Specialized Turbo Vado SL: An Incredible E-Bike (User Club)

[stompandgo]

Well designed carbon anything takes advantage of the weave structure, providing rigidity in one dimension while allowing compliance in another. It;s the basis behind all carbon bicycle frames, and trickles down to wheels, stems, handlebars, saddles and saddle rails, etc. The compliance factor dampens vibration and increases comfort.

 

[Jeremy McCreary]

Well designed carbon wheels are stronger (relatively) and ride better (subjectively) than equivalent aluminum wheels.

Thanks — all valuable info! Even more reasons to start a lightening project at the wheels. Don't feel a great need for a more comfortable ride right now but wouldn't turn it down.

They are also more aero, so put that into your calculations.

Have no way to quantify the aero watts saved with deeper-section wheels. But with only 320 Wh of battery, the energy saved on longer, faster rides might be significant.

Prefer not to carry a range extender unless absolutely necessary — and so far plenty of main left on rides of up to 42 mi with moderate climbing.

I've been riding carbon wheels for so long now, I won't go back. The aluminum wheels that came with the Pinarello lasted one ride before I knew that I wanted to swap them out. High quality carbon wheels just ride better.

What would you consider a good durable middle-tier carbon wheel upgrade for the SL 1? How deep? (Would want to keep the 1 x 12 SRAM drivetrain as is.)

 

[Stefan Mikes]

The issue with carbon wheels is they have a rather low maximum system weight allowed. These also often come with fewer spokes, all to save their weight.

 

[DaveMatthews]

Not applicable to most here, but...

https://www.bikemag.com/mountain-bike-gear/carbon-vs-alloy-mountain-bike-wheels