Slow day here in the tundra that is Chicago. All quotes answered....all parts ordered....all builds that can be built...uh...built....
Never come out here anymore but Facebook is awash with people taking travel selfies to CX nats and dashboard shots of thermometers and the occasional "LOOK AT HOW BADASS I AM I RODE A BIKE TODAY" selfies... *yawn*
I tried to read this whole thing. I made it through the first page. Instead it's much more fun to pick up random posts and poke some fun so...here we go:
Originally Posted by
Fleabiscuit
My Powertap wheelset uses ************* low spoke count ******************* DT Swiss Aerolite spokes and Kinlin rims. I'm around 210 and can easily flex the rear wheel during climbs or sprints (anything above 1,400 watts). When the wheel flexes you can feel the brakes lightly scrub the sides of the rim. Aside from that, they feel very similar to my other heavy duty wheelset.
I am probably a bad example because I admittedly lack the speed of most of the 41, but I can't say one wheelset is faster than the other. The flexy set is more comfy but it could be the tires (conti gp4k). Also, the flexy wheels may not be as safe as the heavy duty set but they have not exploded yet. Will keep you guys posted! Also, I'd let your heavyweight cousin try your bike as long as he buys you new wheels if he destroys yours.
1. Low spoke count - There's your problem. Spoke count does 1 thing - it provides enough tensioning elements supports the rim structure appropriately. It inversely affects aerodynamics and weight. Too many builders bow to the fancy of fashion and build them with too few spokes.
2. Flexing a kinlin....1400W.....sure......
3. Touching brake pads....don't set them so close. You know the brake levers move the whole distance of their throw - not just the first 2mm.
4. A too low spoke count with aero spokes....on a powertap. What's the point? General comment here, but what is a powertap for? Training? Isn't the point to get good numbers? Why house a system that is dependent on the flex of the system in order to produce good numbers (the point of it's existence) in a flexy, poor shell of a wheel? Vanity seems to be the only answer. It's definitely not a reasoned decision made with the intent of using the powertap for better training....when you step back and look at it.
so...have fun with the responses. I may jump back in....may not.