I have 2 observations and questions after watching this TdF Team Trial:
1. There are no deep front wheels (such as 808s, although something similar to 404s seem to be the norm). Why is this? Is this because they really aren't as beneficial as we think, or because they create issues with handling which are not ideal with the tight group formation that these guys are riding in? 2. No Zipps to be found (at least I haven't spotted any). Is this because Zipp doesn't care to partially sponsor a team, or because they really arent superior to other similar race wheels? Or maybe, riding in a group, the Zipps arent as superior?
I figure these teams have the money and research to do whatever they want, and I am curious about these 2 points. They all DO ride with the down tube water bottle, which is nice because that is a convenient bottle to keep on the bike...so, I am glad to see that.
No idea on #1 but I'm pretty sure there is a team or two that use ZIPPs. Saxo Bank maybe? Someone brought a Velonews to CDA and I was paging through it and it listed all the components the teams used. I also was shocked that only 1 or 2 teams used ZIPP. Having said that, there may be more teams that actually use them, they just take off the stickers. I've seen BMC use ZIPP wheels with EASTON stickers on them so it is possible.
Comments
1. There are no deep front wheels (such as 808s, although something similar to 404s seem to be the norm). Why is this? Is this because they really aren't as beneficial as we think, or because they create issues with handling which are not ideal with the tight group formation that these guys are riding in?
2. No Zipps to be found (at least I haven't spotted any). Is this because Zipp doesn't care to partially sponsor a team, or because they really arent superior to other similar race wheels? Or maybe, riding in a group, the Zipps arent as superior?
I figure these teams have the money and research to do whatever they want, and I am curious about these 2 points. They all DO ride with the down tube water bottle, which is nice because that is a convenient bottle to keep on the bike...so, I am glad to see that.
Anyone have any thoughts on #s 1 & 2?
Having said that, there may be more teams that actually use them, they just take off the stickers. I've seen BMC use ZIPP wheels with EASTON stickers on them so it is possible.