Kapusta

Yes, they ride differently. In MTB use, CF rims are noticeably stiffer. They track better but can be to harsh for some folks. In fact, calming that harshness has been an ongoing process over the last few years.

Anyone who has spent time on various aluminum and CF rims knows there is a difference. Heck there’s even a noticeable difference between various CF rims.

Yes, because “feels”. They “feel” different. What else matters? That IS the ultimate test.

Don’t you work in a bike shop? How on earth do you not know this?

SoSmellyAir

I was alluding to the concept of unsprung weight and its effect on a vehicle's suspension, which affects both handling and comfort. I do not have data but this is a well established concept in suspension tuning. See, e.g.:

Influence of unsprung weight on vehicle ride quality - ScienceDirect

Kapusta

So, if some lab has not produced measurments to explain the differences that people are feeling, then they are not actually feeling it?

What is even the point of doing these measurements when all that really matters IS the subjective experience.

Some folks here have really got a backwards view of of what actually matters in design and reaults.

mstateglfr 

So then that poster is the first person to more concisely label what's being described.
Vertical deflection is what you described earlier at least thats how I also read your post.

chaadster

The fact is no one talked about, mentioned, or referred to “vertical compliance” until you *assumed* that was the issue. It seems the issue is some being unable to imagine the complexities of wheel dynamics and riding conditions as part and parcel of ride quality. Is there any reason to exempt lateral deflection from “ride quality?” Should torsional wind-up not be considered a factor in ride quality? Is there any reason to exclude spoke lacing, type, material, and size from understanding how those elements affect ride quality? Hub flange height and spacing have no impact on “ride quality,” is that what you’d assert? How about bearing count, placement, and type?

As I said before, it defies reason to assume that material properties and mechanical properties don’t have any impact on ride quality. It may be that one rider doesn’t demand from the wheels the same as another rider, for example, a 140lbs touring cyclist on glassy smooth pavement over flat terrain who corners slowly and conservatively will not experience wheel dynamics (i.e. ride quality) in the same way a 240lbs racer on the curving, rough roads of the Appalachian foothills will experience wheel dynamics, but that does not mean all wheels behave the same.

To further illuminate the point: GOKISO