Subject: RE: Wheels for hilly course? I rode my tubular 999's at Lake Placid this year (on my road bike). They are actually lighter wheels than my Ksyrium SSC SL clinchers. My total bike weight (without my full bottle and spare tire) was only 14.9 lbs. Climbed great and had the advantage of full on race wheels for the downhills and flatter sections. The difference in going 1080 or 808 on the rear will be negligable from an aero standpoint. You may as well go full on disc at that point. I've always said that a 606 set (808 rear, 404 front) is one of the best all around compromises for wheels. Pro cyclists run 404's or 303's in many of their races, regardless of the terrain because of the aero benefit. Having a deeper section front throws the crosswinds into play, especially on the descents. You have more reaction to wind with the front wheel than you do the rear, so a deep front may end up being sketchy if you are doing a 40+ mph descent and get hit with a crosswind. I would probably recommend an all around set like the 606 combo if you are looking for the best of both worlds on a hilly course. |