Carbon clincher question

[Monkspeed]

So for arguments sake take planet x 52mm carbon clincher wheels. As a set they weight in at 1796g and they are not one off's either, i've noticed other brands with similar products also weight in at similar values.

Now take for example normal wheels like Fulcrum 5 which weight 1760g but cost over £200 less.

So why would someone pay £400 for a set of wheels if they weight heavier than a "normal" set and also cost a significant amount more as well?

Thanks.

DISCLAIMER: Just to make it clear that I am not having a dig at Planet-X gear. As I have noted above, other manufacturers of similar products also charge around the same and have a similar weight values.

 

[zizou]

The planet x have the aero fairing so its not just about the weight.

 

[Monkspeed]

So the drop of the rim is to provide a better aerodynamic profile?

Would I be right in guessing that they would no be so practical out on the road with crosswinds etc, and it is more track racing orientated?

Cheers.

 

[VamP]

Of course aero wheels are heavier than low profile wheels. It is possible to build low profile carbon wheels sub 1000g.

There is a fashion for aero wheels at the moment, but real data on the benefits is relatively scarce. Their biggest advantage lies in TTs, they get used a lot in road racing, and there is a trickle down effect to sportive etc use.

As in all things performance related, there is a law of diminishing returns, and everyone has to judge for themselves what equipment they want to use.


Disclaimer: I use alloy low profile alloy wheels for all of my riding, including racing.