Originally Posted by
TiHabanero
Good question about the benefit of aero helmet vs. cost. Our shop did some real world testing of aero helmets. We found, regardless of brand or model, the aero helmet provided zero benefit in a 15 mile time trial. Aero wheels made a very big difference on the same course and it was determined that after one invests in wheels, then the other stuff like aero helmet, skin suit, etc. are next. Wheels should be first on the aero list for easily recognized gains.
Yeah, I'm sure that was a real robust test.
And tires/tubes make a bigger difference on speed than wheels. Just saying. Plus, seeing as how wheels are significantly more expensive than just about everything else, I'd put them way further down on the list for performance vs. $.
Bang for the buck:
1: tires/tubes
2: parts that will improve position (shorter cranks, narrow bars, longer stem)
3: clothing
4: helmet
5: wheels