Are Aero Wheels Worth The Money?

You’ve been saving up to buy that new bicycle you want, and now you’re deciding whether to upgrade to some aero wheels. 

They look so nice, but are also expensive! Should you splurge on those new wheels, or should you settle for the affordable ones that don’t look as cool?

Having the right wheels can be the difference between racing to the top of a climb and walking the rest of the way down. 

Finding the right set of wheels is an art and science, though, as each rider requires different materials, designs and prices to meet their specific needs. 

Aero wheels are supposed to be faster than regular ones because they cut through the wind better, but how much faster? And, more importantly, are they worth the extra cost?

Let’s dive into it!

What Are Aero Wheels?

Aero wheels are a type of wheel that is designed to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics while cycling. 

They are typically made with deeper rims, higher spoke counts, and smoother surfaces than traditional wheel designs. Aero wheels are commonly found on road bikes, although some mountain bikes also feature them.

These wheels are often considered a performance upgrade for cyclists looking to increase speed, as they can help cut through the air more efficiently. However, they are not without their downsides. 

Aesthetically speaking, there is something unpleasant about seeing an otherwise gorgeous bike adorned with plain black aero wheels. You may also be limited with space in your garage or home. 

Why Do Aero Wheels Matter?

When optimizing a bicycle’s performance, aerodynamic drag is a major factor. 

Aerodynamic drag is the resistance created when air moves against a cyclist’s body and bike components as they move through the air. Investing in a set of aero wheels is the best way to mitigate aerodynamic drag.

Aero wheels are designed with a shape that allows air to move more freely around them, reducing drag and allowing the cyclist to travel faster. Aero wheels come in many shapes, from flat disks to deep-dish designs. 

Most feature a wide profile rim and hubs, which reduce turbulence and minimize drag. In addition, aero wheels are usually made of lightweight materials, increasing the bike’s speed.

It’s important to note that not all aero wheels are created equal; some offer more aerodynamic benefits than others, depending on the rider’s weight and riding style. 

Before purchasing a set of aero wheels, it’s important to research and determine which wheels will work best for your needs. 

The main advantage of investing in a set of aero wheels is their increased speed, but it’s up to you to justify if it’s worth the extra bucks. 

If you are looking to maximize your speed and performance on the bike, then aero wheels may be worth the investment. However, investing in a lighter wheelset may be a better option if you aren’t looking to race or compete.

But, What Are the Drawbacks of Aero Wheels? 

Aero wheels have become increasingly popular among cyclists looking to save time and energy. While they offer several benefits, they can also have drawbacks that could make them less than ideal for some riders. 

One of the main issues with aero wheels is the added weight. Aero wheels are typically heavier than regular wheels due to the increased material needed for the aerodynamic shape. 

This extra weight can make them slower to accelerate and harder to handle when making turns. They also require more effort to maintain speed when riding over hills or inclines. 

Aero wheels also tend to be more expensive than regular wheels. The added cost of the aerodynamic features can put them out of reach for many cyclists. 

Additionally, due to their increased complexity, aero wheels may require more maintenance than regular wheels and may not be as durable in the long run. 

Finally, it’s important to consider the terrain you’ll be riding on when deciding if aero wheels are worth it. The aerodynamic benefits are most pronounced on flat roads and terrain, so if you are doing a lot of hill climbing or off-roading, regular wheels may be the better option. 

Ultimately, it’s up to a rider to decide if the benefits of aero wheels outweigh the drawbacks. If you plan on doing mostly flat road riding and don’t mind spending a little extra money, then aero wheels could be a great choice. But if you do a lot of hill climbing or plan to ride off-road, regular wheels may be the way to go.

How Much Time Can an Aero Wheelset Save You?

When considering the cost of aero wheels, it’s important to note that they generally cost significantly more than standard wheels. However, they can offer many advantages over regular wheels, such as improved aerodynamic performance and reduced rolling resistance. 

So, how much time can an aero wheelset save you? Well, it depends on a few things. If you are riding on flat terrain with light wind, an aero wheelset can save you around one minute per 10 kilometers or 6 minutes over an hour.

