As we start thinking about the road and mountain bike races coming up (like Ride Joburg), we’re also thinking about how best to prepare.
Yes, I’m talking about training, but also preparing your bike for better reliability & speed.
We invest so much time and money in training for races, entry fees and on our bikes, that it’s tragic when we don’t have the best race-day experience.
When it comes to your bike, some things really affect speed, others don’t. This may be a bitter pill to swallow, so buckle up.
Upgrading from 11-speed to 12-speed probably won’t make you faster (sorry about that).
Upgrading your brakes to ones with better modulation and power may give you more confidence in technical sections and may make a real difference.
Here are 3 things to consider when it comes to your wheels that will make a noticeable difference and help you finish that road or MTB race in less time:
- Upgrade to more aerodynamic wheels for road races & lighter wheels for MTB
- More aero wheels will make you faster – it’s based on science and all the info you need is here: https://wheelbuilder.co.za/aero-vs-weight/
- Lighter wheels (even lighter MTB rims) makes a huge difference in mountain biking, as we are continuously accelerating and decelerating through the trails. The most important component being the rims as they are the outer rotating element with the most inertia.
- Focus on reliability. Something as simple as a broken spoke could cost you serious time, or even lead to a DNF.
- If you’ve broken more than 2 spokes in the last 2000km, consider having your wheels rebuilt with new spokes and nipples so that you don’t break spokes during an important race.
- If you’re a heavy rider, 100kg+, chances are good that the rims that came on your bike are simply not strong enough. Upgrade to stronger rims, or use it as an excuse to have your dream set of wheels built, and keep the original wheels as spares.
- Go tubeless – even on your road bike.
Nothing slows you down more than a puncture, so give yourself the best chance of not flatting.
Here’s info you may need to know about going tubeless: https://wheelbuilder.co.za/3-ways-make-tubeless-better/
Your wheels are such an integral part of your cycling experience, but ideally you shouldn’t consciously notice them or think about them while out riding.
Having a meticulously built set of wheels, whether they were affordable or extravagant, should give you peace-of-mind when out riding.
Here’s wishing you a superb race season ahead! Don’t hesitate to reach out – even if just for some free advice.
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