Home› Racing Forum 🏎

RENT WHEELS?

jelmermdjelmermd
in Racing Forum 🏎

 trying to decide if it's worth it to rent race wheels for IM FL.  I had some HED 3 tubulars, but I'm drinking the power kool-aid now so that's out.  I could put the cover on my rear but have a vanilla front, and some folks worry about the windy course.  I can rent a pair of 404's or 808's with a PT but don't know if it's worth it.  Any suggestions?  If you think the answer is yes, should I stick with the 404 for the front due to wind issues?   

Thanks for anybody's input on this.

Comments

  • Coach RichCoach Rich
    James,
    You should rent a front race wheel...but only if you already have an aerobottle and have addressed the good ideas in the Bike/Bottle Setup Thread.

    Do you have power now? If yes, just slap a wheelcover on that PT wheel. If no, you don't have enough time between now and the race to learn how to use it. But see me after the race about getting you into a Powertap or Quarq, if you're interested in that.
  • jelmermdjelmermd

     Thanks Coach R.  I have been using a PT on the HED Belgium wheel you recommended and I the cover you recommended.  I'm using an aerobottle and a Speedfil combo.   I'll follow your advice and get just the front wheel then.  Do you think a 176 pound guy like me would notice any wind issues with an 808 vs a 404?

  • Coach RichCoach Rich

    In my experience, the effect of crosswinds is very individual, ie, some athletes get wigged by being blown around a bit, regardless of size, others don't mind at all. I think you should base your decision on your personal confidence level.

    That said...I wouldn't call Florida a crazy windy race? Maybe others with more direct IMFL experience can chime in?

  • Al TruscottAl Truscott

    I don't remember Florida as windy. Certainly not like Cozumel or Kona. A 404 (or even 808) for someone James' size should be just fine. And a wheel cover in the rear, of course. 

  • GMAN 19030GMAN 19030
    There were sections of the course last year in which the headwind kind of sucked. I think it was when riding in the northwest direction. That stated, there wasn't much riding in that direction. Crosswinds were of little to no issue last year with the exception of the wind whipping through the condos on Front Beach.
  • Mark RobertsMark Roberts
    James,

    I've done Florida 3 times and while there is always some wind, especially headwind during the last 10 miles, the cross winds are really not a factor. You would be fine with the 808's, but the wheel cover with the 808 or Hed 3 front will be fine for that course.
Sign In or Register to comment.