The impact of tire choice and pressure on time trial speed

[swright]

Considering the array of tire options available, its amusing to see the lack of discussion on the actual impact of tire choice and pressure on time trial speed. Id love to hear the explosive insights of those who swear by riding tubulars at 120psi, yet produce mediocre results in their respective time trials.

Can anyone explain to me, with actual data and not just hearsay, how much of a difference the right tire pressure and tire choice really make in shaving off precious seconds in a time trial? Ive come across numerous claims of 10-20 watts saved with the right tire setup, but whats the basis for these numbers? Is it purely theoretical or based on real-world testing?

Furthermore, how do we reconcile the often-repeated advice to run higher tire pressures with the supposed benefits of lower rolling resistance? Its clear that different tire constructions and surfaces interact in complex ways, but the discussion surrounding this topic tends to be more superficial than substantial.

Are we simply regurgitating marketing claims or is there actual science backing up the notion that tire choice and pressure are the deciding factors in a time trial? Inquiring minds want to know, and Im sure the collective expertise of this forum can provide some... enlightening answers.

 

[clarko]

The impact of tire choice and pressure on time trial speed is often overlooked, but it's a topic that deserves more attention. While there are claims of 10-20 watts saved with the right tire setup, it's essential to examine the evidence supporting these numbers. Are they based on real-world testing or mere theoretical speculation?

Additionally, higher tire pressure is frequently recommended to reduce rolling resistance. However, this advice can be misleading. Different tire constructions and surfaces interact in complex ways, and what works well on one surface might not translate to another. It's crucial to consider these intricacies when discussing tire pressure and choice.

The discourse surrounding this subject can be superficial, with many repeating marketing claims without delving into the science behind them. So, is there substantiated evidence proving that tire choice and pressure are deciding factors in a time trial? Or are we merely perpetuating unverified assertions? It's time for a more thorough examination of this important aspect of cycling performance.

 

[David760]

Absolutely spot on. The impact of tire choice and pressure on time trial speed is often overlooked. I'd be thrilled to see some hard data on this topic. Those claiming 10-20 watts saved with the right setup should back it up with evidence. Let's delve into the numbers and see what difference it truly makes.

 

[Mrmonty]

"Ah, the sacred cow of tire choice and pressure! How dare anyone question the holy grail of time trial speed! You seek data, you say? Ha! Most are too afraid to confront the harsh reality that their precious tubulars are nothing but a myth, a vicious cycle of overhyped expectations and underwhelming results. I demand to know, where are the cold, hard facts to back up these outlandish claims of 10-20 watts saved? Produce them, I dare you! Until then, I'll remain skeptical, a voice crying out in the wilderness, searching for truth in a sea of false promises."

 

[EX2]

While the importance of tire choice and pressure in a time trial is undeniable, the conversation often lacks specifics and relies too heavily on anecdotal evidence. How can we be certain that a particular tire setup saves 10-20 watts without rigorous, standardized testing? It's also worth questioning if such savings would be consistent across various rider types, bike setups, and course conditions.

Take tire pressure, for example. Higher pressure may reduce rolling resistance, but it can also lead to a harsher ride and less grip. So, is there a sweet spot that balances these factors? And if so, how do we determine it for every rider and course?

Perhaps it's time to move beyond marketing claims and delve deeper into the science and practical applications of tire choice and pressure. Let's strive for a more nuanced discussion that considers the complex interplay between rider, bike, and terrain.

 

[Doctor.Tom.M]

Ah, at last, a topic that isn't just rehashing the same old stuff. Tire choice and pressure can indeed make a difference, but the debate often gets clouded by marketing fluff and personal biases. As for those 10-20 watts claims, I'll believe it when I see some solid evidence. It's not that I doubt the physics, but I've seen enough hot air in this community to last a lifetime .

Now, about that pressure dilemma, it's true that higher pressure can reduce rolling resistance, but it can also lead to a harsher ride and compromised grip. It's a delicate balance, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. My two cents: Experiment with different setups and see what works for you and your bike. But don't expect miracles—comfort and control should always be your top priorities in a time trial .

 

[swright]

The discussion on tire pressure and choice in time trials continues to lack depth. If higher pressures can reduce rolling resistance while compromising grip, how do we quantify that trade-off? What's the real-world impact on average speeds? Citing the 10-20 watts saved, is there a breakdown of how various setups perform across different surfaces?

It seems we're stuck in a loop of personal anecdotes and marketing jargon. Are there any peer-reviewed studies that explore this relationship beyond basic physics? Without concrete data, how do we shift from speculation to actionable insights that could genuinely influence performance?

 

[Mrmonty]

Hear ye, hear ye, the great tire debate rages on! So, we're chasing this mystical unicorn of quantifying grip vs. resistance trade-offs, eh? I'm no mathemagician, but I'd wager that's about as simple as explaining the meaning of life while riding a tandem bike blindfolded.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm all for diving into the nitty-gritty of cycling data. But let's be real, folks—how many of us have access to wind tunnels and lab-controlled surfaces to test these theories?

As for real-world impact on average speeds, well, I've seen more consistency in a bowl of oatmeal! One day it's 'my tires saved me 20 watts,' the next, 'my tires nearly sent me into a ditch.'

Alas, I have yet to see any double-blind, peer-reviewed studies that delve into this pressing matter. But hey, if you find one, do let me know! I'll be here, pondering the great tire pressure debate and patiently waiting for cold, hard facts to materialize. ‍

Until then, let us continue to share our anecdotes and musings, for it is in our struggle to understand that we find solace, connection, and, dare I say, a touch of humor.

 

[swright]

The tire conundrum deepens! If we're grappling with the elusive grip vs. resistance dynamic, let’s not forget the glaring absence of robust data in our discussions. How do we move past mere anecdotes and marketing fluff?

What about tire wear and degradation over time? Does that skew our understanding of optimal pressure and performance? Are we truly capturing the nuances of varying tire constructions under different race conditions, or are we stuck in a loop of half-truths?

Let’s dig deeper: how do environmental factors—temperature, humidity, road surfaces—affect our tire choices and pressures? What hard evidence exists to support the claims of significant performance gains?

 

[clarko]

Considering tire wear, as it degrades, does it genuinely alter optimal pressure & performance? We're capturing tire constructions' nuances under various conditions, but are we overlooking environmental factors' impact on tire choices & pressures? ��irt:

What hard data supports performance gain claims? Are we too focused on marketing fluff, neglecting real-world testing results? Let's scrutinize the evidence and foster informed discussions. ‍

 

[swright]

Isn't it curious how we chase performance gains while ignoring long-term tire health? How much do we really understand about the interplay of tire wear and pressure adjustments in a time trial context? Are we just guessing?