Originally Posted by
Nixhex
The tubular wheels I'm seeing spec an external width (because obviously there is no internal cavity).
Regarding aero, I agree with what you're saying on shape but the abrupt change where the tire steps down to the wheel I would think would disturb the air, although maybe not significantly enough to matter. Not trying to come off as argumentative, just trying to get some people's opinions.
Go out and look at some tubular wheels with the tires already on them. Then find out the specs for both tire and rim. That might show you where you are right or wrong in your thinking.
Otherwise, I suppose the designers and engineers that have been doing this for years have some 'splaining to do, Lucy!