When Moultons were allowed in racing in the early days, they proved almost unbeatable. The smaller wheels allowed closer draughting which conferred an advantage to those using them. They were banned as a result. If smaller wheels were slower then they would not have had much advantage.
Also, in speed record velomobiles, smaller wheels are used from build convenience point of view. If they were really significantly slower, they would not be used.
Originally Posted by
ttakata73
http://www.moultonbicycles.co.uk/heritage.html
Check out the Records and Racing section.
The UCI has held back the progress of the road bike for decades to keep competition even. Think how long MTBs have had disc brakes and they are still only testing them in UCI road races. Luckily the manufacturers sell the smarter buying public more progressive bikes with disc brakes, fatter tires, or lower weights than the UCI dictates. It's sort of ridiculous that you can buy a lighter and or safer to ride bike than what the UCI pros ride. A UCI race is becoming a competitive vintage rally.
Thank you both for the excellent history lesson.
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