Originally Posted by
DogBoy
It isn't just the overall weight, its where the weight sits. If you have to spin the weight, you will be slower than just strapping on the weight, so lighter wheels, tires, pedals and shoes do a lot for speed and reduced effort. That said, the best way to reduce effort is just to slow down and gear down. If speed matters on your commute, you are bound to be frustrated by lights/stop signs and traffic that will slow you down much more than weight. Just my $.02.
For purposes of acceleration, the weight of the tires/rims (but not hubs) counts as a factor of two because of the rotational energy. But light set of wheels are what? 0.5 kg lighter than a heavier set? So, factor of two, we're talking an effective total of 1kg. Compared to a 50kg rider, we're talking 2%. For climbing, heavier wheels is the same as a heavier bike. For top speed on the flats, it matters almost not at all.
Finding tires that have lower rolling resistant tires can make a big difference.
Cheers,
Charles