The slower you go, the more benefit there is to aero equipment

|
10-20-2010   #5
asgelle
RoadBikeReview Member

user gallery  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,438
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ghost234
Wait, is 20-21mph your TT speed? If it is, don't bother with spending money on wheels because you won't see any benefit. I wouldn't bother with upgrading wheels until you start breaking 40km/h (25 mp/h) consistently. Put money into an Aero helmet and/or aerobars first, skin suit second, overshoes third and then worry about wheels and TT frames.
A) The slower you go, the more benefit there is to aero equipment*, so it certainly makes sense for the 20 mph rider to invest in aero wheels.

B) Aero wheels are about equal in effectiveness to an aero frame and both are far more effective than aero helmets and skin suits (both of which show wide variations in effectiveness for different models between individuals).

* As measured by time saved. If measured by drag reduction, there is no difference with speed. If measured by power saved, the benefit increases with speed.

And