Custom Build Aero Wheelset
 

Hi Guys,

i am new to tandem sports and therefore would like to ask you a question concerning a wheelset.

Well, i`d like to build up an aero wheelset for my road race tandem, where the total weight (including riders and bike is about 145 - 150 kg). Basic components would be an 82mm deep carbon rim (32 holes) and a mountainbike disc brake hub (32 holes). The spokes are gonna be DT New Aeros. Both wheels would be spoked up triple crossed. The braking should be done by a mechanical Avid BB7. The fork is a massive stiff alloy fork with a steel steering tube.

I chose the disc brake, because the tandem should be ridden in the flat lands as well as in the low mountain ranges. Now it`s like a quandary. I`d like to use the carbons. If i do so, the disc helps me to reduce the thermal stress to the rim and guarantees a solid braking. On the other side it increases the stress on fork and spokes. Looking on Cantilevers, the picture turns the opposite way.

I´d like to know if there is someone using carbons, or if you anyone has an experience with this issue. Do you think this project is gonna work out or do you think it is critical? I mean i have to take responsibility for 2 people. If it was only me i wouldnt care so much, but I`m not a madman. Should i better use the Cantilevers? Do you know about the Rolf Vigor Tandem wheelset? What spokes would you recommend? How do they manage to reduce the spoke count to 20/24 - i mean must obviously be working somehow...

I would be very pleased if somebody could drop me a short answer,

kind regards, Jens

just spoke to Peter White Cycles on a similar question:
275lbs team looking for light wheelset for group rides (no additional weight).
He recomended 32 spoke front with Fusion rim and 36 spoke rear on a Deep V

I know that the Velocity alloy rims or anything alike will take the weight. But i was about carbon...

Being 'new' to the tandem sport, we suggest you first get in a few thousand miles on this 2-seat machine before committing to c/f wheels to 'race' this tandem.
Experience is the best teacher.