endosch2 wrote:
I dont have aero wheels and I am about to make the investment.
Is there any point to buying 404 front and 808 rear? Or should I just get one or the other.
I wont be using them exclusively for tris, and even with the tris I do a lot are very very hilly.
I'm no expert on aero wheels, I'm ordering my first set today, however I think most will agree that the criteria are more or less as follows:
Deeper = faster
Deeper = heavier
Deeper = wind will buffet the bike more
Front = more important aerodynamically
Front = more susceptible to wind problems (wind can produce a steering influence)
50-60mm is generally considered a reasonable depth for gaining most of the aerodynamic benefits without undue impact on handling in wind or weight.
For general use, including relaxed riding, group rides, poor weather rides and climbing, 50-60mm is probably the deepest that's wise.
You can also fit a wheel cover on your 50-60mm rear if you want the aero benefits of a disk wheel without the cost.
If you want better aero performance you can go to something like 80-100mm front and back or a deep front rim and a disk on the back. Depending on your weight and how confident you are with your bike handling, you may or may not be comfortable using these in windy conditions. They may also be less than ideal on hilly rides or simply when you're not racing.
A common compromise is to use a shallower front rim to minimise handling issues. Typical example would be 50mm to 70mm on the front, and anything up to a full disk at the back. I'm intending to buy a 62.5mm front and 85mm rear. Your 404 front, 808 rear wouldn't be much different. However, I plan to use mine mostly for triathlon and I may put basic shallow rims on for most training rides and group rides especially when it's hilly or windy. 404 front and back may be better as an all rounder solution.