Wheelsets - Aerodynamics vs Weight

[kingjreid]

i was just wondering, which is the way forward....

 

is is better to buy a heavier deep section wheelset (say 1800g) or a lighter clincher wheelset (say 1300g)? in the eternal quest to find reductions of the smallest bit of weight i find it strange that people will often equip a top end road bike with rather heavy wheels...

 

sorry for my ignorance and thanks in advance

 

[Gumpole]

aerodynamics are a lot more important than weight for guys going fast (40 - 50km/h), even on hilly courses.

 

these guys will also have light weight wheels that are used on mountain climbs, although these days you can easily get a bike that weighs the UCI minimum AND have aerodynamic wheels

 

[shade]

they will 'often equip a top end road bike with rather heavy wheels ' if the the race course is of a flatter nature. You wont see Mavic Carbone's on a hilly stage..but you will see Zipp404's as they more than half a kilo lighter than the Carbone's..

If you cant afford the lighter DS wheel, noting that they are likely tubbies too, then rather go for a lighter clincher.