Originally Posted by
SesameCrunch
I notice the light weight of my 16.4lb carbon bike most when climbing hills. The extra weight makes a huge difference. I can't stay with my usual peers when I'm on any of my folders, which generally are 10 pounds heavier. However, I don't think this is attributable to wheel size - it's purely a matter of weight.
My carbon bike is also noticeably faster in acceleration than my folders. Here, it's a matter of weight and superior wheels/hubs (the 700C wheelset on the bike weighs 1500 grams and has smoooooth hubs
).
Thanks SesameCrunch, that's useful to know. Those bikes are so dear here, I'll doubt I'll get to try one! Maybe on a future trip to SF :-)
I had a gut feeling it would be the weight that was most significant. I've recently had a spell on a 30 pounds bike & when I got back on my Strida, it felt much better :-)
Also I see Moulton's are still doing well in races against 700c wheelers:
http://doocey.net/moultonbuzz/
about half way down the page "Suzuka Endurance Race",
so it does indeed look like small wheels can really hold their own :-)
That was a close one with your MTB crash! Good to see it hasn't put you off riding. I imagine your family had a worrying time!