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.