Originally Posted by
rpenmanparker
There is also friction in the wheel bearings, but that is very minor compared to air resistance. In any case the friction probably relates to weight (X the coefficient of friction), but we are talking minor fractions of minor fractions here. Air resistance is the key.
Having said that, it is still quite exhilarating to accelerate a very light bike. It just feels really good.
I agree completely on the last statement.
What about rolling resistance? He's squishing the tires at 230 more than I do at 195 or another guy at 150.
I get the acceleration part....completely makes sense and it is a good parallel to climbing, at least in my mind. But even once he is at top speed, it must take more power to stay there than it would if he dropped 30 lbs. Right?