So ... what are the latest thoughts on carbon clinchers and rim brakes?

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01-17-22, 08:35 AM

#101

seypat

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Quote:

Originally Posted by datlas

It's worth revisiting this from 5 years ago. As someone who is still using rim brakes, I am sad to say it's probably true that rim-brake carbon fiber wheels are going to become an "orphan" technology soon. I doubt there will be much new investment, as most cyclists that are invested enough in the sport to buy new CF rims are almost always going to be running disc brakes.

I expect the existing technology to be around for many years, but don't think we will see any improvements on what we have.

Comments?

There are plenty of recent Average Joe real world videos comparing the two. I guess it boils down to if you think the advantages/disadvantages both on the bike and at the water cooler are worth it. Seems like you're around 140lbs. It might be worth it to you. The weight difference might matter and the reduced wet braking might not. I on the other hand, am 5'8" and around 200lbs. The advantages/disadvantages would be reverse for me. I don't know how windy it is in PA, either. Deep carbon wheels might turn a tall, wispy/willowy fellow into a kite on a windy day.

01-17-22, 08:58 AM

#102

seypat

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Quote:

Originally Posted by datlas

BTW, I've ridden the 75 or 100 route of this ride every year except for the 2020(cancelled) on various vintage steel bikes with their matching brake systems. Even rode MAFAC Racers a couple of time in rain. Hit speeds of 50+ on some of the descents. Never really had a problem. It gets a little hairy in the rain sometimes. I don't know how a carbon wheelset would've done in the same conditions. The heat dissipation might have been a problem.
You should take a look at that ride. It'd be right in your wheelhouse.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29030456

https://www.ymcacva.org/storming-thunder-ridge

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01-21-22, 09:55 PM

#103

smashndash

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I'm light, I race and I live in CA. You'd think I'd be a huge proponent of rim brakes. And I am... for people on a budget. There's still no arguing that a rim brake bike is cheaper for a certain tier of performance than a disc brake one.

But after living with carbon rim brakes for a couple years, I'd never buy another carbon rim brake clincher for general riding again. I see cycling as a very, very slow motorsport and having brakes that just feel like crap (dry, wet, doesn't matter) makes me feel icky. I like having powerful, responsive, consistent brakes. Not because I need them, but because that's something I enjoy. The same way you might enjoy a light bike or supple tires. I think that dimension of disc brakes doesn't get talked about enough.