With the advancement of carbon fiber materials, road bike wheel depths have changed a lot in recent years. In the past, most wheels had a smaller depth to decrease the weight of the wheels. Right now, with the advancement of carbon fiber wheels, riders can choose a larger depth for their wheels without worrying too much about weight!

However，what depth to ride on, and what are the pros and cons? The answer isn’t so simple, as it depends on your riding style. To simplify your decision, we’ll take a look at the three S’s: Stability, Stiffness, Speed.

Stability: U-Shape Or V-Shape Profile

Wheel stability is primarily affected by rim depth and profile. The deeper the rim profile, the better the aerodynamics of the wheel, however, the trade-off is that the deeper the profile, the more likely it is to be knocked over by crosswinds. For lighter riders (under 150 pounds) this can be a hindrance.

Aero rims come in two profiles: V-shaped and U-shaped, which have been determined to provide better aerodynamic performance and are less affected by crosswinds.

Stiffness: Efficiency Or Comfort?

Nothing has a greater effect on wheel stiffness than rim depth—deeper rims are generally stiffer and more responsive to pedaling forces. This makes deeper rims more efficient because less power is dispersed when the wheel flexes. However, shallower wheels are more comfortable to ride, especially on rough surfaces, as the rims absorb more bumps and vibrations. If you're a commuter riding rough or gravel roads, you might prefer a lighter profile.

Speed: Aero Or Lightweight Rims?

Shallower rims, while lighter, are not necessarily faster. If you're looking to buy a faster wheelset, consider spin weight, aerodynamics, and system weight.

Lighter or more aerodynamic? Deeper profiled rims are more aerodynamic but heavier, while shallower rims are lighter, more comfortable and easier to handle. Having said that, the benefits of aerodynamic rims often offset the marginal weight gain from a deeper profile. If you're riding or racing, prioritizing aerodynamics becomes critical. An independent engineer did some aerodynamic testing to find the fastest bike wheels on deep rims, with the DCH RX55L rims rated highly.

Inertia or rotational weight is also important. In general, when both wheels are the exact same weight, the wheel with the greater weight percentage at the hub (less inertia) will accelerate more easily. It will feel faster than a wheel with more weight (higher inertia) at the rim. Wheel weight is far less important than you might think of a road wheelset.

What Depth Is Suitable For You?

Now consider these variables:

1.The terrain you’re riding

2.Rider weight

3.Cycling experience and skill

4.Riding event types

Choosing the Right Rim Depth You should choose as many rims as possible that are comfortable and inspiring, not the fastest possible rim depth. Seasoned triathletes might opt for 88mm-deep rims, as typically the riding portion of a triathlon takes place on relatively straight and flat routes, with few (if any) group rides. However, if the same rider is preparing for their first Gran Fondo, they may be best suited for 35mm deep rims, as shallower rims will be more comfortable and easier to control in tight teams. When asking yourself the four variables above, consider the 3 S's (stability, stiffness, speed) again and you'll know what to choose.

If you have your own ideas, please contact us(sales1@gofastbicycle.com) to discuss and provide you with customized services.