I competed in my first 1/2 Iron distance event of the year this weekend, and have a set of Hed Jet 60's with WheelBuilder wheel covers. At this distance, I seem to be averaging in the 21-22 mph range to try to not blow up on the run (but blow I did in the 85+ weather -- but this is for another topic).

At this weekend's race the wind picked up during the bike leg (High Cliff 1/2), with long stretches in direct crosswinds and lots of head-on stuff towards the end. The bike handled the wind just fine; I was impressed with how I wasn't tossed around. What I don't like is the added noise and weight to the back of the bike. I know it is not much, but when my concentration goes from thinking about the road ahead and my pacing, to thinking about the noise and weight bouncing around below me, I'd rather take the piece-of-mind rather than a marginal time advantage. Wheelcovers do not sound great on bumpy roads.

Now, as I understand the wheelcovers "should" give me a greater aero advantage than with the 60's by themselves. But how much? At my average speed I'll keep the wheelcovers if there is a significant time savings; but if we are talking a minute or so than with the 60's by themselves then I'll take these off and put my mind at ease. I also don't like the "tape-it" method; I find keeping parts affixed by electrical tape as an inelegant solution.

The next 1/2 is in a month, on another hilly, rolling course so there will be plenty of accelerating and some out-of-the saddle moments. And hopefully running well off the bike.

Thanks.