would like our opinion on rims and spokes. Should he go for aero rims and spokes, is carbon an option? This is what we think:

Question:
I am upgrading my wheels and would like your input regarding rim design and material as well as spokes in regard to durability and performance. I ride about 300 miles per week at a moderately fast pace. I would like something light and durable, but also comfortable. It seems some aero rims and bladed spokes may improve aerodynamics but sacrifice ride quality. My bikes currently are all carbon fibre except the wheels.

Hi Tommy.

Aerodynamics is a consideration, but then your only option is to go for deep section carbon rims which are great to ride as they are fast and you do notice a difference, but the ride is quite harsh. Alloy deep section rims are too heavy, so don’t waste your money on them.

Deep section can also be a problem in cross winds, although aero spokes are not usually a problem. The only disadvantage with aero spokes is that they can twist when the wheels are being re-trued. Normal round spokes do not slow you down, so I don’t even think about it.

Low Profile is the best for all round performance with climbing, sprinting, descending and riding on uneven roads.

You don’t mention which equipment you use, but if you are on Shimano I would say you can do worse than look at the Shimano Dura-Ace wheels, we reviewed them recently, check them out here.

If you are on Campagnolo then the Campagnolo Hyperon Ultra Two for tubulars or clinchers. Both are exceptionally light and have carbon rims and hubs.

Fulcrum Racing Light is similar to the Campagnolo offerings with carbon rims but with alloy hubs and are Shimano and Campagnolo compatible. If you don’t want carbon rims then the Fulcrum Zero are alloy and also have aero spokes.

There are many wheel manufacturers, Mavic being one of the best known, the best low profile wheelsets from the French company are the Ksyrium SL, mostly alloy with carbon front hub body. They are not as light as the others, but are a good ride.

My personal choice would be the Campagnolo Hyperon Ultra Two wheels which are exceptionally light at 1345 grams. Lightness is one of the most noticeable changes you can make to your bike; a slight weight saving on the wheels will help the performance of the bike especially when climbing.

I hope this helps?