Aero Helmet, Zipp Wheels and speed

If you want to have Zipps and aero helmet go for it.

I have both and raced my IM with my Zipps but did not use my aero helmet. If you do not hold your head in the right position it may actually cause more drag. Most folks would be hard pressed to prove if it helped them or not so assumes it helped but do they really know? I train an race with power meter so know my power output, time and pace. I found I was putting out more power but was slower with my aero helmet than without. The conclusion was made that I probably hold my head slightly off so it was causing me more drag than help you.

Man, first, congrats on dumping the 200 extra lbs>

As far as the race mechanics, I tried to check your logs to see what speed you're carrying on the bike, but no luck....so I'm working off limited information.

But in general, 'buying speed' is a personal choice. Will an aero helmet make you faster?  Yes. Will Zipp wheels make you faster?  Yes (provided you're riding something inferior). How much faster?  We can't tell. What we do know is that the slower you are going, the less benefit there is.....and that's about where the facts end.

So to address your original question...is it rediculous?  I'd answer that the only person you need to answer to is you. Period. And if crossing in 17 is that very important, I think you're on solid ground with any decision you make to get yourself faster.

x2 !!

If you just do the simple math....you make the bike cutoff and can continually walk the marathon (with a jog or 2 for good measure) and make it under 17hrs.

That's the beauty of the IM...anyone can do it as long as their legs aren't left on the bike course.

think about it...a 7 hour marathon...that's walking pace!!  great news huh? 

You could always rent wheels for about $150 for the weekend instead of buying a set.

Yes if you make the bike cut off you can walk the run but need to be sort of quick about it and finish but running a few miles helps. My run split was 6:30 and I did my run/walk thing first 7-8 miles 4'/1' until my asthma kicked up and I had a hard time breathing. I'm not a fast walker. First 6 miles I was at 11:45 m/m pace.  

When it comes to looking ridiculous most of us middle aged triathletes in our spandex skin suits have already jumped the shark Do whatever is going to make the race more enjoyable for you.

Have a look at the Louis Garneau Chrono as it is probably the most cost effective speed you can buy. It's reasonably aero, inexpensive, and has a short tail that should not slow you down when you are looking down. The short tail also makes it look less geeky. I will be wearing mine at the back of the pack in FL

X2

http://www.racedaywheels.com/home.html

These guys will be at the race renting wheels on site. If you fall in love with them, buy them then.