hey would me getting a lighter bike like carbon fiber bike help me deal with high...

  • Thread starter Thread starter Davd C
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Davd C

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...and heavy winds like 25-40? mph is lighter bikes better in the wind than a heavy bike
 
Wind resistance is your biggest enemy not weight. On a level ground and depending on the speed it takes 70-90% of your energy to overcome wind resistance.

http://exploratorium.com/cycling/aerodynamics1.html
 
Weight is not really an issue in wind. What is best is being able to get into a more aerodynamic position. Aerodynamic bikes are only good for less windy conditions because in a strong crosswind it is hard to control your bike. I think the best thing to do is to get some drop bars and ride in the drops when you are fighting a strong wind.
 
I'm not sure if it's my imagination, but sometimes I feel like I'm at a disadvantage on a carbon bike in the wind. My Aluminum framed bike gets blown a bit in a strong crosswind, but sometimes my carbon bike feels like it will fly off the road from under me. The light bikes affect acceleration and climbing mostly...overall calorie burn or work load is probably down too for a longer ride, but not by too much. Wind resistance is the enemy, not so much gravity.
 
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