aero spokes
 

I am thinking about installing aero/bladed spokes because my LBS told me they're more aerodynamic and honestly, they look really awesome. Then I did a search on this forum and people claim they're not really aerodynamic at all when compared to regular spokes. So what's the true story? Are they just stylish, or are they worth the cash?

Matt
CAAD5

80% stylish
20% aero

you need to be up over 38kmh or something (someone correct me) for them to start saving time ove rthe smae number/lacing pattern of standard spokes.

In cross-wind conditions, bladed spokes can be less aero than regular round ones. For most of us in the non-lance catagory, there isn't really a measurable benefit. But, if you like them and can afford them go for it. A light weight wheel is a bigger help than the profile of the spoke IMHO.

If you are asking for the "true story," good luck finding anything but useless opinions versus someone that can actually quote engineering/wind tunnel imperical data. Opinions are cheap. BTW, I have aero spokes, because if nothing else they have killer looks!

Here is an interesting article with test data from Zipp.

Zipp PDF

From the reading I've done, rim shape is more influential than spoke shape, and the combination of rim shape and spoke profile are important to the final result of "aero" advantage. In short, bladed spokes on thier own may have little to no effective advantage. But when paired with a compatible rim profile under some wind and speed conditions DO have advantages. Is that advantage noticable to the "average" recreational roadie? That is a bigger question. It seems that the difference is a few seconds over 20 kms at average to higher speeds. And, under less than favorable conditions, you may actually have more drag with certain wheels/spoke set-ups.

Bottom line is, if you like them go for it. But, don't expect it to put you at the front of the A ride next Saturday. I personally would love to have a set of Ksyriums cause they're strong, light and super cool looking. ;)

I've got them but could care less either way. They simply came with my bike so thats that. I don't notice a difference except perhaps in a cross wind where it forces you off the road. So in that respect I would not get them if I had the choice. Plus it makes truing wheels one step more difficult.