Re: Topolino C19 Wheelset
01/23/08 01:05 AM (24.136.174.242)
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I weigh 192 lbs, and have the Topo AX3.0 with ceramic bearings on my Tetra 62. I have yet to be out coasted going downhill. And, I would say that I coast faster than 9 out of 10 bikes. The 1 of 10 will coast at virtually the same speed - though not faster. This is my take after numerous different club rides with a various cycling groups.
Having said this, I am currently running Michelin ProRace 23s which might also account for my perceived superior rolling performance. I previously had Mavic CXP-33 with 23 and, 28mm tires (not Michelins though) and, they definitely fell short of my current set-up in coasting ease - so it seems.
My AX3.0s feel very firm and light. There is a muted feel to them but, I just don't detect any "give" or compliance in them. Going up a hill, they are a pleasure. They seem to track well also, especially when leaning hard into a turn on a fast descent (ie., Blue Ridge Parkway).
The AX3.0's don't brake as well as the Mavic CXP-33 wheels. I suspect the slight wider Mavic rim (2mm) is the reason for this. More leverage on a wider rim, I guess. Also, my Topos sometimes exhibit a loud ticking sound from the ratchet pawl - as opposed to the normally refined and quiet ticking when coasting. A quick or forward pedal will often alleviate this but, I suspect that the pawl/ratchet is not perfectly stable inside the hub. I am currently trying to decide whether to send the rear wheel back and have this looked at while still under warranty. It isn't a big deal but, it isn't quite normal either. However, I don't believe there is any immediate risk involved.
Do the ceramic bearings make a difference? I don't know but, I would sort of guess not. The bearing steel in the ABEC 5 bearings is plenty hard. So much so that, I would think any further hardness is pretty much academic as far as a bicycle wheel is concerned. If I was buying another set, I would save the $200 and get the standard bearings. Frankly, I would say my superior coasting performance is due to the culmination of my weight, a perfectly aligned stiff bicycle frame, very low rolling resistance of the ProRace 2 tires, and perhaps my body shape, though at 6'2" 192 lbs and 56 years old I just don't see myself as aero.
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Re: Topolino C19 Wheelset
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