Hello all,

I am currently riding on Velocity Aerohead 20mm wide rims, and I am looking to 'upgrade' to 23mm or 25mm wide rims (such as the HED Ardennes plus, Easton EA90 SL, Pro-lite Bortola A21W etc.)

I run 25mm wide Continental GP4000II tires.

Now, there doesn't seem to be a consensus on whether wider rims actually make a difference in terms of rolling resistance, handling and comfort.

This article: https://intheknowcycling.com/2016/04...s-wheel-sizes/
seems to advocate wider rims, but doesn't really back it up with hard data, other than some drawings showing tire / rim interfaces.

This article: Implications of Rim Width - Slowtwitch.com
says that wider tires definitely make a difference, but the benefits of wider rims are not that clear. They say the difference in rolling resistance has not been proven, and the difference in comfort and handling is subjective and very hard to determine. Furthermore, the rim widths of different manufacturers seem to be all over the place, indicating that there is no consensus on wider rims.


So my question: Do you guys think I will notice a difference in comfort and handling going from 20mm to 25mm rims? What about going only to 23mm (easier to find). (I'm not so much worried about the rolling resistance)

Does anyone have any experience in making this change? Is it worth it?

Thanks!