Carbon wheels offer several benefits that cannot be obtained from traditional bicycle versions. This is especially so with the unique features of the 88mm wide-rim wheels.
Aerodynamic Design
In general, an 88mm carbon tubular wheelset would weigh more than either 60mm or 50mm tubular wheels. This is simply due to the extra depth of the rim. Such additional weight is only a minor inconvenience; since the extra depth of the tires of your bicycle gives it a greater aerodynamic benefit compared to the other two varieties.
According to studies conducted by Human Kinetics, the best aerodynamically designed wheels can develop an advantageous lift effect during light crosswinds. This helps counteract the drag forces that normally hinder cycling speed. Therefore, despite having more weight, wider tires offer an even greater advantage in improving cycling speed.
However, it may be better to fit 88mm carbon tubular wheels to the rear of your bike; while the 50 mm. the wheels can go in the front. This is due to the potential for directional instability caused by high winds. Wider 88mm carbon tubular rims are more easily destabilized due to their wider surface area, making it more difficult to maintain a straight line while cycling.
quick turn
Carbon bikes are designed with as little friction resistance as possible. The reputable manufacturers would incorporate the most innovative bearing technology to reduce the frictional force as much as possible. This provides a quick and effortless turning action, allowing riders to maximize minimal force. Considering that even the smallest improvements can spell victory in any race, that extra tweak to the bike’s bearings is a big factor.
Stability
Having an aerodynamically designed bicycle wheel with minimal friction force is not enough. The way this wheel is installed on your bike will also affect all of these other benefits. Correct or incorrect wheel fit on a bicycle will affect the most important aspect of stability. Without stability, you are very susceptible to serious accidents, especially during racing.
One key parameter is useful in determining the stability of your bike: the trail. This is a distance between the point where a projection of the steering axle touches the ground and a vertical point below the center of the bicycle wheel. According to Human Kinetics, the bikes would feel quite stable and manageable with spacing between 1.5″ and 2.5″.
Through your driving experience, you’ll find that a steeper steer axle with less travel produces quicker steering, but less stability while racing. On the other hand, if you go for a more trail ride with a steeper steerer, you will have a very stable bike. This is quite useful on uneven pavement and when going over potholes. However, you will have very slow speeds. This is why road bikes typically have 73° set steerer axles with 4.4cm travel, whereas mountain bikes typically have less raked 65° set steerer axles with wider travels. of 6.4 cm.
Determining the most suitable path and the inclination of the steering axis will depend on your personal feeling. This means that you may need to fit your bike wheels onto different bike frames, before you get the best fit.
