Disc wheel for lighter riders

Triathlon Forum
1

I’ve been researching/ shopping for a disc wheel and just came across some info that says that lighter riders (less than 140 lbs) may not receive the full advantages of riding with deeper wheels (808 and discs) in crosswinds. Do you guys find this to be true? I’ll be racing IM Oceanside this spring at about 135-136lbs and I know it can get pretty windy coming back into town…I know it’s usually the headwind variety but you never know, or do you? Anyway, if I’m going to throw down the $$$ for wheels, I better be able to take full advantage of it’s benefits, know what I’m saying? Thanks in advance!

PS…Thanks to those who contributed to my earlier post
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/cgi-bin/gforum.cgi?post=4983382;sb=post_latest_reply;so=ASC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;;page=unread#unread

…trying to decide between the Super 9 and Renn…WHOMP WHOMP!

2

weird info. So 141 pounds your safe as houses, but at 139 your better off without a disc? The info is phooey. You wont notice the disc in crosswinds because the disc isnt on a steering axis. Its the front wheel you need to decide on, in terms of depth and wind.

3

Weight has nothing to do with getting aero benefits from a disc.

With regards to handling a disc under windy conditions, as the PP mentioned it’s not an issue…the front wheel is always the limiter.

4

I weigh less than 140lb and I always ride a rear disc and 808 front no matter what. Handling can be a little more difficult in strong gusty winds but never had an issue.

5

Simply no truth to that statement. I would even argue that a lighter rider would benefit more from a disc when combined with a deep front rather a deep front combined with a deep rear. A disc can definitely stabilize a bike in cross winds. (equalization of pressure)

6

A disc wheel is not going to cause you handling problems.

An 808 might, or might not, depending on your skill/comfort level.

404ish is a safe bet

7

World TT Champion, emma Pooley, 106lbs

http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Emma+Pooley+UCI+Road+World+Championships+Day+gb5ZHbrnHJRl.jpg

Women’s Giro Winner, Mara Abbott, 115lbs

http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/abbot.jpg

Olympic Time Trial Gold Medal Kristin Armgstrong, 128lbs

http://media.oregonlive.com/olympics_impact/photo/kristin-armstrong-080112jpg-8ac3391ce4f1c8b5.jpg

Marianne Vos, 128lbs (this example totally irrelevant because she is a better bike handler than anyone man or woman on earth possibly)
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8422/7693978750_5cdb423283_o.jpg

tour of california winner, 138lbs
http://www.steroid-use.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Leipheimer-Announces-His-Retirement4.jpg

triatheltes can do it too! Mirinda Carfrae, 115lbs:
http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Mirinda+Carfrae+2011+Taupo+Ironman+gS6sWVZfWTIl.jpg

8

Where did you get this information? Some guy at a bike shop?

I ask because, when you ask this sort of question at a bike shop, you’ll get either some of the best information or the worst!

9

Don’t forget the other men’s GC contenders! Many, like Nairo Quintana and Purito, are comically small by triathlete standards.

10

2nd place Tour de France Nairo Quintana (and recently won a stage race via time trial) 128lbs

http://www.roadcycling.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Nairo-Quintana-time-trial_C_Movistar.jpg?itok=0yDPWi9Z
.

11

Can you provide a link to where you read that so I can get the full context to what they are saying?

jaretj

12

Tried to retrace my steps to find out where I found that info but can’t seem to find it. I do know that it was from a FAQ section of a bike shop’s website. I simply cut and paste the statement and posted it on ST to see if there was any truth to it. I got my answer…WHOMP, WHOMP it is :slight_smile: Thanks ST.

Can you provide a link to where you read that so I can get the full context to what they are saying?

jaretj