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Impact on speed

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Old 03-19-12 | 10:45 PM
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Impact on speed

When you look at the various elements on a bike that total to 100%, what percentage does each element contribute to the speed of a bike on paved flat surface? I just listed three broad areas. May need to expand and not summarize as much. I know when I was shopping for my bike, LBS said as you go up in price you are buying parts that would last longer and preform better. Also said lighter weight cause price increase.

When I was shopping for bottle cages, I found a $10 one that weighed 48 grams and a $17 one that weight on 38 grams. I can't see how that little bit of weight difference could make any revelant difference to an adult rider. That is just one example of trying to get an understanding of the value proposition of bike parts.

___% Tires
___% Parts quality
___% Frame weight
100% Total
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Old 03-20-12 | 12:23 AM
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Aerodynamics is King !


When the topic is speed.
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Old 03-20-12 | 12:51 AM
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If you want speed, don't get a Hybrid, get a TT bike.

Hybrids are compromises, you are normally trying to get a mix of speed, comfort (so you arrive fresh, not as the comfort bike) and carrying ability.

After the rider, as Seve noted it's aerodynamics, any people aren't that aero, tires make a big difference with rolling resistance, wheels with rotational weight more so than the frame weight, and components only make a big difference if they don't work; for % no idea as too many variables,
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Old 03-20-12 | 06:01 AM
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More money gets you better performance and lighter weight, but not necessarily longevity/durability.

The biggest factors on speed are the effort of the rider, the environment the rider is in, and the bike the rider chooses for that environment.
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Old 03-20-12 | 07:58 AM
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What about chain ring size and cassette teeth number? That would have to have a major major impact on your speed. You could have a 6kg TT carbon / Ti etc. bike, but if your gear ratio is crap, you could be pedaling like a demon, but going nowhere.
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Old 03-20-12 | 01:18 PM
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Bikes: 87 RockHopper,2008 Specialized Globe. Both upgraded to 9 speeds. 2019 Giant Explore E+3

To actually answer your question-
Tires 96%.
Who cares about the rest.
I use "less expensive" parts, but I match the gearing to my needs.
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