What difference does rim depth make?

On an elementary level, the deeper your rim’s profile is the more aerodynamic it will be. To create a deep section wheel requires a bit more carbon-fibre material. This will increase its weight, but research has proven that over most racing and training distances, the reduction in drag offsets any increase in mass.

What is the ideal rim depth?

Rim depth is broadly speaking a trade off between weight and flat speed. Shallow 25 – 40mm Can be lighter, great for hill climbing and accelerating. Mid depth 40 – 60mm – Is often the best all-round option – relatively light for climbing, whilst still fast on the flat – best of both worlds.

Are deeper wheels better?

Normally deep-section rims come out on the fast, flat stages, while shallower lightweight rims get bolted on for the mountains. Most efficient on the level, and of greater benefit when riding alone or in a smaller group, a set of conspicuously deep rims can even signal a rider fancies getting in the break.

Is wheel size important on a bike?

The size of your wheel determines the level of rolling resistance you will get on the trails. Having a bigger wheel base allows you to overcome bigger obstacles. The log will meet your bike at a higher point on the wheel than it would on a 27.5 or 29 inch bike, and at a steeper angle as well.

Why are deeper wheels faster?

“Generally, deep-section wheels offer significant aero drag benefits over traditional shallow rims so that a rider can go faster for the same effort, or the same speed for less effort,” says Chris Yu, Specialized’s head of aero and tech. >>> “Deeper wheels are also heavier than shallower wheels.

Are deep rim wheels stronger?

The reason a deep section wheel is helpful is that the deeper cross section is much stiffer, i.e. harder to deflect, than a rim with a shallow depth. The strongest, most durable wheels have deep section rims, lots of spokes (think 32 and up) along with a well designed hub.

Are 50mm wheels worth it?

50 hold speed better. If you live in a pretty windy place, the 50mm could prove to be a bit much to handle in any sort of cross winds. But the differences are small between these two rims. Rim / wheel stiffness / spoke count & tension/air pressure/rider weight & rider skill does effect ride quality also.

How tall should you be to ride a 27.5 bike?

Mountain bike size chart

What is the ideal rim depth for a road bike?

Most riders would strike a comfortable compromise with wheels that have a rim depth of between 40-65mm, offering adequate aerodynamic benefits without too much additional material and mass to rotate. A significant caveat with wheel depth is wind loading.

What affects the stability of a road bike wheel?

The stability of a wheel is affected primarily by rim depth and profile. The deeper the rim profile, the more aerodynamic the wheel will be, however, the trade-off is that the deeper the profile, the more it will be subject to getting knocked around by crosswinds. For lighter riders (under 150lbs) this can prove to be an obstacle.

How much wheel depth do you need for optimal aerodynamics?

The balance between an increase in rotational mass and the improved aerodynamic properties are where your wheel depth decision logic should apply. Most riders would strike a comfortable compromise with wheels that have a rim depth of between 40-65mm, offering adequate aerodynamic benefits without too much additional material and mass to rotate.

How does wheel depth affect performance?

This will increase its weight, but research has proven that over most racing and training distances, the reduction in drag offsets any increase in mass. The balance between an increase in rotational mass and the improved aerodynamic properties are where your wheel depth decision logic should apply.