General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Aluminum Wheel Advice Rss Feed  
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2014-07-18 11:59 AM

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, Illinois
Subject: Aluminum Wheel Advice
There are tons of discussions about carbon wheels but I can't find much about aluminum wheels. Based on my skill level I think I can benefit from better wheels but can't justify the expense of carbon.

Here is where I'm currently at:
I'm 5'8", 170lbs
ride a 2009 Jamis Comet with Alex ALX270 wheels
raced 1 sprint+ distance, and did 15.5 miles at exactly 18.0mph but I think I should be in the high 18's (hoping for 19) in my next race based on my training speeds.

I think my current wheels weigh a combined 1870g (front 795g, rear 1075g) and from what I've read the wheels are fair quality and on the heavy side. I think they'll make a good set of trainers.

Based on what I've read on the site (Thanks to everyone that contributes) I think I want to look for a nice set of aluminum clinchers with latex tubes, and run a 23 in the front and a 25 in the rear.

My questions:
1. Am I on the right track with my desired set up?
2. I am most likely going to buy used so I won't have total choice of brands but are there any brands to stay away from?
3. Any brands that are considerably better than others?
4. What is a good weight for a set of aluminum wheels?

Thanks, any advice is appreciated


2014-07-18 12:30 PM
in reply to: ec1974

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Alberta
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice

Originally posted by ec1974 There are tons of discussions about carbon wheels but I can't find much about aluminum wheels. Based on my skill level I think I can benefit from better wheels but can't justify the expense of carbon. Here is where I'm currently at: I'm 5'8", 170lbs ride a 2009 Jamis Comet with Alex ALX270 wheels raced 1 sprint+ distance, and did 15.5 miles at exactly 18.0mph but I think I should be in the high 18's (hoping for 19) in my next race based on my training speeds. I think my current wheels weigh a combined 1870g (front 795g, rear 1075g) and from what I've read the wheels are fair quality and on the heavy side. I think they'll make a good set of trainers. Based on what I've read on the site (Thanks to everyone that contributes) I think I want to look for a nice set of aluminum clinchers with latex tubes, and run a 23 in the front and a 25 in the rear. My questions: 1. Am I on the right track with my desired set up? 2. I am most likely going to buy used so I won't have total choice of brands but are there any brands to stay away from? 3. Any brands that are considerably better than others? 4. What is a good weight for a set of aluminum wheels? Thanks, any advice is appreciated

Personally, I would work on the engine (training) before I spent more money on wheels. More time in the saddle.

2014-07-18 12:40 PM
in reply to: ec1974

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Pro
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Melbourne FL
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Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice

Don't worry about the weight.  Worry about the aerodynamics.

Look at the FLO Cycling wheels for a good bang for the buck, they also pop up for sale every so often on the other site.  Also look into Wheelbuilder diskcovers or if your handy make your own.

Run Conti GP4000S or Conti Attack/Force combo with latex.  Have to be somewhat careful with tires as they are often bigger than advertised and need to ensure the frame has the clearance for a large rear tire.  At 170lbs a 23mm tire should be fine for you.  I'm 175-180 and ride GP4000s 23mm at 95-110 psi without issues.

 

2014-07-18 12:46 PM
in reply to: Donto

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Eden Prairie, MN, Minnesota
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice
Originally posted by Donto

Don't worry about the weight.  Worry about the aerodynamics.

Look at the FLO Cycling wheels for a good bang for the buck, they also pop up for sale every so often on the other site.  Also look into Wheelbuilder diskcovers or if your handy make your own.

Run Conti GP4000S or Conti Attack/Force combo with latex.  Have to be somewhat careful with tires as they are often bigger than advertised and need to ensure the frame has the clearance for a large rear tire.  At 170lbs a 23mm tire should be fine for you.  I'm 175-180 and ride GP4000s 23mm at 95-110 psi without issues.

 




x2 on the Wheelbuilder Disc cover. For $100 you'll get most of the benefit of a disc wheel at 1/10 the price.
2014-07-18 12:50 PM
in reply to: Farlig

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Boise, ID
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice

 

What kind of budget are you working with?

A set of Flo 30's might be nice, but they are not going to give you a bunch of free speed.

If you are looking for cheap speed go with the latex as suggested (I don't use them personally, too risky IMO). Or better yet, buy an aero helmet. You can pick up a helmet for $100 and it will give you a decent amount of free speed.

2014-07-18 1:49 PM
in reply to: ec1974

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Knoxville area
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice
for racing...

buy the deepest front wheel you can handle and a disc cover.

You weigh 170, don't sweat wheel weight.


2014-07-22 10:07 AM
in reply to: Leegoocrap

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, Illinois
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice
I completely understand there is a ton of improvement to be had on training. This project would be more of a reward to me (I'm trying to get to 20mph average for 15M) and a way to keep me engaged over the winter. I really like the idea of building my own since this is probably more about the project than the actual wheels.

On a side note I thought about the aerodynamic comment and during my rides this week I really concentrated on it. I moved more forward on the seat and really concentrated on keeping my knees in tight. I think that's where my "free speed" is, it made a very noticeable difference. I think bang for buck may be in a professional bike fit.
2014-07-22 6:08 PM
in reply to: ec1974

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Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice

Treat yourself to a nice Kurt Kinetics fluid trainer (or if you have a trainer great), learn about power training and do this BT training plan power mode.  I went from low-mid 20's to mid 22's doing it and was able to run better off the bike because I was in much better shape.

Treating yourself to goodies is always a great carrot at the end of a stick.  I built up a new bike this past winter (well the bike shop built I compiled the frame & components!)

2014-07-23 10:20 AM
in reply to: ec1974


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Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice
Originally posted by ec1974 I think bang for buck may be in a professional bike fit.


If you haven't had a professional fit by a legit fitter is spend your coin there first. You may be able to get some free speed by getting more aero or making adjustments that allow you to put out more power or be more efficient, etc.
2014-07-23 10:53 AM
in reply to: ec1974

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Montague Gold Mines, Nova Scotia
Subject: RE: Aluminum Wheel Advice
I would not upgrade to another wheelset unless you were going to be getting a significantly more aerodynamic wheel (such as Zipp, Hed, Flo, etc), otherwise you'll likely see very little benefit.

As has been mentioned, weight is pretty much meaningless in triathlon applications and is far less important than aerodynamic improvements. For that reason, I would echo the advice to consider a rear cover which, while heavier, will improve your aerodynamics and result in being faster on pretty much any tri bike course.

Shane
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