Originally Posted by
cplager
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%.
And that rotating mass difference only matters when accelerating and decelerating. Heavier wheels accelerate AND decelerate more slowly. Total time over a course at a constant power will be identical, whether the weight is in the wheels, on the frame, or in the belly. Momentum is momentum, mass is mass, energy is conserved. Physics 101.
All these "I feel the difference" comments are irrelevant.