Too small to feel power wise? In terms of comfort I don't really care, but power transmission is definitely key for me, and very noticeable. My CAAD10 is amazingly stiff, but I've had brake rub issues with my 28h rear wheel (admittedly, I keep my calipers very tight, no longer the case though). On the other hand, my track bike, which is steel has MAJOR frame flex issues. The wheels are 32h, 42mm deep alloy, high flange hub, bladed spokes, so they're as stiff as wheels get.

During major sprints my rear tire will leave a skid mark on the drive side chain stay.

That definitely isn't too small to notice, and definitely not hype. Stiffness is an issue for a lot of us.


Edit: bigfred and I literally just said the same thing.