kar-buhn wheels
Noun, Noun
Carbon wheels are bicycle wheels made from carbon fiber.
Example usage: I upgraded to carbon wheels for my triathlon bike.
Most used in: Triathlons and other cycling competitions around the world.
Most used by: Professional and amateur triathletes and cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Carbon clinchers, Carbon rims, Carbon tubulars, Carbon tubeless,
What are Carbon Wheels?
Carbon wheels are a type of wheel made from carbon fiber. They are incredibly lightweight, strong and stiff, making them popular among cyclists. Carbon wheels are often seen as a performance upgrade to traditional alloy wheels, as they can provide faster acceleration and improved handling.
Compared to alloy wheels, carbon wheels are much lighter. This can make a major difference in performance, especially when climbing hills or accelerating. The stiffness of the wheel can also provide greater control when cornering, allowing you to take sharper turns without losing speed.
Carbon wheels can also be more aerodynamic than alloy wheels. This is because the shape of the wheel is more consistent, with fewer flat surfaces that can disrupt airflow. This can lead to improved speed and efficiency, as well as improved handling in windy conditions.
Despite their advantages, carbon wheels are not for everyone. They can be expensive and require more maintenance than alloy wheels. Additionally, their stiffness can lead to a harsher ride, which can be uncomfortable for some riders. In general, carbon wheels are best suited for experienced cyclists who are looking for a performance upgrade.
The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Carbon Wheels'
The term 'Carbon Wheels' first appeared in the early 1990s, when carbon fiber began to be used in the production of bicycle wheels. Carbon fiber, a lightweight, strong material, was first used in the aerospace industry in the 1950s. It was quickly adopted by the cycling industry for its properties of strength and light weight.
In the 1990s, carbon fiber was used to make bicycle wheels, and the term 'Carbon Wheels' was first used to refer to these wheels. The popularity of carbon wheels has grown significantly since then, and they are now used in a variety of cycling disciplines, from road racing to mountain biking.
Today, carbon wheels are seen as a top-tier option for cyclists looking for the best performance. Carbon wheels are lightweight and strong, providing superior aerodynamics and handling. They are also more expensive than traditional wheels, but for many cyclists, the performance benefits are worth the cost.
The term 'Carbon Wheels' is now used throughout the cycling world to refer to wheels made from carbon fiber. It is a testament to the success of this material that it has become one of the most popular materials for cycling wheels.
