Originally Posted by
WTBATS
I have an opportunity to upgrade wheelsets from the clinchers that I have now to tubulars.
I'm doing the math and the tubulars weigh significantly more. I understand that aero > weight, but is it worth gaining over half a pound in the wheels?
Data:
Current:
Upgrade:
For 99.9% of club, local, regional type racers, the difference in their performance on these two sets of wheels will be negligible. Basically, if you aren't going over roughly 40mph, you won't experience any difference. Even then, the differences will be very small.
How do I know?
I've raced at least a dozen track wheelsets. Everything from basic clincher training wheels to the Mavic Io/Comete set. There are differences, but the two you are comparing above are very similar in performance.
Use the ones that you think are cool and make you feel fast
(seriously)
Also, tubular cost more and take a lot of time (and maybe $ if you pay someone to do it) to change. Consider that, too.