I posted this on Gordo’s board but wanted to get your guys input as well. A couple of years ago before I knew any better I bought a set of Rolf Vector Pro racing wheels. Dealer talked me into it. Well-2 years later I’m beginning to regret. It seems everyone has Hed 3’s or Zipp 404’s. I race 1/2 and full IM w/ a bike split of 2:30 for 1/2 and 5:30 or so for a full. Would ditching the Vector Pro’s and getting the Hed or zipps make a big difference in my time? Like 8-10 minutes or would it be very small(1-2 minutes).
thanks
The short answer is that it would probably save you a couple of minutes at most.
The easiest way to tell more accurately would be to plug some numbers into analyticcycling.
http://www.analyticcycling.com/DiffEqWindCourse_Page.html
They have drag numbers for vectors (pretty close to pros) as well as a variety of other wheels, and a few courses to plot them on. This analysis is the real deal, and it’s proven to be very close to actual outdoor figures. Just pay attention to all the fields you put in, e.g. accurate estimated wind speeds, bike and rider mass, etc., as they make a big difference.
John,
You did good buying the Rolf wheels. Especially when you factor other things into consideration like customer service and durability.
In my case, I own Rolf Vector Pro’s and they are great wheels. Strong and durable. On the other hand, I’ve own 909s and 404 and found Zipp wheels to be less durable and their customer service was aweful. In fact, Zipp’s customer service was so bad I’ll never ride one of their wheels again. Fortunately there are other options, like other smaller companies who are making great wheels and stand behind their product.
For the price race wheels cost these days, other factors must be taken into consideration before buying a wheelset. Just my 2 pennies. Happy Training.
I cyclo-crossed on rolf wheels, they are bullet proof.