SHOULD WEIGHT BE THE ONLY FACTOR CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING A WHEELSET?

What about cost, durability, and the efficient transfer of power? Is a lighter wheel always faster? The numbers below suggest otherwise.

The video above demonstrates does NOT feature Encore Wheels.
It is an example of equipment failure, probably due to underbuilding to save weight.

Tests conducted by Frank J. Fedel, MS, CES. Frank’s Bio can be found here: http://www.fedel.com/bio/ The athlete used for this test is an Ironman Gold, All-World Athlete, and 14-time Ironman finisher. Tests were performed on a lightly traveled road in a state park on asphalt surface. Course included varied conditions, including rolling hills.

ENCORE WHEEL SPECS:
Front 700c clincher, 45mm rim depth, 1475 grams, stiff 5 spoke carbon.
Rear 700c clincher, 45mm rim depth, 1645 grams, stiff 5 spoke carbon.

COMPETITOR WHEEL SPECS:
Front 700c clincher, 58mm rim depth, 728 grams, 24 spokes.
Rear 700c clincher, 78mm rim depth, 826 grams, 24 spokes.

First Test – April 22, 2017

Looped course — 39 miles

Second Test – April 29, 2017

Looped course — 30 miles

Third Test – May 20, 2017

Hilly course — 25.53 miles

Fourth Test – June 20, 2017

Hilly course — 25.53 miles

Important to note is that there was no significant performance difference between the two wheelsets. In general, the Encore wheels performed as well as the high priced, deep carbon rim wheelset due to a combination of aerodynamics, efficient power transfer and increased stability. Plus, the Encore wheels retail for significantly less than the competition. Furthermore, Encore wheels do not have to be trued, are made in the USA, available in a multitude of colors, and if a wheel is ruined in an accident, it can be traded in for a new wheel at a substantial discount.

#ENCORECHALLENGE