Originally Posted by
Banzai
So, getting ready to build up a new wheelset (it's a sickness, I know), and I was having some thoughts.
At what depth are there actual "aero" benefits?
Even 25mm can be significant. You just need to stay away from "bad" rims like the venerable Open Pro to have improved aerodynamics, especially at a 0 degree yaw angle. A23s are almost a box section rim.
From
FLO's wind tunnel testing Note that 30, 60, 90mm deep rims with aerodynamic aspirations start out about the same pointing into the wind.
Pacenti SL23: 23.5mm wide, 27(?)mm deep. Depth will add some strength obviating a bit of the need to balance tension but it still won't be as balanced as the A23. Maybe some aero benefit as well.
The question; is there any "real" benefit at that depth?
Yes. You'll get better aerodynamics and a rim that's harder to bend on potholes. Tension won't be as balanced, although you can usually go higher on deeper rims, and if you use thin enough spokes at least on the non-drive-side even that doesn't matter.