Originally Posted by
merlinextraligh
I've got a bunch of different wheelsets from the lightest at 1175 grams up to probably 1700 grams. A bike definitely feels lighter and more responsive with lighter wheels.
For example I have a pair of Zipp 404 clinchers, with Al rims that are reasonably heavy. You can feel a difference getting them up to speed compared to a light set of conventional wheels.
Admittedly, my anecdotal accounts of "feel" aren't scientific, and you could argue there's a plecebo effect. But even if it is a plecebo effect, whatever the cause, lighter wheels are more fun to ride.
Do you really feel no downside of lighter wheels Merlin? Do you believe they 'feel' as good as heavier wheels? I don't dispute the spool up difference...or even climbing difference carrying a heavier wheelset up hill...or even placebo has some veracity as you imply. So I believe there is some quantifiable performance difference albeit neglegible for non racers. But feel? To me, heavier wheels have better ride qualiy. To me lighter wheels transmit more road noise aka telegraph road imperfections more readily due to reduced mass. Basically conservation of momentum. Light rims and even very stiff light rimmed wheels...the front wheel in particular that steers..deflects more in terms of torque steer over rough road surfaces. That is my experience.