300g vs aero?

[chris414]

Hey.  Which would be a better buy: Easton ascents II or Spinergy Stealth PBO considering the type of races we hav in CT (ie. not exactly climbing huge TDF passes)?  Is the 300g i would save by getting the Ascents worth sacrificing all aero advantages i would get from PBOs?

 

Would it be stupid to only own a pair of deep sections without having sum normal wheels as well?

 

Chris

[BikeMax]

I would go deep section on balance - I have both and always find myslef choosing the deep section over the lighter wheels for racing in CT.

[BaieSukkel]

Weight and aerodinamics should be expressed as a wattage required aspect.

 

Next to the rider's riding position, wheels are the greatest drag producing factor on a bike because of the speed they're turning and the spokes moving through the air. The longer the spokes, the more the drag they produce. The fatter the spokes, the more drag as well.

 

So therefore you would want a deep section rim, not only will that reduce the length of the spoke but also the shape of the rim allows the airflow to be smoother over and behind the rim.

 

All this must take into acount the race profile, but if 300g is in it - I'll go for aerodinamics.

 

 

[Joss]

Chris 414 have you looked at the Easton TempestII alu wheelset. Very light and rigid and has a 38mm dish and not too expensive. Unbelievable hubs same as in the carbon wheel. The problem i found with sinnergy is backup. Spares is not always avaiable.

[Prince]

Got to agree iwth BaieSukkel. Go with aero because as you note in your opening post " no TDF type passes"

[chris414]

Thanks guys.  But is it possible to only own a pair of deep sections or do i hav to hav another pair as well in case it is windy?  If you ride on a windy day with deep sections will the bike just be more difficult to control or will it actually slow you down at all?

[BikeMax]

Unless it is very windy then I have never had a problem - even with 58mm deep 404's

 

deep section are faster in the wind too - they deflect all wind better. They are also stiffer and more durable due to shorter spoke length. Maybe a good compromise is a 30-40mm depth ( I have Reynolds Alta's at 32mm)

 

[Prince]

I ride 55cm Hed Alps and wind has never been an issue.