I’m looking at purchasing some race wheels and I’m wondering the pros and cons of getting a rear disc. Here’s a bit of information that may or may not be relevant. I have been doing tri’s for 5+ years and I’m going for an IM this year. My wheels are 650. My home terrain is flat and therefore the majority of my race courses are flat. I wouldn’t label myself an experienced rider.
disc is always good. except in kona, but only because the man won’t allow it.
I used to have a disc but I sold it a few years ago. I went through a spell when I tried to get away from triathlon. I sold off some equipment but never completely abandoned the sport. My disc was one of the items I sold. I wish I had it back. One of the worst things I ever did. Discs are awesome. There’s nothing like one. Get one and use it every chance you get.
disc. It’s not even a question to consider.
Wheelcover from Wheelbuilder is an affordable option to see if you like the handling charactistics of a disc.
A rear disk does not negatively impact on handling and even enables you to run a slightly deeper front wheel, if you’d like. The difference in weight between a decent disk and a decent rear race wheel is neglibile, not withstanding some stupid-light wheels. A wheel cover, fitted carefully, will get you the same aerodynamics as a disk, if you’re really stretched for funds.
Always go with a rear disk, no matter the course.
Lance opted not to go for a disc in his last ITT during the 2005 TdF. I think there are some courses that may require a different set up if one can afford an entire stable of race wheels.
Dave in VA
Bike pros are AWESOME at pedalling.
Not always awesome at evaluating aerodynamic choices.
That said, was that the uphill time trial? Perhaps the weight penalty for his disc in 2005 was too much?
Lance opted not to go for a disc in his last ITT during the 2005 TdF. I think there are some courses that may require a different set up if one can afford an entire stable of race wheels.
Dave in VA
Lance opted not to go for a disc in his last ITT during the 2005 TdF.
And most of the other pros used a disc. Just because he won doesn’t mean that his judgement on that particularly day was correct. He was simply a better rider.
As for the original question, I really like my Flashpoint 60 with the wheelcover. I traded my Zipp disc for it and prefer the comfort of the spoked wheel over the stiffness of the disc. I’ve never had a problem with wind and it rolls really fast even in the hills.
Chad
Cons: weight (not really, but hey, you could be doing a straight uphill race), cost, PITA to inflate (need a crack pipe) and travel (extra care need: can’t use rear on bike top racks, rock damage on rear rack, need wheelbag and care in the car, etc.)
Pros: fastest wheel you can run. Simple as that - and, I assume, that is the reason you are considering one (other than the cool whoop, whoop helicopter sound. Reason enough to get a real disc over a cover to some) 