It is an interesting study that you performed. I have a question for you. You reduced each of your variables in question by 50%. Is there a realistic basis for this, in other words, has it been shown that going from the reference case rim to the most aerodynamic rim possible, results in a Cd reduction of 50%? Is it possible to reduce the mass and inertia of a wheel by 50%? The rolling resistance coefficient?
It makes sense that cutting certain terms in half gives the largest reduction in power, since each term is weighted differently. However, this doesn't tell us if this is practical or not. It may very well be possible to reduce the wheel mass by 75%, but only be able to reduce the coefficient of drag by 10%, therefore it is important to know how aerodynamic wheels change the mass and drag coefficient in order to determine if it is worth the money to buy an "aerodynamic" wheel. So how much reduction in each of these quantities is currently achievable, going from a stock wheel to the various types of race wheels? Going one step further, how much reduction is theoretically achievable?
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"What the mind can conceive and believe, the mind and body can achieve; and those who stay will be champions."
It makes sense that cutting certain terms in half gives the largest reduction in power, since each term is weighted differently. However, this doesn't tell us if this is practical or not. It may very well be possible to reduce the wheel mass by 75%, but only be able to reduce the coefficient of drag by 10%, therefore it is important to know how aerodynamic wheels change the mass and drag coefficient in order to determine if it is worth the money to buy an "aerodynamic" wheel. So how much reduction in each of these quantities is currently achievable, going from a stock wheel to the various types of race wheels? Going one step further, how much reduction is theoretically achievable?
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"What the mind can conceive and believe, the mind and body can achieve; and those who stay will be champions."