Tubular v Clincher aero wheels

NORTHERNER33

For "average" road conditions would clincher tyres be a better bet than aero? Is the weight disadvantage of clincher a price woth paying for durability? Will the clincher rims last longer than tubular? Any comments appreciated.

bahzob

To get best advice on this you need to be more precise about what your aims/expectations are.

That said, since this is a subject I'm looking into as well at the moment here's what I understand,, others will be sure to comment

If time trialling - you need the most aero wheels and the most aero wheels often use tubs so you mostly have have no choice.

If road racing: Tubs make a fair amount of sense since they are supposed to be a bit more robust than clinchers and their main practical disadvantage (time to change if punctured) isnt a factor. (You either get a spare wheel and a tow or its race over. )

Whats more the main benefit of tub wheels is that they their lighter rims help with rapid accelerations/changes of pace, which is pretty key in road racing.

However tub wheels are not cheap and crashes in road races happen so expect the occasional large bill.

For sportives: Clinchers almost certainly will be best for most.

For general riding: Clinchers most certainly best.