Originally Posted by
mstateglfr
This is an excellent explanation and as stated, I understand the theory. I was simply saying that so far the theory hasnt played out in practice for me.
too.
For what its worth, my 11sp wheelsets arent low spoke count rims so if the theories of 11sp weaker wheels apply more to low spoke wheels, that could be why I havent found my wheels to be weaker or flex more. My 11sp wheelsets are 28/32 and 36/36, and both are properly tensioned.
Actually, high spoke count wheels with wide (11-speed) freehubs suffer.
So you understand the high dish of these wheels leads to drive-side spoke tensions being double non-drive side. Not good. But you also need to know that the non-drive spokes have to maintain relatively high tension under rider weight and pedaling torque, which both tend to loosen spokes once per revolution. If spokes get close to going slack, then the wheel is floppy, and spoke nipples start to unwind.
So if the non-drive spokes need to be tight, then the drive side spokes have to be double tight. Simple geometry.
So you need beefy rims that can handle the high spoke tensions, and tension differentials between the drive and non-drive sides. This is why current rims are so heavy, compared to what was common in the 80s, with 6/7 speeds. Current rims are pigs, adding weight at the worst possible place on a bike.
But every 7 years we need to add another cog to the cassette... Progress! Planned obsolescence!