For some reason, I have it in my head that I need new wheels. Something other than the Alexrim DA22 that came stock on my bike.
I really don't know much about wheels or what all is involved in replacing them or how long they should last or anything. Yet, I think I need new ones. Mostly I'm guessing the stock wheels that came on a bike that cost me $650 probably aren't doing anything to help my speed. I admit, I am a little confused by all the bicycle technical mumbo jumbo and am over my head on this one.
But that didn't stop me from doing some research. And the Spinergy XAerolite caught my eye.
So...
Would you consider this a reasonable upgrade/investment from what I have?
Can I move my cogset from my old wheels over or do I need to replace that also?
What should I know or think about that I don't know or haven't thought about before I even consider this?
Thanks in advance and have a fun weekend!!
Sorry Lisa - I'm pretty much completely in the dark about bike, set-up and gear :o(
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts about upgrade - well for me - buy a new bike!!! Which I will reward myself with end of this season or the start of next, whenever there's a good bargain to find!
Happy hunting though!
Well I know pretty much nothing and would ask at the bike shop if possible what benefit you will get. Or if you are looking on line, they often have a number to call with questions. Hopefully, someone knowledgable out there will respond. I know wheels can make a huge difference, but quite truthfully to me, I am not that much into high tech and just want something that won't go flat! For me, just having the luxury of a lighterweight bike has been a big help. I'll be watching to see what you find out.
ReplyDeleteSorry Lisa I'm totally clueless on bike issues. You triathletes have one expensive sport LOL
ReplyDeleteWheels, schmeels... I am sooo not a gearslut... so no advice here. I will be sure to drool over whatever ones you decide on though! :)
ReplyDeleteAdd one more to the don't know list. Uck, sorry. What about some of the triathlon forums like http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/default.asp? I have read lots of great stuff there and maybe someone can answer your question.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your help on the swim workout! I really appreciate it!
Hey Lisa,
ReplyDeleteOkay here is my gearhead opinion. I think if you want to upgrade. Go with a lighter bike first, then lighter wheels. A better bike will be more comfortable.
The lighter the wheels the better for climbing, the less aero depth you don't have to worry about. I do have spinergys PBO I race with.
There are alot of good wheels out there.. EBay works pretty good on getting some good ones at half the cost..
So it all depends on the budget? If you are racing more flat or hilly courses. Sorry about more questions than answers.. BUt just go for the lightest wheels you can afford.. Check out the Mavic wheels also..
If the wheels don't turn themselves... Screw it :-) Your LBS will give you the best advice!!
ReplyDeleteTalk to the Winz!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read about what you do! I have no clue, like most of us.
ReplyDeleteHey Lisa, why do we both seem to think about the same things? ;-) I have also been thinking about new wheels to replace my Mavic Ksyrium Equipe wheels that came with the bike.
ReplyDeleteI have not tried the Synergy wheels, but I think wheels are probably one of the most effective upgrades for a bike - except for getting a lighter bike (frame) as suggested by runbabbaron. My buddies with expensive race wheels testify to the speed advantages of a smooth rolling hub and/or aero set-up does give some advantage.
Without knowing much about your current bike specs, I guess the question is how soon before you get a new bike? If you are intending to hold onto the Giant (?) for some time, the wheels are probably a good investment. You should be able to move your casette (cogset) over, no drama. If you are considering a new bike, sometimes it is more cost effective to get a complete bike with nice wheels. I.e. the wheels are priced better when packaged with a complete bike.
I am thinking of getting aero wheels - something like the Flashpoint FP60s or the HED 60s. I think they will be a "no regret" investment, because I don't think I will be splurging on a Tri bike soon, and even if I do, I can still use them on the new bike as race wheels.
Have fun!
OOPS, did not realise it would be such a LONG comment until after it is posted. ;-)
ReplyDeleteDo speak to your LBS if you have not already. Important to get something that they can support if you are as clueless about bike maintenance as I am. Also be careful that some of these racing wheels may not be built as "strong" as run of the mill wheels - e.g. the hubs may be thin (light) and may not suitable for riding in heavy rain.
I don't have the answer either but I would look at the combination of frame, gears , and wheels in that order. Good luck and I'll be anxious to see how it goes.
ReplyDeleteYou are a smart cookie (new to triathlon, yet right on the money in so many ways). Yes, if you have a limited budget and can only do one thing, do it to your wheels. You get the most (speed) bang for your buck by taking weight off of any rotating part of your bike. Which means, get a hot set of wheels!
ReplyDeleteIn fact, before I was ready to commit to Serra, I was going to go that route - get a new fancy-schmantzy wheelset for my Burley. But then I fell in love... and the rest is history. ;)
Keep us posted on what you decide. AND before and after speeds.