On hilly terrain, an aero wheelset can help you save up to two minutes per 10 kilometers or 12 minutes over an hour. It’s also important to consider how much time an aero wheelset can save you when riding in the wind.

Depending on the wheels’ size, the rims’ depth, and other factors, an aero wheelset can help you save up to 10 minutes over an hour when riding with a headwind.

On the other hand, when riding with a tailwind, an aero wheelset may provide little advantage as the wind can provide enough additional speed to make up for any difference in aerodynamic performance.

It’s also important to note that the wheelset’s weight also matters. Heavier wheels are less efficient than lighter ones, so if you have the budget, look for an aero wheelset that is as light as possible. 

How Aero Can You Go?

When aiming to minimize resistance, the primary place to start is with oneself. As a cyclist, one holds greater mass than the bicycle itself and may account for 70 to 80 percent of its forward profile along with the rider. 

It follows that bending over closer to the bike will substantially lessen frontal area and drag; however, diminishing returns arise sooner than expected when excessively slouching.

A study conducted by Barry and his colleagues at Monash University studied the performance of cyclists whilst in various hand and body positions, cycling against a wind of 28 mph – meant to imitate the speed of competitive road races and triathlons. 

It was found that the most difficult position for cyclists to maintain was the traditional upright riding with their hands on the hoods, which took 430 watts to overcome aerodynamic drag. 

However, bending down into a more aerodynamic position with straight arms saved some energy as it only required 417 watts. By decreasing the angle of the elbows and crouching down even further, more energy was conserved, requiring 385 watts. 

Incredibly, the most aerodynamically advantageous position resulting in a 13.4 percent decrease in power output, was having one’s hands on handlebar hoods with forearms parallel to the floor needing 372 watts.

A rider producing 300 watts on a 40-kilometer (25-mile) time trial could save almost three minutes from their overall time by making a basic alteration in posture, such as curving the arms and lowering the upper body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aero wheels worth it on a Tesla?

Aero wheels can be an excellent option for a Tesla. They are designed to reduce wind resistance and thus increase the bike’s aerodynamics and efficiency. This can result in an overall smoother experience. Of course, you should always weigh the pros and cons before investing in aero wheels, as they come at a premium.

How do aero wheels help when cycling?

Aerodynamic wheels can have benefits for cyclists too! Cycling requires a lot of effort from your legs, so anything that improves your power output will make riding easier. Better aerodynamics will mean you’re faster and less fatigued while cycling. Your body will also generate less heat while riding with aero wheels which may mean fewer incidents of muscle fatigue or cramping after long rides.

At what speed do aero helmets make a difference? 

When it comes to aero helmets, there is no specific speed at which they make a difference. Any reduction in drag that you get from an aero helmet will have a benefit, regardless of the speed you are traveling at. Even if you’re riding at a leisurely pace, having an aero helmet on will mean you will use less energy to cover the same distance.

Can you ride long distances on an aero bike? 

Aero bikes typically require less pedaling input than traditional bikes due to their increased aerodynamics. As such, they’re perfect for riding long distances. You’ll find them popular among many touring cyclists because of this capability. 

Are aero wheels worth the money?

Investing in aero wheels can be an excellent way to get the most experience of your ride. They can help you save money on fuel, make your cycling easier, and provide an aerodynamic advantage. 

Should you buy lightweight or aero wheels? 

Ultimately, weight is one of the main factors to consider when making any purchase decision. That said, some riders may prefer the lighter weight of lightweight wheels despite their lack of aerodynamics compared to aero wheels. 

Conclusion 

With all being said to this point, it’s clear that they may be worth the money for some riders, depending on their specific needs. 

Aero wheels can provide an aerodynamic boost for cyclists who want to gain an edge in races and time trials. On the other hand, traditional wheels may be a better option for recreational cyclists looking for a comfortable and efficient ride. 

Ultimately, it comes down to understanding your own riding needs and choosing the right set of wheels accordingly.