Jim@EROsports wrote an insightful recommendation in a thread about wheels today. He said “Wheel testing is folly without testing multiple combinations of tires and tire pressures. If you can't do all the testing, just buy HED's as they seem to be the least effected by tires.” The broader application is that there are many friction or aerodynamic products that require systematic testing and analysis to determine a best. And, without the ability to holistically test multiple combinations and interactions, it is difficult to know a best choice for someone’s unique situation.
Therefore, it would be great to have a list of products that are the most likely to be the best or close to the best, absent testing. I am curious what products people would suggest. Based on my memory of SF love, here is a starter list. I will edit and update the post based on input.
Therefore, it would be great to have a list of products that are the most likely to be the best or close to the best, absent testing. I am curious what products people would suggest. Based on my memory of SF love, here is a starter list. I will edit and update the post based on input.
- Helmet: Giro Advantage 2 or Bell Javelin (on a budget); Giro Aerohead (budget permitting)
- Aero Road Helmet: Giro Vanquish
S-Works Evade - Tires: Continental GP 5000 – These are close to the top aerodynamically, Crr, comfort, and durability
- Tubes: Vittoria Latex
- Wheels: HED (what Jim said)
- Cockpit: Alpha X (my opinion based on aero, adjustability, availability, weight, etc.)
- Chain: Premier Ultra Optimized
- Chain Lube: Squirt Dry Lube (wax & fastest) & Lilly Lube (dino-lube)
- Bottom Bracket: Wheels Manufacturing with angular contact bearings
- RD Pulleys: The ones that came on your RD
- Front Brakes: Omega X
- BTA: XLab Versa 200 (my opinion based on value, mounting flexibility, integrated computer mount)
- Computer Mount: Bar Fly (if not using Versa 200 & integrated mount)
- Bento: Xlab Stealth Pocket, DSW, or Torhans BentoX based on best bike fit
- BTS: Profile Design RML
- Tri Suit: De Soto Riviera Flisuit
- Wetsuit: De Soto T1