Which should you choose between low and high profile carbon bike wheel set?
Carbon wheelsets have a different significance for cyclists, and the importance of upgrading alone is worth investing in. If the budget is limited and you want to experience the fun of bike modification,then choosing the wheelset for modification is the most enjoyable. "I believe that novice bicycle enthusiasts are not unfamiliar with this statement, and there is still some truth to it. The reasons are mostly to make it easier to climb steep slopes, ride faster on flat roads, or to think that changing wheelsets is the most satisfying.
At present, the carbon road wheel sets on the market are mainly divided into three categories: below 40mm: low carbon bike wheel sets (climbing wheel sets); 40mm-50mm: middle profile wheel set (comprehensive height); Above 50mm: High profile wheel set (wind breaking wheel set). Nowadays, there are not only numerous brands of wheelsets, but also unique styles and appearances, and prices are becoming increasingly affordable. In recent years, in addition to weight, aerodynamic efficiency has also received more attention. Therefore, many Tour de France players choose medium and high frame wheels as their first choice at the Grand Prix, such as Boccacha and Rogelic.The Bola 40~50mm carbon wheelset is suitable for various riding scenarios such as climbing, descending, and sprinting. Whether on flat roads or rugged mountain roads, they can provide excellent performance.
Lightweight may not be everything, but it really rides great!
When it comes to upgrading, the goal is nothing more than lightweighting. The reduction in weight, even if it is only 2-300g, can make it easier for riders to face uphill climbing, and the control of the bike body is also improved when riding on flat roads. Therefore, "lightweighting" is the goal pursued by cycling enthusiasts.
Lightweight carbon fiber bike wheelset replacement not only reduces the feeling, but also has a great advantage: there are many brands of wheelsets, and products are easy to find and choose from. Compared to replacing handlebars, seat cushions, transmission systems, etc., carbon wheelsets are not limited and can be easily disassembled and replaced at any time. They can be matched according to the riding terrain of the day, which is convenient and practical. Upgrading them also allows for a better understanding of one's own riding needs. Depending on the situation,you can switch from metal to carbon fiber or from high to low profile carbon bike wheels.
Generally, the wheel profile height of low wheelsets is below 40mm, pursuing ultimate lightweight and required rigidity, which is more suitable for specialized use in climbing long and steep slopes. Of course, it can also make it easier for bike enthusiasts with limited leg strength to reach the summit when climbing slopes. Due to the insufficient cruising and stability of the climbing carbon wheelset, it is generally recommended to consider the second pair of wheelsets, unless you are a cycling enthusiast who loves climbing.
High profile carbon bicycle wheel set (also known as pneumatic wheel set)
If upgrading is to increase aerodynamic effects, you can basically choose a setting with a wheel height of 50mm or more. The height of the carbon bike rim, aerodynamic shape, number of spokes, and weaving method are all factors that affect aerodynamic performance. These factors have their own design considerations in different wheel set brands.
So, if you can maintain a cruising speed of 38Km/h or above most of the time while cycling, and ride mostly on flat roads, then a pair of high wheelsets may be more suitable for your needs. Generally, the height of pneumatic carbon wheelset is above 50mm, which has certain requirements for leg strength and is not suitable for climbing long and steep slopes. The commonly used height for large highway wheel sets is in the range of 50mm-65mm. If you occasionally climb downhill, it is recommended to choose a wheel set with a height of about 50mm; Ironman and time trial usually use wheels with a diameter of over 60mm, or even fully enclosed disc wheel. In addition, there is an exception. For heavy riders, it is recommended to choose pneumatic wheel sets with higher overall rigidity. If the weight is close to 100kg and the carbon rim height exceeds 60mm, a relatively high rigidity wheel set may be a better choice. Do not consider climbing wheel sets.
Integrated height carbon bike wheelset (multi-purpose carbon wheel set)
It is a product between the pneumatic wheelset and the climbing wheel set, and the most obvious feature can only be described as "harmony". Comprehensive performance; Most profiles have a height between 40mm-50mm, which not only has a certain aerodynamic effect, but also has a certain climbing performance, making them products between pneumatic wheel sets and climbing wheelset. Aluminum alloy wheels are another matter. So: if you usually go anywhere, ride long distances, even on flat roads, and even climb hills. So, a pair of wheels with high overall height may be more suitable for balancing your diverse riding requirements. And for those who are only planning to buy one pair of carbon fiber wheelsets, a multi-purpose wheelset is the best choice, as the routes you may ride are very diverse. Examples such as Bola's newly launched 40/45 and wave 45/50 wheelsets are good.
What kind of carbon wheelset is suitable?
Eventually, we still need to return to the rider themselves and choose the appropriate carbon wheel set based on their own needs, which is the correct solution. If your goal is to participate in mountain climbing events such as Grand Slam, then pure climbing carbon bike wheels are more suitable; On the contrary, if it is a long-distance self challenge, the high wheel set will be the first choice. But if the budget is limited, I personally recommend an all-around carbon wheelset with a bike rim height of 40 to 50. After all, such a height can perform well on flat roads and hills, and the weight is just right, suitable for any knight.
There is no absolute answer to the choice of wheelset, both low and high profile have their own advantages and disadvantages. Before buying, it is worth borrowing a test wheel to experience the difference between the two. It is not too late to actually feel the difference between the two before buying. But if you are a mature adult, don't doubt buying everything