Originally Posted by
Psimet2001
What I don't like is how the author separates the stiffness of the rim from the "spokes". Yes - deeper rims are stiff, but if you don't have enough spokes you end up with a flexy wheel. Want a stiffer wheel - add more spokes.
That makes sense. My guess is that some Carbon wheels are prone to low spoke count for cost reasons stemming from manufacturing.
Also I would think that there is more shear force acting at the spoke nipple with a deeper rim both latteraly and radialy causing an increased feel of flex. This theory is based on the fact that the connection point is further from contact with the ground where the forces are acting. I think if it is far enough it can act almost as a pivot point and the rim becomes a lever, so the deeper the rim the more leverage it is putting at the spoke nipple.