#!markdown
@Dirk
Gotcha on the opposite directions thing. Like anything else, it's a tradeoff.
Fewer paired spokes requires a stronger [heavier?] rim to handle the higher
load per spoke pair. OTOH, using lots of spokes would let you use a
weaker/lighter rim [and potentially lighter spokes] 'cause the distance
between spokes at the rim would be so short, and the resultant stress lower
per spoke. The fact that most wheels use an extruded aluminum rim limits what
you can do in terms of removing excess material, allowing one to keep strength
whilst reducing weight. Perhaps 3D printing will yield a solution!
With regard to the wider rims, IMHO they are a wee bit on the narrow side.
Personal preference of course. To me, it looks like they're playing catch-up…
Nov. 19, 2013, 6:27 p.m. - PinkRobe
#!markdown @Dirk Gotcha on the opposite directions thing. Like anything else, it's a tradeoff. Fewer paired spokes requires a stronger [heavier?] rim to handle the higher load per spoke pair. OTOH, using lots of spokes would let you use a weaker/lighter rim [and potentially lighter spokes] 'cause the distance between spokes at the rim would be so short, and the resultant stress lower per spoke. The fact that most wheels use an extruded aluminum rim limits what you can do in terms of removing excess material, allowing one to keep strength whilst reducing weight. Perhaps 3D printing will yield a solution! With regard to the wider rims, IMHO they are a wee bit on the narrow side. Personal preference of course. To me, it looks like they're playing catch-up…