Wheelset Evaluations (other variables to consider)
 

Most of the time when I read wheelset comparsions the term "acceleration" comes up quite often.

One thing I have learned while researching hubs is that drag within the bearings is vastly different across the board. In fact, one wheelbuilder mentioned that the difference between the overbuilt Chris King hubset and the smaller American Classic front hub was quite noticeable. In fact, he said that if you were coasting down a hill with others and you had Chris Kings you would get left behind (due to bearing drag: differences in bearing surface area/tolerances)

In contrast, the smaller and no doubt more flexible American Classic hub almost wants to spin forever on the stand.


My point is that research in the hub quality of a wheelset is just as important as weight.

You just wanna argue with someone. :p

doesn't he always? :p

You're right, but how does one do a fair comparison? I don't think there is much to go by except what people say about them.

I agree with your point. I think, in general, we put way too much emphasis on the weight of various components instead of the engineering and quality of a component. Light does not always mean better. In addition, reviews are very subjective. What a reviewer finds to be great about a wheelset might really bother me. Other than actually trying a component at the LBS, I'm not sure there is a real good way of comparing products.
On a side note, I own a set of the American Classic hubs. They are wonderful pieces of engineering. It is true that they spin really nice. You can coast forever on these things. In addition, they are a no-brainer to disassemble and maintain.

I had thought of that before regarding kings hubs, however I wouldn't say they are low quality. :eek:

Vastly different? Prove it.

So would a ceramic bearing upgrade be worth it?

i call shena****ns.
bearing drag <<< aero drag. if you're getting dropped on downhill coasting, its because you're fat.

THat's just what he told me, don't shoot the messanger.

As far as aero drag goes I guess it depends how fast you are going. If there was any bearing "drag" effect it would only be noticeable at very slow speeds where air-resistance is not great.


THe Chris King hubs are super high quality. I guess the bearing surface is so large combined with tight tolerances- apparently this is what increases the drag.

Large bearing surface are combined with tight tolerances would be great for doing jumps on a mtn bike though.