Training Wheels / Race Wheels

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2012-03-20 2:21 AM


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Subject: Training Wheels / Race Wheels

Hopefully on the forum there is no such thing as a "dumb question".  I hear lots of talk about race wheels and training wheels.

I dont really understand - the bike comes with wheels so arent they training wheels - what am I missing.  And then race wheels - I've seen some serious looking wheels as bike rack for IM etc, but have no idea what the difference is between them all - ie some have small rims and some have massive ones (if rims is the right term).  And how do they make a difference.

Hopefully this isnt too naive a question.  I've tried researching it online but not finding it easy to find the answers.

Thanks.



Edited by ChrisHaru 2012-03-20 2:21 AM

2012-03-20 2:48 AM
in reply to: #4104138


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Subject: RE: Training Wheels / Race Wheels
Training wheels refer to what you ride day to day.  They usually have a shallow rim.  Race wheels have much deeper rims like you noticed.  They start about 50mm and get deeper from there, going as far as a disk on the back wheel.  These wheels are more aerodynamic and a good pair can save you 1-2 minutes per 40k.  They don't typically come sheap though.  Zipp and Hed are two of the more popular brands and their websites have lots of good info.

Edited by rexcoltrain 2012-03-20 2:48 AM
2012-03-22 1:39 PM
in reply to: #4104138

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Subject: RE: Training Wheels / Race Wheels
So, yes what was said above. But a nice set of deep dish wheels will also save you energy on the bike. When I raced on my everyday wheels (training wheels) I would average 20-21mph and be pretty spent after the bike. Now I have a pair of Zipps (1080 front, sub-9 back) and can average 22mph on the bike and feel pretty good coming off. I'm sure some of the increase in speed is due to training, but aero wheels allow you to be more efficient.
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