Tire/rim aerodynamics

Triathlon Forum
1

In the following article: http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/techctr/windtunnel.html Steve Hed states that:

“Tire shapes and brands make a big difference. You can make the best wheel slow by putting the wrong tires on it. Finding a tire that fits the general profile of the rim is huge. Those tires whose tread had an abrupt junction with the casing were really bad; the tread’s interface with the rest of the tire underneath has to be smooth and seamless if low drag is what you want.”

However, he doesn’t name any names as to what tires work best! I’m running a Hed 3 front and a Hed Disc rear, both clinchers. Does anyone know of any resource where I might find a study of tire compatibility or does anyone have any first-hand opinions?

2

I don’t know the answer. But in my view the speed gains from being able to corner fast, reducing rolling resistance, and increasing puncture resistance outweigh any negligible differences in drag.

“Tire shapes and brands make a big difference”

Shapes - perhaps. Brands? most certainly not!